Loy Environmental Center Projects Coordinator (Farm Manager)

The Elon Environmental Center at Loy Farm demonstrates the integration of food and natural systems with the built environment. Loy Farm plays host to a number of Environmental Studies classes. In addition, its activities and functions include food and farming systems, the Design Build Studio for Responsible Architecture, the Piedmont Prairie Ecological Restoration Project, and long-term ecological research.

Elon is a selective, mid-sized private university renowned as a national model for engaged and experiential learning. Students work closely with faculty who are dedicated to excellent teaching and scholarship. The curriculum is grounded in the traditional liberal arts and sciences and complemented by nationally accredited professional and graduate programs.

Job Description

Elon University is seeking candidates to fill the position of Loy Farm Manager. This role will be responsible for maintaining the Loy Environmental Center, coordinating all activities at the Loy Environmental Center, coordinating food production for Elon Dining Services, and engaging the wider Elon Community.

This is an 11-month position (or at least 10 months), but with variable time off based on the semester calendar, slower seasonal duties at the farm and availability of student staff to cover needs.

Responsibilities

Maintain the Loy Environmental Center (“the Center”):

• Maintain all landscape behind the fenced area at the Loy Center (not to include driving and parking areas): mow, string trim, etc.
• Maintain equipment and buildings; assure proper function, student safety with equipment, and make basic repairs or contract with appropriate parties for repairs;
• Assure that entire Center maintains clean, safe, and presentable teaching, research and demonstration status;
• General maintenance: trash, recyclables and assure environmental services does cleaning, snow removal as needed; and
• Arrange with other Elon University departments for work as needed (security, lock shop, landscaping, physical plant, etc.).

Coordinate all activities at the Loy Environmental Center:

• Maintain clear lines of communication between Center Director, Department Chair, and all affiliated faculty and groups who use the Loy Center areas;
• Coordinate use of spaces for classes, instruction, workshops, visits, food production, etc.
• Assist with classes and student projects in design/build studio, overseeing studio projects at designated times outside of class;
• Assist professors with teaching and safe use of equipment at the Loy Center;
• Assist Center Director in coordinating and oversight of faculty and student research projects;
• Assist with outreach, including Office of Sustainability tours, student work, and service opportunities and engaging with community visits and projects;
• Coordinate and assist with workshops at farm and studio;
• Coordinate and supervise all student workers and interns for Loy Center; and
• Mentor student managers and class TAs.

Coordinate food production for Elon Dining Services:

• Coordinate with Elon Dining to plan, implement and produce food for selected dining halls; and
• Manage and comply with any necessary certifications (G.A.P. , etc.) of the working farm space.

Engage the wider Elon Community:

• Assist ENS faculty with innovative ways to integrate food production into the curricular needs of the Department as well as affiliate classes; and
• Engage with on-campus student groups to utilize excess produce in relationship with diverse community members, especially during summer months.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• 4 year degree in Environmental Studies or Sciences, Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field, with at least 2 years on-farm experience in sustainable agriculture and farm management.
• OR, 2 year degree in Sustainable Agriculture or Horticulture, or related field, and 3-4 years on-farm experience in sustainable agriculture and farm management.
• Minimum required: High School diploma and at least 4 years of on-farm experience in sustainable agriculture and farm management.
• Ability to plan and manage seasonal crops to ensure year-round crops for adequate food production, class activities and demonstration purposes.
• Ability to perform basic farm machinery and tool maintenance and repair.
• Oversee maintenance agreements with outside parties and handle paperwork for materials ordering from seeds to repair parts.
• Experience working in community food systems, engaging with community members through educational programs at a "coordinator" or "manager" level Demonstrates exceptional organization as it relates to food production documentation and record keeping.
• Experience preferred in high tunnel operations and extended season growing.
• Experience preferred with basic wood working tools, their maintenance, and safety protocols.
• Maintain tool calibration, blade sharpness and replacement, materials ordering, and studio cleanliness and organization.
• Ability to oversee students doing studio projects outside of class time.

Note: Check out the entire position description by following application link below. Application deadline is June 7, 2021.

Elon University is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to a diverse faculty, staff and student body and welcomes all applicants.