Community Farm Intern

Title: Community Farm Intern
Manager: Community Farm Manager
Location: Loudoun County, Va
Job Classification: Part-Time, Seasonal, Non-exempt

About PEC

The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) conserves and restores the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont, while building stronger, more sustainable communities. Founded in 1972, PEC is a locally based, community-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit and accredited land trust. At the core of PEC’s approach is a focus on educating, engaging and empowering people to effect positive change in their communities.

About the PEC Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows

Launched in 2019, the PEC Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows is an 8-acre farm operation that uses sustainable practices to grow produce for local food pantries. The farm consists of 3.5 acres of vegetable production, 1 acre of orchard and berries, and naturalized areas to support pollinators and beneficial insects. The Community Farm is highly visible and uses volunteers and community engagement to promote the importance of land stewardship, access to fresh foods, and mutual aid. Through the Community Farm, volunteers actively participate in local agriculture, local residents have access to farm tours and educational workshops, and families in need throughout Loudoun and Clarke Counties benefit from increased access to fresh, healthy, locally-produced fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

Your Role

PEC is seeking to hire two Community Farm Interns to help support farm operations. PEC anticipates this position will work 25-30 hours per week, from May to September with flexible start dates (approximately 10 weeks). As an intern, you will not only have the opportunity to cultivate your agricultural skills such as seeding, planting, and weed management, but also connections within the community. You will be involved in all facets of the farm operation and will develop a focus area over the course of the program culminating in an end of season project.

Areas of Responsibility

Possible focus areas include but are not limited to:

• Volunteer engagement
• Farm-based education
• Greenhouse or field management
• Composting and soils

Regardless of focus area, interns will gain experience in:

• Volunteer management and engagement
• Educational program development
• Farm safety
• Field preparation and management
• Seed starting and greenhouse management
• Direct seeding and transplanting
• Harvest and post-harvest handling
• Composting and fertility
• Pest, disease, and weed management
• Orchard and berry systems
• Basic tool and equipment operation
• Supporting the whole farm ecosystem

Geographic Focus

This position is based at PEC’s Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows, located on a 141- acre PEC-owned property at Gilbert’s Corner in Loudoun County, Virginia (39990 Howsers Branch Dr. Aldie, VA 20105).

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

This position will be primarily completed in the field. Fieldwork is performed outdoors in all weather conditions and is carried out with other members of the farm team, volunteers, and occasionally alone. Fieldwork is often physically demanding, including walking over uneven terrain, with a risk of exposure to natural hazards. Occasional lifting of materials up to 50 lbs is required. Occasional attendance at night or weekend events may be required.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in pursuing a career in regenerative agriculture, food systems, or farm-based education.
• Comfort speaking with a diverse audience including volunteers of all ages, school groups, and other PEC staff
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions with limited facilities
• Ability to lift 30 pounds
• Reliable transportation to and from internship
• Ability to pass a background check
• While previous farm or garden experience is welcomed, it is not required
• This internship is ideally suited for college-aged individuals or those at the beginning of their farming journey

Compensation

This position is an hourly, non-exempt, part-time, seasonal position. $20/hr.