Farm Educator

Job Description

Job Description

About Us, and About You

The HEAL Project (THP) is a nonprofit organization providing hands-on programming that instills healthy lifestyle habits in elementary school children while inspiring environmental and agricultural awareness through a comprehensive, interactive curriculum. Our vision is a world where everyone understands the connection between our food, our health, and our environment. 

We operate school garden sites at elementary schools throughout San Mateo County as well as the San Mateo County School Farm, a 2-acre working educational farm in El Granada, California where we grow vegetables, berries, cut flowers, and culinary herbs. Produce is primarily used for educational programming, and is also sold at the Coastside Farmers’ Market and donated to local food security organizations. We serve over 5,000 students annually throughout our program sites.

The HEAL Project is seeking a warm, enthusiastic Farm Educator to join our team. This part-time, flexible position is a great fit for anyone who wants to make a meaningful impact on children’s learning.

This role is perfect for someone who:

• Enjoys working with children

• Values time outdoors

• Wants to be part of a supportive, mission-driven community

• Is looking for a flexible schedule.

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A four-year bachelors degree in any field

• Demonstrated comfort with kids and group management

• Experience working independently with minimal supervision

Farm Educators lead engaging, hands-on field trip and camp experiences for elementary school students at The HEAL Project Farm in El Granada, CA. Programs run from March through November , and no hours are guaranteed outside of these months.

During the school year, educators generally work 15-25 hours per week , from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, with shifts available Monday - Friday, with occasional Saturday opportunities.

During the summer, educators lead summer camp programming and generally work 40 hours per week , from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, with shifts Monday-Friday. Summer season is not required for a candidate who would prefer to work a school year schedule only.

Using THP’s established, award-winning curriculum, educators guide students in exploring science, gardening, nutrition, and environmental stewardship. Lessons are active, outdoor, and aligned with state standards, helping students build curiosity, confidence, and healthy habits.

Farm and Nutrition Education (80%)

• Teach engaging, farm-based lessons for children at The HEAL Project Farm

• Lead students in seasonal cooking demonstrations, tastings, and nutrition lessons

• Facilitate activities like planting, weeding, composting, and harvesting

• Create a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment for all students

Program Support & Administration (20%)

• Prepare materials and maintain teaching gardens in collaboration with the THP team

• Track attendance, maintain documentation, and collect surveys and assessments

• Share program updates, photos, and stories for newsletters and social media

• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and training

All candidates must:

• Have access to a personal vehicle and provide valid driver’s license and proof of insurance

• Be able to walk up to two miles and lift/carry up to 40 lbs for 20 feet

• Be comfortable using a computer for program administration tasks

Prior to commencing employment, candidates are required to:

• Pass LiveScan fingerprint background check

• Provide a negative TB test

• Complete First Aid, CPR, and EpiPen training (costs will be covered by THP)

Farm Educators are part of a team of professionals working primarily at our educational farm site in El Granada, CA. They enjoy flexible weekly schedules leading field trips, camps, volunteer days, and other community and educational programs.

In addition to a competitive wage, Farm Educators enjoy the following perks:

• Paid sick & safe leave

• An individual annual professional development stipend

• Ongoing training in trauma-informed and culturally-aware teaching

• A weekly share of fresh produce from the THP Farm during harvest season