Careers
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Openings
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FARMSTAND CASHIER
REPORTS TO: FARMSTAND MANAGER
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: SEASONAL, PT, FT
TRAVEL: N/A
COMP: $17-$19
JOB SUMMARY: As a Farm Stand Cashier, you are the face of The Ecology Center and a passionate, driven, and knowledgeable advocate for our mission. You are responsible for ensuring a fun and friendly customer journey by prioritizing customer needs. You will be expected to speak to our core values, products, and be a proactive and attentive resource to our customers. Key responsibilities include, but not limited to,operating the cash register, stocking shelves, staying up to date on products and seasonal offerings, maintaining a clean and organized store environment while also collaborating with other team members to achieve goals.
REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Bring a positive attitude
Proactive
Ability to work a flexible schedule-Weekends must be open
Ability to operate a cash register and follow all cash handling procedures
Stocking and making sure to properly rotate products.
Cleaning and maintaining all front end areas.
Create a warm and welcoming shopping experience
Passion for food and people
Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast paced environment
Ability to follow directions and procedures
May assist with training new team members
Arrives to work on time
Effective time management and organizational skills
Upholds government regulations concerning sale of alcoholic beverages and consumption
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: A minimum of 2 years retail sales or related customer facing experience
License or Certification: Valid Driver’s License
Specialized Skills: Word, Excel, Google Docs, Email, Slack
Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment (a minimum of 35 lbs) and operate equipment within safety standards
Email resume to [email protected]
PRODUCE STOCKER
REPORTS TO: FARM STAND and PRODUCE MANAGER
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: SEASONAL, PT, FT
TRAVEL: N/A
COMP: $17-$19
JOB SUMMARY: Produce Stocker, you will play an integral role in creating a positive and memorable experience for our Farm Stand customers. As a blend of Front of House and Back of House, you will be responsible for maintaining an abundant, fresh, and organized shopping environment for our customers. In this role, you will have a full understanding of the importance of shopping and eating local, organic, and seasonal produce, as well as, the importance of providing a frictionless hospitality experience and positive first impression for our community.
This individual will typically be responsible for but not limited to stocking and merchandising produce in the Farm Stand as well as general support in our warehouse (the “Barn”). This includes the above, as well as, prepping, culling, lifting, moving, transporting, and coordinating produce across the farm. There may also be times when cashiering support is needed during busy periods or relieving others for breaks. Ability to work a flexible schedule-Weekends must be open
DESIRED – BUT NOT REQUIRED – EXPERIENCE:
Grocery store produce department; Farmers markets; Produce farming; Kitchen or food-service; Other demonstrable and relatable experience; Bilingual (Spanish)
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience: A minimum of 2 years retail sales, service or related customer facing experience
Skills: Positive attitude, maturity, ability to upsell, great verbal and written communication, organized, greets guests genuinely and warmly, work with a sense of urgency, and professionalism.
License or Certification: Valid Driver’s License, Food Handlers (Preferred),
Specialized Skills: Email, Slack, Point of Sales
Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment and boxes (a minimum of 35 lbs.) and operate equipment within safety standards
Weekend Availability: Must be able to work weekends
COMMITMENTS & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Willingness to uphold our company values
Possesses the ability to collaborate and make decisions with teammates
Thrives in an agile and emergent environment
Takes personal responsibility and possesses a curious mindset
Takes initiative to proactively communicate
Willingness to uphold our ongoing efforts toward diversity, equality, and inclusion
Ensures a safe workplace and addresses safety issues as they arise
Maintain a professional work environment that fosters a collaborative team spirit with respect for each individual
PHYSICAL & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
- Safely lift and carry at least 35 lbs (repeatedly throughout the shift)
- Push/pull carts and move product using safe body mechanics
- Stand and walk for extended periods; bend, squat, reach overhead, and climb step-stools/ladders safely
- Work in variable conditions, including outdoors, coolers, and warehouse environments
- Follow all safety expectations including:
- Proper lifting technique and team-lifts when needed
- Keeping aisles/exits clear and reporting slip/trip hazards immediately
- Using gloves or PPE as assigned for handling produce/cleaning tasks
- Following food safety, sanitation, and safe equipment practices (e.g., carts, pallet jacks if trained)
Email resume to [email protected]
PRODUCE COORDINATOR
REPORTS TO: FARM STAND and PRODUCE MANAGER
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: FT
TRAVEL: N/A
COMP: $25-$28
JOB SUMMARY:The Produce Coordinator is responsible for upholding the highest standards of hospitality, customer service, and produce freshness across the organization. This role ensures the integrity and quality of the produce we grow and source from partner farms through thoughtful merchandising, accurate inventory management, effective communication, and hands-on leadership.
The Produce Coordinator oversees day to day produce operations including prepping, stocking, merchandising, signage, and ordering support. They play a key role in maintaining clean, safe, and organized front and back of house workspaces, while training and mentoring staff—especially new hires. When directors or managers are unavailable, the Produce Coordinator serves as the primary point of supervision and decision making for produce operations.
This role works closely with the Farmstand and Produce Manager, Sales and Harvest teams, and Farmers Market teams to align production, purchasing, and retail goals. The Produce Coordinator may also support special programs, seasonal initiatives, scheduling needs, and additional back of house tasks as needed.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES (Including but not limited to)
Operations & Collaboration
- Work closely with the Produce Manager and Farmstand/Farmers Market teams
- Assist with communication and coordination between production, purchasing, and retail
- Share timely updates regarding availability, quality concerns, shortages, or surpluses
- Support holiday, seasonal, and trend-based planning to meet customer demand
Merchandising & Sales
- Analyze sales data and provide feedback to management on product performance
- Develop and implement strategies to increase sales, reduce shrink, and improve profitability
- Ensure produce displays are fully stocked, rotated, clean, and customer-ready at all times
- Maintain appropriate par levels and respond quickly to changes in demand
- Actively upsell produce and provide knowledgeable, engaging customer assistance
Inventory & Ordering
- Track and maintain accurate inventory across all produce areas
- Enter and manage purchase orders in Catapult
- Monitor shrink, spoilage, and waste, and communicate issues proactively
- Ensure signage and pricing are accurate, current, and consistent both on the floor and in systems
Quality, Food Safety & Cleanliness
- Work with the Produce Manager to regularly assess quality, freshness, and retail goals
- Ensure produce coolers are clean, organized, properly rotated, and temperature-compliant
- Maintain cleanliness and organization across all produce-related workspaces (FOH & BOH)
- Follow and uphold food safety, sanitation, and handling standards at all times
Team Leadership & Training
- Train, mentor, and support team members, with a focus on new hires
- Educate staff on seasonality, quality standards, handling practices, and product knowledge
- Delegate tasks effectively and communicate priorities clearly
- Lead with calm authority and positivity, especially during busy or high-pressure shifts
- Assist with team scheduling needs.
Opening & Closing Responsibilities
- Open and/or close the farmstand as scheduled and needed.
- Set the tone for the day through floor readiness, team communication, and hospitality standards
- Complete all end-of-day processes accurately, including cleaning, securing product, and documentation
REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
3–4+ years of experience working with produce in a retail environment
Previous leadership or management experience preferred
Strong customer-service orientation with the ability to authentically engage guests
Ability to upsell products and speak confidently about produce and seasonality
Works with urgency while maintaining attention to detail
Calm, professional demeanor under pressure
Solution-oriented, adaptable, and proactive mindset
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to think critically, problem-solve, and improve systems
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Dependable, accountable, and able to work independently when needed
Team-oriented with the ability to lead by example
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to lift 35+ lbs safely, sometimes in awkward positions
- Ability to stand for 8+ hours
- Ability to squat, kneel, bend, lift, push, and pull as required
- Willingness to speak up, ask for help, and prioritize safety
PHYSICAL & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
- Safely lift and carry at least 35 lbs (repeatedly throughout the shift)
- Push/pull carts and move product using safe body mechanics
- Stand and walk for extended periods; bend, squat, reach overhead, and climb step-stools/ladders safely
- Work in variable conditions, including outdoors, coolers, and warehouse environments
- Follow all safety expectations including:
- Proper lifting technique and team-lifts when needed
- Keeping aisles/exits clear and reporting slip/trip hazards immediately
- Using gloves or PPE as assigned for handling produce/cleaning tasks
- Following food safety, sanitation, and safe equipment practices (e.g., carts, pallet jacks if trained)
Email resume to [email protected]
U-PICK ASSOCIATE
REPORTS TO: DIRECTOR OF ENGAGEMENT, FARM STAND MANAGER, ENGAGEMENT MANAGER
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: SEASONAL, PT (FEB-JUN)
TRAVEL: N/A
COMP: $17
JOB SUMMARY: As a U-Pick Associate, you will play an integral role in overseeing the guests’ farm experience. This individual will help run the 3x/week U-Pick experiences on the farm (Fri, Sat, & Sun)–the shift is 8:00am-2:00pm. This role includes greeting guests/check-in, transacting check-outs, setting up the space, leading educational activities pertaining to U-Pick, and breaking down.
COMMITMENTS & RESPONSIBILITIES: (Including but not limited to)
● Willingness to uphold our company values
● Possesses the ability to collaborate and make decisions with teammates
● Possesses the ability to lead
● Thrives in an agile and emergent environment
● Takes personal responsibility and possesses a curious mindset
● Takes initiative to proactively communicate
● Willingness to uphold our ongoing efforts toward diversity, equality, and inclusion
● Ensures a safe workplace and addresses safety issues as they arise
● Maintain a professional work environment that fosters a collaborative team spirit with respect for each individual
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
● Experience: Experience working in the retail/educational space, with a customer service background
● Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment and boxes (a minimum of 35 lbs.) and operate equipment within safety standards
● Weekend Availability: Must be able to work weekends
Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with “U-Pick Associate Application” as the email subject.
ARTISANAL BREAD BAKER
REPORTS TO: Head Baker/Pastry Chef
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: Full Time/Hourly
TRAVEL: N/A
COMP: $25 per hour or based on experience
JOB SUMMARY: We are seeking an experienced Artisanal Bread Baker to support daily bakery operations on our 28-acre regenerative organic farm. This role helps carry forward our commitment to soil health, slow food, and community nourishment through thoughtful, naturally leavened baking. The artisanal bread baker helps translate the farm’s values into consistent, high-quality baked goods. This position is ideal for an experienced artisanal baker who values collaboration, stewardship, and craft within a mission-driven, farm-based setting.
COMMITMENTS & RESPONSIBILITIES: (Including but not limited to)
- Prepare and bake a variety of products, including (but not limited to) sourdough breads and other baked goods
- Mix, ferment, shape, and bake doughs from scratch following established recipes and processes
- Adjust techniques as needed based on environmental conditions and oven performance
- Ensure consistent quality, flavor, and craftsmanship across all baked goods
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bakery in accordance with food safety standards
- Feed and maintain sourdough starters
- Assist with production planning, baking schedules and ingredient inventory
- Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth workflow during busy production periods
- Stay informed on industry trends and baking techniques to support ongoing skill development
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience in artisanal sourdough baking
- Completion of High School or GED education
- Demonstrated leadership in a bakery or production kitchen setting
- A deep appreciation for both the art and science of bread baking
- Ability to read and respond to changing conditions such as room temperature, humidity,
and oven behavior - Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency and quality
- Pride in craftsmanship and personal accountability for the finished product
- A mindset of continuous learning and improvement
- Someone who has made baking their career, not just a job
- Ability to work early mornings and adapt to seasonal farm rhythms
- Strong, clear and respectful communication skills
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
Email your resume to [email protected] with “Artisanal Bread Baker” as the email subject.
Donor Stewardship Coordinator
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: Full-Time Hourly
SCHEDULE: Wednesday – Sunday with some additional evening responsibilities
COMP: $26 – $29 per hour
JOB SUMMARY:
This position will be responsible for supporting the Development and Engagement teams, as well as the organization’s collective efforts to engage our community through meaningful philanthropy.
The Donor Stewardship Coordinator will cultivate and steward mid-level donors, solicit contributions, support development operations, and work collaboratively with the development and engagement teams to carry out strategic plans related to fundraising, including supporting and coordinating fundraising events.
KEY TASKS: (Including but not limited to)
Donor Cultivation and Stewardship
- Build and maintain meaningful relationships with current and new donors.
- Identify and steward potential donors and strategically solicit donations.
- Implement effective stewardship plans to deepen and grow engagement.
- Engage with donors at events and activations with a high level of hospitality, with a meaningful presence on weekends and at events.
- Collaborate with the leadership team and Campaign Committee to optimize fundraising strategy and efforts.
- Effectively communicate the mission and vision of the organization, in written and verbal formats, including leading tours and speaking at events.
Development Operations
- Support CRM management and donor acknowledgments/recognition.
- Execute on fundraising strategies – including grassroots and annual giving campaigns
- Support operations for Green Feast (annual gala)
- Support oversight of the membership program
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Donor Cultivation and Stewardship
- Build and maintain meaningful relationships with current and new donors.
- Identify and steward potential donors and strategically solicit donations.
- Implement effective stewardship plans to deepen and grow engagement.
- Engage with donors at events and activations with a high level of hospitality.
- Collaborate with the leadership team and Campaign Committee to optimize fundraising strategy and efforts.
- Effectively communicate the mission and vision of the organization, in written and verbal formats, including leading tours and speaking at events.
- Produce personalized proposals for donors.
- Support CRM management and donor acknowledgments/recognition.
ADDITIONAL TASKS
- Participate in “All Hands On Deck” activities, where all The Ecology Center staff cooperate on a large project, event, educational program, or volunteer days
- Be prepared to lend a hand throughout the organization as needed
CORE REQUIREMENTS
- 1-4 years of non-profit fundraising experience
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships
- Tech-savvy and familiarity with databases/grant portals/CRM
- Incredibly strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills
- Detail oriented
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Positive attitude, resourcefulness, and willingness to learn and grow
- Existing knowledge of and passion for environmental issues and awareness
- Excellent knowledge of professional software, including Word, Excel, Google Docs/Spreadsheets
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to work from The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano
- Must have reliable transportation, and be able to travel distances of up to 50 miles for meetings and events.
APPLICATIONS:
Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with “Donor Stewardship Coordinator” as the email subject.
On Call Server
Location: The Ecology Center
Job Type: Part-Time | Seasonal | Temporary
Compensation: $23/hour
Expected Hours: On Call
About Us
The Ecology Center is a nonprofit Regenerative Organic™ Farm and cultural hub in San Juan Capistrano. We host seasonal meals, community events, and workshops rooted in sustainable food systems, local agriculture, and shared connection. Our Campesino Café is the heart of our food experience—serving fresh, farm-sourced meals in a vibrant, outdoor setting.
Position Overview
We are seeking a warm, reliable Server to join our events team. You’ll play a vital role in delivering meaningful, joyful dining experiences to our guests—whether during an intimate farm dinner or a bustling weekend brunch. This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys nature, community, and intentional hospitality.
Responsibilities
Greet and serve guests during brunches, farm dinners, and community table events
Communicate menu offerings with clarity and care; answer guest questions knowledgeably
Set up and break down tables, dining areas, and outdoor event spaces
Maintain cleanliness and a welcoming atmosphere in all guest areas
Support with light prep or event logistics as needed
Ideal Candidate
2+ years of serving or hospitality experience (required)
Friendly, personable, and reliable under pressure
Comfortable working outdoors and being on your feet for extended periods
Passionate about local food, regenerative agriculture, and community-based hospitality
Team-oriented with a flexible and proactive approach
To Apply
Send your resume and a brief note about yourself to [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you!
Barista
Job Location: San Juan Capistrano, CA
Position Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal
Education Level: High School or GED
Salary Range: $18/hourly+tips
Travel Percentage: Negligible
Job Shift: All
Job Category: Culinary
Description
Overview:
We’re looking for a Barista to join our café team, someone who’s passionate about coffee, food, and hospitality, and inspired by the opportunity to work on a 28-acre regenerative organic farm and education center. As a Barista, you’ll help create exceptional coffee experiences for our guests while surrounded by the rhythms of the farm, the seasons, and a team committed to sustainability, learning, and community.
This is more than a cafe job. It’s a chance to be part of a values-driven environment where every cup you serve is rooted in purpose.
Key Responsibilities:
- Craft consistently excellent espresso drinks, pour overs, and teas according to our café standards
- Take and fulfill customer orders using a POS system with accuracy and care
- Maintain deep knowledge of our food and beverage menu, including seasonal and farm-sourced offerings
- Support smooth day-to-day café operations, including:
- Dialing in espresso and adjusting as needed throughout service
- Keeping the bar, guest areas, and back of house clean, organized, and well-stocked
- Assist in other FOH roles
- Collaborate with team members and communicate clearly with leads and managers
- Be curious and engaged in learning about coffee, hospitality, and the broader mission of the farm
Why This Role is Special:
- You’ll work on a 28-acre regenerative organic farm and education center: a place that grows food with care for the land, teaches future farmers and food leaders, and connects community through good food and drink
- Your daily environment includes open skies, seasonal produce, and a direct link between the farm and the café menu
- Opportunities to learn from chefs, farmers and educators who are shaping a more just and sustainable food system
Qualifications:
- 2+ years of barista experience required
- Friendly, joyful, and team-oriented
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
- Willing to work outdoors
- Available to work weekends and holidays
- Food Handler and/or Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 20 lbs and perform tasks with hands repetitively
To Apply
Send your resume and a brief note about yourself to [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you!
FARMSTAND CASHIER
REPORTS TO: FARMSTAND MANAGER
LOCATION: SJC
POSITION TYPE: FULL TIME, PART TIME
TRAVEL: N/A
PAY: $17-$19
JOB SUMMARY:
As a Farm Stand Cashier, you are the face of The Ecology Center and a passionate, driven, and knowledgeable advocate for our mission. You are responsible for ensuring a fun and friendly customer journey by prioritizing customer needs. You will be expected to speak to our core values, products, and be a proactive and attentive resource to our customers. Key responsibilities include, but not limited to,operating the cash register, stocking shelves, staying up to date on products and seasonal offerings, maintaining a clean and organized store environment while also collaborating with other team members to achieve goals.
REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Bring a positive attitude
- Proactive
- Ability to work a flexible schedule-Weekends must be open
- Ability to operate a cash register and follow all cash handling procedures
- Stocking and making sure to properly rotate products.
- Cleaning and maintaining all front end areas.
- Create a warm and welcoming shopping experience
- Passion for food and people
- Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast paced environment
- Ability to follow directions and procedures
- May assist with training new team members
- Arrives to work on time
- Effective time management and organizational skills
- Upholds government regulations concerning sale of alcoholic beverages and consumption
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience: A minimum of 2 years retail sales or related customer facing experience
- License or Certification: Valid Driver’s License
- Specialized Skills: Word, Excel, Google Docs, Email, Slack
- Physical Requirements: Ability to safely lift moderately heavy equipment (a minimum of 35 lbs) and operate equipment within safety standards
Email resume to [email protected]
Public Programs Educator
REPORTS TO: Education Director, Public Programs Manager
LOCATION: The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, CA
POSITION TYPE: Part- to Full-Time
TRAVEL: (No travel)
JOB SUMMARY:
The Ecology Center is an educational non-profit which runs many public-facing programs for children (and adults), such as our Eco-Tots and Field Trip programs.
Participants explore our diverse ecological landscape with all of their senses. Educators are responsible for creating a safe, engaging, dynamic, “yes” space for very young children to young adults and their teachers, mentors, or guardian(s).
Educators create rhythms, activities, and thoughtfully curated prompts to engage children’s sensory wonder and engage their guardian(s) in conversations aligned with The Ecology Center’s vision and mission.
Educators set a tone of stewardship and presence, hospitality, and work to develop a community who engages in meaningful work that is worthy of imitation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- This position is responsible for maintaining a beautiful and rich outdoor learning classroom/DIY space/playspace for children ranging from 2 months and up. Sessions are two to three hours, featuring a “Grow-Eat-Make” agroecological theme. There are up to two sessions offered per day. In addition, the teacher will greet and interact with children, teachers, and families, encouraging them to engage with onsite activities. The responsibility of the teacher is to provide a nourishing environment for both the children and adults.
- Educators will also create content for and receive Field Trip groups varying in size and age range from TK through higher education.
- The Educators will work collaboratively with our Education Director, Public Program Manager, and support staff to help promote the program, to communicate with prospective clients, and to assist families in learning about other The Ecology Center programs such as Farm Raised, Summer Camp and Festivals.
- Educators will also play a supportive role in the planning, production, and clean-up of our farm-wide festivals, workshops, and community events.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum Qualifications:
- Demonstrate commitment to working out of the values of The Ecology Center.
- Have strong interpersonal skills.
Language Skills:
- Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers and the general public.
- Ability to actively and clearly communicate with supervisors and directors to set goals, review KPIs, accept feedback and make changes to maximize success.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
- Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
Technical Skills:
Applicants must be confident in using:
- Word processing software
- Spreadsheet software
- Email management
- Data entry
- Digital calendars
- Text messaging
- Video conferencing
- Guest Relations software (e.g. check-in app)
Experience:
- Have parent-child class/group teaching experience, or have equivalent work experience.
License/Certification:
- Hold an Early Childhood teaching certification from a recognized institution, or have equivalent work experience.
WORK LOCATION:
In person. Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
COMPENSATION: Ranges from $18 to $23 per hour commensurate with experience.
SCHEDULE:
Day shifts typically from 8a – 3p
Friday and Saturday regularly, plus Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as needed.
Complete an online questionnaire and upload a resume: https://forms.gle/nCYuYqj8Wbew9NXD8
When invited, participate in an on-site or virtual interview and turn in (or mail in) a formal application.
Farm Raised Program Teacher (Grades KG–6 / Main Lesson Teacher)
Location: The Ecology Center, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Position Type: Full-Time, Salaried
Reports To: Education Director
Program Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Friday, Prep and Site Stewardship
Group Size: 12–16 children
Ages: 5–12
Starting Salary: $70,500 annually
- Benefits: The Ecology Center offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the wellbeing, stability, and long-term sustainability of our educators.
- Health Care Benefits – Medical coverage options available for eligible full-time employees
- 401(k) Retirement Plan – With employer participation, supporting long-term financial health
- Paid Time Off – Including school breaks aligned with the Farm Raised program calendar
- Professional Growth – Opportunities for ongoing learning within a collaborative, values-aligned educational community
- Meaningful Work Environment – Daily engagement in a regenerative farm setting alongside mission-driven colleagues
- Benefits details will be shared during the interview process.
Job Summary
Farm Raised is The Ecology Center’s homeschooling enrichment program for children in grades KG–6,
guided by the belief that a farm can become the classroom for the next generation of change makers.
Children learn through meaningful work, seasonal rhythms, and collaboration within a living farm
eco-village. Under the guidance of village teachers, farmers, chefs, parents, and artisans, learning
unfolds through hands-on engagement with the land and community.
Work Schedule
Day shifts, typically beginning at 8am. Weekdays plus weekends as needed. Teachers will play a supportive role in engaging visitors to The Ecology Center and are are key players in the planning, production, and clean-up of our farm-wide festivals, workshops, and community events.
Responsibilities
- Lead daily Main Lessons within an outdoor, farm-based and eco-village classroom.
- Design integrated curriculum inspired by seasonal farming, permaculture ethics, and regenerative agroecology.
- Guide a community of multiage children in meaningful work connected to growing, eating, making, and stewardship.
- Establish and maintain daily rhythms that support focus, warmth, peace, and engagement.
- Collaborate with farmers, chefs, artisans, and fellow educators as a village teaching team.
- Model child-honoring and earth-honoring practices and shared responsibility.
Qualifications
- Waldorf teaching background with some formal Waldorf training preferred.
- Experience serving as a Main Lesson Teacher or equivalent integrated teaching role.
- Familiarity with permaculture principles and hands-on horticulture or agriculture experience.
- Comfort teaching outdoors in all weather conditions.
- California Teaching Credential and/or Waldorf Certification a plus.
- Appreciation for homeschooling, unschooling, and worldschooling approaches, including ideas from Free to Learn by Peter Gray.
- Demonstrate commitment to working out of the values of The Ecology Center.
- Have strong interpersonal skills.
Language Skills:
- Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers and the general public.
- Ability to actively and clearly communicate with supervisors and directors to set goals, review KPIs, accept feedback and make changes to maximize success.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
- Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
Technical Skills:
Applicants must be confident in using:
- Word processing software
- Spreadsheet software
- Email management
- Data entry
- Digital calendars
- Text messaging
- Video conferencing
- Guest Relations software (e.g. check-in app)
How to Apply
Please submit a resume and a brief letter describing your teaching background and what draws you to
Farm Raised. Selected candidates will be invited into a conversational interview process aligned with the
relational nature of our work.