For students interested in pursuing a career in farming or who want to learn about sustainable growing practices, the Field and Fork Garden Assistant Internship is a unique opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in community based sustainable food production right here on campus.
Field and Fork Garden Assistant Internship Description:
Field and Fork Garden Assistant Interns will work with the Field and Fork Coordinator at the Student Gardens to do a wide spectrum of tasks that are integral to maintaining a large existing garden. Specific tasks will vary weekly and will be determined by the real and ever-changing needs of the garden. Interns will gain practical, hands-on experience in many of the primary categories of farming and gardening: weed management, soil care, plant health, water management, equipment operation and maintenance, planting, harvesting, post-harvest handling, integrated pest management and record keeping.
Specific Responsibilities of the Garden Assistant Internship Position:
- General garden labor and crop maintenance- planting, weeding, harvesting, fertilizing, trellising, thinning, etc.
- Integrated pest management
- General grounds maintenance- mowing and weed whacking
- Volunteer management- assisting the Garden Coordinator with garden volunteers
- Community outreach- assisting the Garden Coordinator with events, workshops, and garden tours
- Post-harvest handling of vegetables- washing, packing, and deliveries
- Equipment maintenance- maintaining hand tools, mowers, and weed whackers
- Record keeping – assist Garden Coordinator with record keeping
- Garden shed organization and cleaning
- Must have the physical ability and stamina to stoop, kneel, lift heavy things and work in all weather conditions
- Weekend and evening work may be required for special events and volunteer workdays
- Attend weekly Field and Fork Intern meetings
We are looking for two students who can commit 10 hours a week to working in the Student Gardens as Garden Assistant Interns. Interns will be compensated at the rate of $10/hr. If interested, please submit your resume and completed application ASAP but no later than 5pm on Dec. 19th, to the Field and Fork Coordinator, Claudie Babineaux @ cbabineaux@ufl.edu.
Contact Robin Snyder for a copy of the application form rsnyder@ufl.edu
