NOFA/Mass has been working effectively on making raw milk available to consumers and helping farmers work out the details of production. We would like to take this work to the next step and help stem the tide of the loss of dairies in the state by working with farmers to overcome barriers, convert to organic methods, and investigate new marketing opportunities. We are posting a position to do the following:

From May 15 to August 15

  a.. Contact Massachusetts dairy farmers to assess needs

  b.. Compile data on the state of the Massachusetts dairy industry

  c.. Research successful models in organic dairy production in the NE

  d.. Network with other organizations in Mass working on the dairy issue

  e.. Investigate barriers to organic conversion in Mass

  f.. Investigate markets for organic dairies in Mass

  g.. Investigate the regulatory barriers for small animal based farms in Mass

  h.. Become familiar with cooperative purchasing and marketing efforts in place in Mass

This job will entail some strategic visits, phone calls, and internet connection with farmers, other NOFA chapters, the Northeast Organic Dairy Producer's Alliance, Weston A Price foundation, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and advocacy organizations. It will require compilation of past NOFA/Mass work done on this issue and regulatory research. The job candidate must be self-starting, able to do some travel, and have first hand knowledge of farming, hopefully dairy farming in one's personal background. By August 15 the person must put together a comprehensive report of information gathered and provide an analysis of how NOFA/Mass could best tackle this issue starting in the fall of 2005. This research position could easily be a precursor to taking on the defined organic diary survival position in the fall.

March 8, 2005

Announcing Job Opportunities at Atlas Farm

Atlas Farm is a small family farm located in South Deerfield, MA. Owners Gideon Porth and Sara Coblyn have been working in agriculture since 1996 and share a deep commitment to sustainable farming. Our farm is dedicated to producing food in a way that will maintain biological diversity, support natural ecosystems, and keep the land productive for future generations.

We grow a wide variety of certified organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers and sell our products direct to consumers at farmers' markets throughout Massachusetts. We also sell wholesale to area restaurants and grocery stores throughout the season.

                              We are hiring for four positions for the 2005 season.  Applicants should be hard-working, reliable, interested in sustainable agriculture, have a valid driver’s license and be able to lift 50 pounds.

Positions available for 2005:

Full-time Farm Assistant (April through November, 50 hrs./wk.)

Assist with all aspects of production including field preparation, planting, cultivating, harvesting, pest management and marketing. Involves some tractor work and leading others in field work. Also responsible for helping to run one farmers’ market a week. Previous farm experience required.

Part-time Farmers’ Market Assistant (June through November, 30 hrs./wk.)

Assist with sales 3 days a week at our farmers’ market stand in Boston. Responsibilities include stand set up and take down, vegetable display and customer sales. Previous retail or customer service experience desired but not required. Boston-area resident preferred, travel to the farm not required.

Full-time Field Worker (May through October, 50 hrs./wk.)          

Assist with all aspects of production including planting, cultivating, harvesting and wholesale deliveries. Previous farm experience preferred but not required.

Part-time Field Worker (June through September, 20 hrs./ wk.)                         
Assist with harvest work and some other field tasks 3 days/week. Previous farm experience preferred but not required.

 _Program Director :  UFE is seeking a passionate yet pragmatic Program Director who will lead  our talented program team to expand UFE's reach and influence. Joining the  senior management team, this first Program Director will advance the  mission of UFE through building innovative programs, developing strategic  partnerships, and the effective use media and messaging. This is an ideal opportunity for those who embrace UFE's commitment to public investment  that lifts all Americans and progressive taxation that requires the  fortunate to pay their fair share, and who wish to empower ordinary people  with the knowledge and tools to influence economic and social rules. To  see the full position description, please go to:

 http://www.nonprofitprofessionals.com/searches/ufe_programs.htm

  _Operations Director:_UFE is seeking a Director of Operations who will provide strong leadership  and skilled management to all administrative and operations functions. As part of the senior management team of UFE, we expect the person in this  new position to continuously improve the quality and efficiency of our  administrative, finance, and technology functions in keeping with our growing organization. The Operations Director will help UFE create an inclusive organizational culture capable of attracting and retaining a  racially and culturally diverse workforce and help UFE meet the challenges  of its second decade. To see the full position description, please go to:

 http://www.nonprofitprofessionals.com/searches/ufe_operations.htm

 _Research Specialist_: UFE seeks someone who can transform dry economics into lively messages  about the extent of economic inequality and its damaging consequences  widely across the US in engaging and energizing ways. One way we get our  message into the media is by publishing reports that combine existing data  in surprising ways. The Research Specialist plays a central role in  developing creative and newsworthy research ideas, researching and writing reports, and representing their findings to the media. In addition, for  UFE workshops, action alerts and articles, we need the most updated information, framed in ways that make our points. The Research Specialist  provides the staff with one-stop-shopping for data. To see the full position description, please go to:

 http://www.nonprofitprofessionals.com/searches/ufe_research.htm

 _Education Coordinator:  United for a Fair Economy (UFE) is seeking an empowering educator to help  spread the word about the extent of economic inequality and its damaging  consequences as widely as possible. Through our popular education  workshops, we demystify economic concepts and policies for community,  labor, youth and religious activists. The Education Coordinator will lead  our workshops in a variety of settings, with a special emphasis on  workshops that raise awareness of the racial dimension of wealth disparity  among African American communities. Outreach and relationship building  with targeted constituencies is the second essential component of this  role. To see the full position description, please go to:

March 7, 2005

Massachusetts chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association Jobs

http://www.nofamass.org/about/jobs.php

Experienced Webmaster for NOFA/Mass website

NOFA Massachusetts is seeking a new webmaster. We need an individual who has experience developing and managing a dynamic website. This person must be fluent in HTML, know how to code and recode JavaScript, and have a familiarity with PHP and MySQL. This position entails not only management of the website but also of the nofamass.org domain - email addresses, forwarders, spam filters and registration/renewal.

This position will begin as soon as it is filled. The rate is hourly ($10.50/hour) and the work is mostly with other NOFA/Mass staff, but sometimes NOFA/Mass members as well. Must be able to complete work on a timely basis, be helpful and personable over email and able to troubleshoot problems as they arrive. This person reports to the Executive Coordinator.  Expect anywhere from 5 to 40 hours of work per month, depending on the time

of year and amount of programs needing website maintenance. The "normal" heaviest times are from November - February and July - August. This person will also be involved with on-line purchasing.

Please send your resume with three references to Julie Rawson, 411 Sheldon Road, Barre, MA 01005 or julie@nofamass.org. Questions, call (978) 355-2853.  Of course, if you have worked on other websites, send us those addresses.  NOFA/Mass consultants are also required to attend the annual NOFA/Mass retreat in late February and staff meeting in early April. This position will be filled as soon as possible. NOFA/Mass consultants start at $10.50/hour.

NOFA Winter Conference Coordinator

This event typically takes place the third Saturday in January. Below is the job description.. Send resume and three references to NOFA/Mass at 411 Sheldon Road, Barre, MA 01005 or julie@nofamass.org by April 15, 2005. The consultant pay is $4,000 based on an hourly rate of $10.50/hour.

Call Julie Rawson at (978) 355-2853 with questions.

Job Description

  1.. Organize a one-day winter conference for NOFA/Mass;

    a.. Choose staff and meet with them as needed in preparation for the conference;

    b.. Work with an advisory committee of the Board of Directors, the executive coordinator of NOFA/Mass and the following coordinators to put together a one-day event with appropriate adult workshops, potentially a keynote speaker, a potluck lunch, a vibrant Children's Conference, exhibits and a raffle;

    c.. Positions to fill include Registration Coordinator, Children's Coordinator, Food/Potluck Coordinator, Exhibit Coordinator,

    d.. Expected attendance will be at least 400 participants;

  2.. Publicize the conference and register attendees

  3.. Provide reports on this work to the NOFA/Mass executive coordinator prior to the Board of Directors meetings

  4.. Provide a final financial accounting to NOFA/Mass, including any final income and expenses

  5.. Attend the NOFA/Mass Annual Retreat and one staff meeting

GROW HARTFORD INTERNSHIPS, HARTFORD, CT

GROW Hartford, a new project of the Hartford Food System, promotes a

sustainable and equitable food system in Hartford by cultivating youth

leadership, community education and agricultural entrepreneurship.  They

have two internship opportunities:  Education and Outreach Coordinator

and Laurel Street Farmers Market Coordinator.  To apply, send a letter

of interest and resume to Program Director Shannon Raider,

191 Franklin Avenue Hartford, Connecticut 06114 Ph: 860.296.9325  Email:

shannon@hartfordfood.org

Farm Coordinator, Gaining Ground, Concord, MA

Gaining Ground is looking for an experienced organic gardener/educator

to serve as our Farm Coordinator. This key person is responsible for

day-to-day operation of two organic gardens at the Thoreau Birthplace

and the Old Manse properties, with approximately 10 acres under

cultivation. Competitive salary, benefits, excellent team, and active

Board. For more information about Gaining Ground, go to

www.gainingground.org . To apply, submit letter of interest and resume to

Emily@gainingground.org. Or send your letter and resume to Gaining

Ground, P. O. Box 374, Concord, MA  01742.

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD TRUST, PHILADELPHIA, PA

The Food Trust is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization

improving the supply of affordable food and good nutrition in the

mid-Atlantic region. The mission of The Food Trust is to ensure that

everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food. The three jobs

currently available are: Associate Director of Finance and

Administration, Development Coordinator, and Local Food Project

Associate.  For more info, see:

http://www.thefoodtrust.org/php/about/jobs.php

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE FOOD PROJECT, MA

The Food Project operating from Lincoln and Roxbury Massachusetts has a

number of positions available, both entry-level and managerial.  For

more info, see: http://www.thefoodproject.org/about/internal1.asp

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, THE COMMUNITY FOOD RESOURCE CENTER, NEW YORK, NY

The Community Food Resource Center (CFRC) is dedicated to helping

low-income New Yorkers gain and maintain access to nutritious food,

income support and decent housing. For more info, see:

http://www.cfrcnyc.org/index.php?name=employment

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS, COMMUNITY HARVEST, WASHINGTON, DC

Community Harvest currently has the following job vacancies: Local Food

Alliance Director, Farm Manager/Volunteer Coordinator, Youth Program

Coordinator. For more info, see:

http://www.communityharvestdc.org/about/jobs.htm

JUST FOOD Program Manager - NYC

Just Food is a New York City non-profit organization that works to develop a just and sustainable food system in the NYC region. We currently seek a full-time Program Manager to coordinate further develop our innovative CSA program. The CSA in NYC program connects Northeast regional farmers with New Yorkers - providing farmers a stable committed consumer base, and New Yorkers access to fresh, affordable, healthful produce. Just Food focuses on starting CSA that emphasize participation and ownership by low-income community members.

Responsibilities

The CSA Program Manager reports directly to the Executive Director and takes the lead role further developing and coordinating the program through the following activities: Develop annual and 3-5 year program plan; Ensure program activities occur on time and within budget; Supervise other CSA program staff; Recruit and supervise CSA VISTA members, interns and volunteers; Organize and facilitate monthly workshops for volunteers and community organization staff developing CSA sites in their community; Provide one-on-one technical assistance to volunteers and community organization staff developing new CSA sites and ongoing sites that need additional assistance; Update CSA in NYC Toolkit and workshop series as needed; Coordinate meetings of the Farmer Advisory Committee and the City Advisory Team quarterly needed; Conduct outreach, application, selection and partnering processes for both farmers and city interested in starting CSA in NYC; Refine and further develop application process for city groups and farmers as needed; Plan and facilitate annual CSA in NYC Mini-Conference as well as borough-wide meetings for CSA sites; Refine current practices and develop other approaches to increase participation of low-income communities in CSA; Develop and conduct annual media strategy to increase public awareness of CSA sites throughout NYC; Collect and disseminate or write articles to increase knowledge of CSA members about food issues.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 3-5 years project management, community organizing, supervisory experience.

Participatory facilitation and public speaking skills.

Strategic planning and collaborative project development skills.

Willingness to travel within NYC and in the region.

Willingness to work some evenings and weekends.

Agriculture/food systems background and knowledge of NYC neighborhoods.

Ability to work well in teams with diverse groups across race, class, and urban/rural divides.

Experience in working with low-income community members.

Extremely good communication and “people” skills.

Strong writing and word processing abilities.

Be self-guided, highly organized and creative and able to juggle multiple complex tasks.

Bi-lingual Spanish/English strongly desired.

Good sense of humor.

Salary is mid 30s to low 40s commensurate with experience and education. A comprehensive package is included. Position starts mid-April, 2005

To apply: Qualified candidates - send cover letter, resume and 3 references to Ruth Katz, Just Food; 307 7th Ave, Suite 1201, NY, NY 10001.

Email submissions will not be accepted. Final deadline for receiving application materials is March 11, 2005.

* FARMSITE MANAGER *

 * New Entry Sustainable Farming Project (NESFP)*

The New Entry Sustainable Farming Project (NESFP) assists immigrants and refugees with farming

backgrounds to develop viable farming operations in Massachusetts. NESFP is sponsored by Community

Teamwork, Inc. and Tufts University. See http://www.nesfp.org

*_OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES_**: *The candidate will work closely with immigrant farmers in Dracut MA, and at other farms in Eastern Massachusetts to manage NESFP training farms, affiliated farms, and NESFP-owned equipment; facilitate crop production (emphasizing organic or IPM techniques); organize technical assistance around business management, marketing, agricultural enterprise, and other topics; and link growers with other community resources, project staff and activities. * *

   1. *Manage NESFP Training Farms and Equipment: ***

· In coordination with landowners, staff and farmers, oversee management of NESFP farm sites and equipment in Greater Lowell area and other designated sites within the Eastern Massachusetts area;

· Work with farmers to coordinate onsite farm services, including land preparation and the use/management of greenhouse, irrigation, tillage equipment, cooling / storage, and other farm supplies and equipment. Expand farmers’ participation in effective site management;

· Oversee and collect payments due for rent and other fees from farmers;

· Assist farmers and program with proper maintenance of equipment and facilities, including tractors, other tillage equipment, and irrigation;

· Assist farmers to understand roles and expectations for farmsites; facilitate ongoing compliance with guidelines such as access, cleanliness, use of equipment and facilities;

· Serve as a liaison among all parties and effectively communicate relevant information and concerns to landowners, staff, and farmers.

* 2. Provide Technical Assistance to Project Participants**:*

· Assist production activities at farms used by project participants;

· Provide pest management education to farmers in collaboration with UMass Extension Educators and others; monitor pest management activities and assure compliance with specific guidelines for each site;

· Assist with implementation of seasonal training program activities;

· Assist with one-on-one technical assistance activities for farmers on production and post harvest handling of crops;

· Assist farmers to keep production records, complete acreage reports, and determine crop yields;

· Help to coordinate farmer meetings, and encourage farmer participation in seasonal workshops, conferences, and farm visits/field trips;

· Link farmers to agricultural experts and to other farming resources in the area.

*_QUALIFICATIONS_**:_ _*

· Bachelor’s degree preferred. Also, relevant farming education and / or farm management experience related to meeting requirements of the position.

· Community organizing and cross-cultural experience helpful; prepared to build relationships with immigrant and refugee participants and with organizational partners;

· Self-motivated, and self-directed; works well within in a rapidly-changing environment;

· Appropriate computer skills, and effective communications and writing ability;

· Access to reliable private transportation necessary;

· Flexible schedule needed, including weekends and some evenings

*_Location_*: Position based in Lowell at Community Teamwork, Inc., NESFP office. Travel primarily between Lawrence, Lowell, Fitchburg, and Worcester locations. Must have reliable transportation.

*_Salary - Seasonal part-time position funded for 6 months (April – October), at 20-30 hours/week.. Compensation is $15-20 / hour, related to experience, with job-related travel reimbursement.

*_Beginning Date April 11, 2005 preferred start date.

February 17, 2005

Local Food Project Associate

LOCATION:  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Food Trust, founded in 1992, grew out of a desire to bring affordable, nutritious, fresh fruit and vegetables to people in the inner city. Now in its second decade, The Food Trust’s mission has expanded to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food. With a 2005 budget of $4 million and 27 employees, The Food Trust is generally regarded as one of the leading organizations nationally with a focus on community food security and nutrition education. This dynamic, forward-thinking agency has grown at an average rate of 50% in each year of its existence.

The Local Food Project Associate will work with a variety of projects at the Food Trust and be responsible for facilitating sales from local farmers to schools, retail stores, wholesalers and brokers. A significant part of the position will involve working on a project to increase sales of locally grown foods in Greater Philadelphia area schools for lunch, after-school, and summer feeding programs. Sales contracts of an estimated value of approximately $350,000 must be executed between local farmers and the schools to integrate local, fresh produce into school and summer feeding programs.

The Local Food Project Associate will:

§         Promote and market locally grown food to a variety of purchasers throughout the region including schools, retail stores, wholesalers and brokers.

§         Facilitate and negotiate agreements between farmers and schools for purchase of locally grown produce. Facilitate and negotiate similar arrangements between farmers’ and other retailers in the Philadelphia area on an ongoing basis.

§         Identify individual farmers, farmer collaboratives, other multi-farmer marketing organizations, and brokers who aggregate local product who could fulfill these orders on a consistent basis and meet school and retailer requirements for quality, volume, grading, packaging, and on-time delivery.

§         Ensure that agreements will be signed between growers and/or their representatives and the schools in a timely manner.

Key Attributes

The ability to work with others in a collegial environment to implement the agency’s vision. 

§         Bachelor’s Degree.

§         Strong written and verbal communication skills.

§         Adept at forging strong relationships with key people inside and outside the agency.

§         The ideal candidate will have the following personal characteristics: unquestioned integrity; personal stature; a passion for excellence; a high energy level; a sense of urgency; excellent listening skills; persuasive communications skills; an entrepreneurial spirit; a sense of humor; an open mind; a candid manner; a commitment to The Food Trust’s mission.

Salary: Very competitive, based on experience. 

TO APPLY:

E-mail your résumé and cover letter to contact@thefoodtrust.org or fax to 215-568-0882. Please reference “Project Associate” in the subject line. Please do not call.

REPORTS TO:   Brian Lang, Project Coordinator

Garden Manager Needed- Warren Wilson College

Warren Wilson College invites applications for the position of Garden Manager. The College garden is a five-acre, sustainable, organic market garden with some soft fruit and medicinal herbs.  The Garden Manager directs a student crew of 22 to manage the market garden and orchard, a medicinal herb enterprise, and a draft horse team and collaborates with college faculty and staff to further the educational mission of the college. Qualified candidates will demonstrate experience successfully managing a productive organic market garden dependent on their ability to motivate and manage a college age labor force while teaching gardening skills.   A Bachelors degree is required with Agricultural Degree preferred. Experience utilizing greenhouses and other season extension techniques is required. Draft horse experience is a plus. 

February 14, 2005

POSITION

Post Doctoral Associate, The University of Georgia, College of

Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Department of Agricultural

and Applied Economics, Griffin Campus, Griffin, Georgia.

RESPONSIBILITIES

This appointment is 100% research with emphasis on social capital, sustainable

agriculture, community and economic development, and institutional economics. The

candidate will work with a faculty member in developing a research program in the

above areas.  A major focus will be on the application of relevant econometric

analyses, data assembly, and publication of results.  This position is funded for

twelve (12) months.

QUALIFICATIONS

A Ph.D. (awarded and/or certification of all requirements completed) in

Agricultural Economics, Economics, Business, Marketing, Rural Sociology,

or related field.

SALARY

Salary is competitive and commensurate with training and experience.

POSITION AVAILABLE

January 1, 2005

CLOSING DATE

Until filled

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Candidates should submit a letter of application, curriculum vita,

course/grade transcript(s), and four (4) letters of recommendation.

Copies of publications or papers presented at professional meeting

are desirable, but not necessary.  Please send application letter

with accompanying materials to:

Dr. Jeffrey L. Jordan

The University of Georgia

Department of Agricultural & Applied Economics

1109 Experiment Street

Griffin, Georgia   30223-1797   USA

Email: jjordan@southernsare.org

LOCATION:  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

www.TheFoodTrust.org

The Food Trust, founded in 1992, grew out of a desire to bring affordable, nutritious, fresh fruit and vegetables to people in the inner city. Now in its second decade, The Food Trust's mission has expanded to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food. With a 2005 budget of $4 million and 27 employees, The Food Trust

is generally regarded as one of the leading organizations nationally with a focus on community food security and nutrition education. This dynamic, forward-thinking agency has grown at an average rate of 50% in each year of its existence.

The Local Food Project Associate will work with a variety of projects at the Food Trust and be responsible for facilitating sales from local farmers to schools, retail stores, wholesalers and brokers. A significant part of the position will involve working on a project to increase sales of locally grown foods in Greater Philadelphia area

schools for lunch, after-school, and summer feeding programs. Sales contracts of an estimated value of approximately $350,000 must be executed between local farmers and the schools to integrate local, freshproduce into school and summer feeding programs.

The Local Food Project Associate will:

Promote and market locally grown food to a variety of purchasers throughout the region including schools, retail  stores, wholesalers and brokers.

Facilitate and negotiate agreements between farmers and schools for purchase of locally grown produce. Facilitate and negotiate similar arrangements between farmers' and other retailers in the Philadelphia

area on an ongoing basis.

Identify individual farmers, farmer collaboratives, other multi-farmer marketing organizations, and brokers who      

aggregate local product who could fulfill these orders on a consistent basis and meet school and retailer requirements for quality, volume, grading, packaging, and on-time delivery.

Ensure that agreements will be signed between growers and/or their representatives and the schools in a timely manner.

February 2, 2005

Alternative Swine Scientist

Location: West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) - Morris, MN

Applications Accepted Thru: 03/15/2005

Term: 9 months - B appointment

Type: Tenure Track

Program Description:

Assistant Professor in Animal Science (9-month appointment, administratively and programmatically responsible to the WCROC Head and Department of Animal Science Head with tenure track in the Department of Animal Science, located on the St. Paul Campus, College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, at the University of Minnesota) Location: West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC), College of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences, University of Minnesota,

Morris, MN. WCROC is one of three Centers conducting swine research at the University of Minnesota. 

Duties:

Research (75%): This person will coordinate and implement a research program designed to evaluate alternative swine production systems. This position will emphasize animal Behavior/applied Ethology in the context of biological, economic, social and environmental components of swine production systems. Also, this person will coordinate and facilitate research that will increase our knowledge of swine behavior and apply that knowledge to improve alternative production systems. Research will

be conducted at the WCROC and other University of Minnesota facilities and on private farms. The faculty member will collaborate with teams of discipline experts, including farmers, to provide site-specific knowledge about alternative swine production systems. This faculty member is expected to develop a strong, extramurally-funded research program and advise graduate students. Outreach (25%): The faculty member will serve as lead person in alternative pork production systems, along

with staff, faculty and stakeholders. The faculty member will provide leadership in developing educational programs in alternative pork production systems. Additionally, the potential exists for this faculty person to provide lectures in her/his area of expertise to course offerings throughout the University of Minnesota system and through emerging partnerships with other educational institutions. 

Application Instructions:

Salary and Benefits: Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include health, dental, and faculty life/disability insurance, social security, faculty retirement (immediate participation dependent on eligibility; otherwise 2-year waiting period) and opportunities for sabbaticals and quarter leaves.

Date Available: July 1, 2005, or until a suitable candidate is found Application Deadline and Procedure: Review of candidates will begin March 15. Applicants must send a letter of application that includes a statement of interests relevant to this position, vita, copies of all college transcripts, and have three letters of reference sent independently to: Dennis Johnson, c/o Jean Spohr, West Central Research and Outreach Center, 46352 State Highway 329, P.O. Box 471, Morris, MN 56267. Inquiries should be

Statewide Program Director for

         Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships

Location:  University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus

Application Deadline:      March 18, 2005

Review of applications will begin on this date and

the position will remain open until filled.

The Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) work to sustain Minnesotas natural resource-based communities and industries by addressing community-identified agricultural, natural resources, and tourism issues in partnership with the University of Minnesota. The Partnerships are designed to foster citizen engagement in support of the Universitys education, research, and outreach mission.  This full-time position provides leadership and coordination for the RSDP program in Minnesota.

The complete position description can be found at:

Gaining Ground Seeks Farm Coordinator

                  (Concord, MA). Gaining Ground is a non-profit organic farming

                  and hunger relief organization in Concord, MA. We are looking

                  for an experienced organic gardener/educator to serve as our

                  Farm Coordinator. This key person is responsible for

                  day-to-day operation of our two organic gardens at the Thoreau

                  Birthplace and the Old Manse properties, with approximately 10

                  acres under cultivation. In addition to coordinating the

                  cultivation, harvest, and delivery of 25,000+ lbs. of produce

                  to food pantries, shelters, and meal programs that rely on us,

                  the Farm Coordinator is responsible for overseeing core staff

                  members, and hundreds of volunteers each season (including

                  students, families, seniors, non-English speakers, and

                  physically/developmentally challenged groups). We're looking

                  for someone with a strong vision of organic farming,

                  community, and hunger relief..

Competitive salary, benefits, excellent team, and

                  active Board. For more information about Gaining Ground, go to

                  http://www.gainingground.org/ 

To apply, submit letter of interest and résumé to

Emily@gainingground.org

                  Or send your letter and résumé to Gaining Ground, P. O. Box

Director of Resource Development - Foodshare

            An experienced professional is needed to lead Foodshare's resource development functions, including grants, direct mail, major giving, events, food donations, and volunteers.   As Foodshare's chief development officer, the Director is responsible for strategy development, work planning, budgeting, management of a department of eight people, ongoing evaluation and analysis, and support to Foodshare's President and Board of Directors as they carry out their development responsibilities.  The

Director leads the effort to raise $2.5 million annually, as well as the solicitation of over $15 million worth of donated food annually, and engaging over 1,000 volunteers in the process.  In addition, Foodshare is currently in the midst of a $4 million comprehensive campaign to fund a newdistribution facility and new programming.

            The position requires a Bachelor's degree, three or more years of varied fundraising experience, supervisory experience, strong analytical skills, ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds, strong organization and communication skills, and ability to work closely with and provide support to a strong CEO.  This is a full-time position, 40+ hours per week, with occasional evening and weekend work required.

            This is an excellent chance to join one of the Hartford area's leading nonprofit organizations and use your development experience to make a difference for an important cause.  For the right individual, Foodshare offers a creative, innovative, and dynamic work environment, with significant opportunities for self-direction and growth.  Foodshare provides a comprehensive employee benefit package and operates a smoke-free facility.

To apply, please submit a resume, stating salary requirements, to:

Gloria J. McAdam, President

Foodshare, PO Box 809, Windsor, CT  06095

FAX (860) 688-2776   or   e-mail gmcadam@secondharvest.org

Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.

 <http://www.foodshare.org>

Program and Administrative Assistant - CISA

Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to sustaining agriculture in Western

Massachusetts.  Our programs include 'Be a  Local Hero, Buy Locally Grown' program, the Senior FarmShare Program, Local Hero Schools Network, Heritage Wool Project, agritourism events, and technical assistance trainings and workshops.

Administrative and Program Assistant duties and responsibilities will include:

    * Assist with programmatic activities as needed for Senior FarmShare,

Heritage Wool Blanket, Local Hero Schools Network, Local Hero Campaign, and technical assistance, including planning and staffing special events (sometimes on weekends) and workshops (sometimes at night);

    * Provide clerical support to program staff;

    * Answer phones and assist callers;

    * Maintain and update filing systems and databases;

    * Attend meetings and take minutes;

    * Coordinate and complete mailings;

    * Manage promotional material, including printing and updating materials, maintaining tabling materials;

    * Recruit and supervise volunteers as needed.

We're looking for an energetic, out-going person who is willing to work hard and think creatively.  Other desired qualifications include:

    * Strong communication, computer, and organizational skills;

    * Excellent people skills;

    * Ability to work well independently and as a team player in a small, fast-paced office environment;

    * Commitment to CISA's mission of building a secure, local food and farming system in western Massachusetts.

    * Need to have car and be available to work during some weekends.

Salary range $10-12/hour, 30-40 hours a week.

Please send a resume and a cover letter highlighting your strengths and experience to CISA, 1 Sugarloaf St., South Deerfield, MA  01373, or email to annie@buylocalfood.com.

Colchester Farm - Position Announcements

2005 Growing Season

Colchester Farm is a 340-acre farm located on the Sassafras River, a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. We grow organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers and free-range chickens. Much of the produce goes to a 75-family CSA that distributes in the Upper Eastern Shore region.  2005 will be the third year of operation for this segment of the farm, which has considerably expanded over the past few years.

The Assistant Manager and Intern positions will begin in April and end in October, with the possibility of extending through the winter.  Tasks will be focused around harvesting produce but will also include planting, transplant production, irrigation projects, crop maintenance, chicken care, and direct marketing through farmers markets, and the CSA.

Individuals enthusiastic about sustainable agriculture will be the best candidates. Colchester Farm is in the process of transitioning into sustainable/organic farming practices and diversifying its markets. We also hope to soon establish educational and research components at the farm.

Qualifications

Assistant Manager:  Minimum two years of experience farming or gardening, preferably using organic production methods.  Ability to work long hours under extreme weather conditions (heat and wet).  Valid driver's license.  Familiarity with operation of tractors and farm equipment preferred.  Time commitment of 6 months (mid-April to mid-October).

Additional preference will be given to individuals with a degree in a related field or progress towards one.

Intern:  No experience required, but the best candidates will have an interest in sustainable agriculture.

Compensation

Competitive weekly stipend based on experience.

Free housing and vegetables.

To Apply:

Send cover letter and resume to:

CSA Manager

Colchester Farm

PO Box 162

Georgetown, MD 21930

Executive Director

National Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture

Founded in 1994, the National Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture is an alliance of hundreds of grassroots, state, regional and national partner organizations, representing constituencies that include family and minority farms, farm workers, rural and urban communities, labor, environmental and wildlife advocates, workers, students, indigenous peoples, consumers, faith-based institutions, social justice advocates and others.  With offices in Pine Bush, New York and Washington, DC, the National Campaign is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to encourage public policy that results in a food and agricultural

system that is healthy, humane, profitable and just for all.

The National Campaign's principal priority over the next three to five years is to strengthen its network and action alert base, which will further its impact on public policy and result in on-the- ground changes that lead to a more sustainable food and agriculture system.  Toward that end, the duties of the executive director include providing overall strategic leadership and vision to the National Campaign, in partnership with the board and managing the day-to-day affairs of the organization, including program, finances and staff supervision. For a full description of the position and its responsibilities, please visit:

www.transitionguides.com/ncsa.htm

Ideal candidates for this position will:

.Be a champion (or have a compelling interest in becoming a champion) for the National Campaign's mission.

.Have experience in grass-roots policy development, ideally at the federal level.

.Have exceptionally strong relationship-building skills and an appetite for coalition- building work.

.Relish the complexity and rewards of leading a growing national organization and fostering the development that will take it to the next level.

.Be an excellent administrator capable of managing the affairs of the National Campaign.

.Have superb written and verbal communication skills.

.Be able to work effectively with the board of directors.

.Be computer literate with experience with Microsoft Office, internet and email.

.Be capable of overnight business travel that includes at least five to seven trips per year.

.Possess an advanced degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.

The executive director may be based in the National Campaign's headquarters in Pine Bush, New York or its Washington, DC, office.  The National Campaign may consider proposals for an alternative basing location from exceptionally well qualified candidates.

To apply, email resume, cover letter and salary requirements to:

NCSA@transitionguides.com or mail to: NCSA Search Committee, c/o

TransitionGuides, 1751 Elton Rd, Suite 204 , Silver Spring, MD 20903 or

fax to: (301) 439-6638.  E-mail applications are preferred.

Agriculture Policy Coordinator - The Illinois Stewardship Alliance, Inc.

JOB DESCRIPTION

A full-time staff position for agriculture program planning, implementation and evaluation including:

1.  Constituency organizing in response to targeted agricultural and food policy issues and/or needs identified in specific rural areas.

2.  Coordinating and implementing all agriculture related projects, unless otherwise assigned.

3.  Advocating for state and federal policies, and networking with regional

and national groups around those policies.

4.  Training and coordinating field staff or farmer-advocates.

5.  Researching ag issues affecting family farmers and sustainable agriculture.

6.  Raising public awareness on the issues through workshops, presentations and written materials.

 7.  Working with other ISA staff on related issues such as food policy, water quality and rural economic development.

7.  Collaborating with other staff in organizational responsibilities, including fundraising.

SALARY RANGE and TRAVEL

Salary range $27,000 to $32,000 commensurate with experience and background,

plus benefits.  Must be available to travel, some nights and weekends

required, and have access to a reliable vehicle. 

WHAT IS THE ILLINOIS STEWARDSHIP ALLIANCE?

The Illinois Stewardship Alliance is a 31-year-old public interest membership organization with a proven track record of assisting family farmers and people in rural communities in: developing a food production system based on family farms, building healthy rural communities, and fighting to protect natural resources. 

 TO APPLY

A resume with a short statement of career goals should be submitted to: 

     Illinois Stewardship Alliance

     P.O. Box 648, Rochester, IL  62563

     isa@illinoisstewardshipalliance.org

Local Food Initiative Coordinator  - Rutland County

A collaborative group of farmers and supportive organizations has been formed in the Rutland Region to seek ways of increasing the viability of agriculture in this part of Vermont.  This group has received some grant funding to create a concentrated effort at the regional level to bolster local purchases of regionally produced agricultural goods, refine land use plans and regulations to support agricultural uses, and increase the level of networking and collaboration among farmers and local organizations.

The Rutland Regional Planning Commission, as lead agency on this grant, seeks an

individual that will coordinate, manage and implement this nine-month project. The project has a total budget of $6,000 for this position.

This is a part-time contracted position with the freedom to work out of ones home.

Among other things, the job will involve phone and in-person outreach to local farmers and businesses, organizing meetings, communicating with the media, and writing press releases, meeting minutes and other documents.

Skills required for the position:

. Strong interest and knowledge of Rutland County agriculture

. Experience in Public and Media Relations

. Exceptional oral and written communication skills

. Self motivation

. High-level of organization

. Flexibility

. Proficiency with word processing and spreadsheets

. Familiarity with land use issues useful, but not required

Preference will be given to applicants living within Rutland County.

Applicant must have a computer with access to the Internet and their own transportation.

Please send your resume, a cover letter describing your skills related to this position, and contact information for two references to:

Tara Kelly

Rutland Regional Planning Commission

PO Box 965

Rutland, VT 05702

(hand-deliveries to: 67 Merchants Row, 3rd Floor)

Deadline for Application: February 7th, 5:00 PM.

Position to be filled immediately.

TITLE:           Field Organizer for Illinois - OXFAM

REPORTS TO:  Trade Campaign Manager (with input from FAST & Outreach Manager)

COORDINATES WITH: Lead Field Organizer; Field Organizers; Trade

Campaign Manager; Agriculture Campaign Manager; FAST & Outreach Manager;

Campaigns & Outreach Director; Training & Outreach Coordinator;

Constituency-Building Coordinator; Campaigns & Outreach Organizers;

Internet Campaigns Coordinator; and Campaign volunteers and interns.

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

January 1, 2005

Watershed Agricultural Council - Farm To Market Manager

The Farm to Market Manager will direct the development and implementation of a comprehensive program that will enhance the economic viability of farms in the New York City Watershed Region through farm product promotion, marketing, distribution, and sales system.

Duties and responsibilities will include:

The further development of the Watershed Agricultural Council’s (WAC) Agriculture Economic Sustainability and Outreach Program (AESOP) plan.

Development and management of a regional Buy Local Campaign.

Implementation of a comprehensive farm to market system between farmers of the watershed region and their current and prospective markets.

Working with the appropriate Committee(s) and partners of the WAC.

Coordinating and applying resources to help private entrepreneurs develop economic development projects that are consistent with farm viability goals of the WAC.

Identify and seek grants and other resources to implement and expand the program.

Manage budgets and grant funds consistent with WAC policy.

Report project results and program accomplishments as required to WAC Committee(s), partnering agencies, and funding sources.

Education and Experience Requirements:

Experience specific to the duties and responsibilities as described above.

A College Degree in Agricultural Economics, Food Systems, Marketing Management or a field that prepared you for the specific duties and responsibilities of this position.

Experience in agricultural economic development and regional food systems.

Extensive experience as a Project Manager and the demonstrated ability to work cooperatively to coordinate diverse groups and individuals.

Experience in financial management of programs and projects.

A minimum of 5 years of directly related job experience.

Reporting Relationships:

Works under the direct supervision of the WAC Executive Director.

Reports to the AESOP Committee on accomplishments and approval for new initiatives.

Works with partnering agencies and organizations.

Salary will be negotiable and is commensurate with experience. 

Review of applications will begin February 1, 2005.

Apply by sending a resume and cover letter to:

Watershed Agricultural Council

Attn: Cheryl Marion

33195 State Highway 10

Walton, NY 13856-9751

cpmarion@nycwatershed.org

www.nycwatershed.org