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Land Steward Associate
The Land Steward Associate works closely with the Environmental Educator to maintain the Swallowtail Farm Campus in a way that improves the health of the land and enriches the education opportunities for our students. Our farm campus includes farmed agricultural zones, a pond and river, low lying fields that flood each year, and native forest. We have been involved in grant work to develop new processes for the removal of invasive species and restoration of native habitat. Our students visit the property once a week to engage with the land and learn about sustainable food production and how we can care for and restore natural areas.

We are looking for a dedicated individual to join our team - preferably someone who has knowledge of biodynamic or other sustainable farming practices as well as natural resource management and the particular ecology of the Pacific Northwest. This includes the use and making of soil amendments, conservation grazing, cover crops, soil erosion control measures, integrated pest management, management of invasive species, and land drainage and health of waterways and wetlands. Successful candidates might also have experience with city permitting, grant management, agricultural contracts and bidding, or community engagement.

Specific duties include:

Work collaboratively with the Environmental Educator to understand the needs of the space as it relates to the student programs at the Farm Property. Prepare spaces for class activities (for example: by preparing a planting bed, mowing a portion of the field, or procuring native plants for habitat restoration work).

Sometimes assist the Environmental Educator in working with groups of children, depending on the support needs for the lesson.

Assist with property management and restoration activities including vegetation management such as mowing, understory thinning, removal of invasive species, and restoration with native plants.

Occasionally attend committee meetings related to the use of the property, to offer insights into the physical space and potential needs or considerations.

Some agricultural work to maintain our farm tax deferral status.

We are seeking candidates who have:

Experience working with the local habitats of the Pacific Northwest, and an understanding of the flora and fauna of the Willamette Valley.

Demonstrated knowledge of sustainable farming practices, with preference given for biodynamic farming experience.

A willingness to work outdoors in all kinds of weather.

A ready willingness to accept both positive and constructive feedback, and to be part of a culture that values constant professional growth.

A desire and ability to communicate and connect with many different groups (students, families, teachers, and community partners) as they use our farm property.

Hours: 20-40 hrs/wk, depending on needs of candidate
Classification: Hourly
Salary/Compensation: $16- $20
Reports to: Environmental Educator

Please send letter of interest, resume and 3 references to Kristen Arrastia at kristen@swallowtailschol.org