Part-Time Student: Assistant Market Farmer - 83119

Founded in 1986, St. Charles Community College (SCC) has a reputation as one of the best two-year colleges in the state of Missouri. SCC's service area includes a six-county region with a population exceeding 540,000. The college's main campus in Cottleville has won architectural awards for its innovative, contemporary design. The Dardenne Creek Campus features the Center for Healthy Living and the Field to Table Institute. Opening Fall 2025, the Innovation West Campus in Wentzville will house the Regional Workforce Innovation Center. SCC is a leader in delivering high-quality education in a state-of-the-art learning environment, focusing on academic excellence, student success, workforce advancement, and life-long learning within a global society.

About the role

SCC is seeking a part-time Student Assistant Market Farmer to support the on-site gardens and the operation and maintenance of SCC's freight farm, an innovative vertical farming system designed to provide fresh produce year-round. This role involves hands-on work with hydroponic systems, plant care, and educational outreach, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and student learning.

Responsibilities

• Knowledge and experience in maintaining and caring for growing fields and gardens, greenhouses, agricultural buildings, and general grounds.
• Perform general agricultural work, greenhouse work, and plant care.
• Monitor and maintain hydroponic systems, ensuring optimal growing conditions for crops.
• Plant, maintain, harvest, and process produce in the Freight Farm and other growing areas.
• Perform routine checks on plant health, nutrient levels, and water quality.
• Implement pest management strategies and monitor for signs of disease.
• Move plants from the Freight Farm to the greenhouse or fields as needed.
• Troubleshoot and assist in repair of equipment to ensure smooth operation of growing spaces.
• Assist in the setup and calibration of environmental controls, such as lighting and climate systems.
• Support educational programs and workshops related to sustainable farming and hydroponics for students and community members.
• Assist faculty with research projects related to urban agriculture and sustainability.
• Maintain accurate records of crop growth, yields, and system maintenance.
• Assist in data collection for research and reporting purposes.
• Support other Field to Table Institute initiatives as needed, including teaching courses.

Requirements

• Current student at the Field to Table Institute with an interest in gaining experience in controlled environment agriculture, horticulture, and related fields.
• Coursework or experience with hydroponics, greenhouse management, or a related field is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of planting, pruning, irrigation, transplanting, fertilizer application, and basic mechanical skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move equipment and supplies (up to 50 lbs).
• Adept at working in varying temperatures and environments.
• Able to work with plants and potential allergens.

Reports to: Executive Director, Field to Table Institute