Southeast Organic Center Beginning Farmer Internship
Rodale Institute’s Southeast Organic Center Beginning Farmer Internship program is a multiple-track internship that gives aspiring farmers the knowledge and experience they need to work on an organic farm or start their own operation. This training integrates participants through all aspects of operation of an organic vegetable farm on multiple scales while gearing the curriculum towards becoming a farmer.
This program is intended for individuals with little to no experience looking to gain introductory knowledge about organic farming basics.
Responsibilities could include:
- Seed starting
- Greenhouse & high tunnel production
- Growth chamber set up and operation
- Pest & weed management
- Irrigating & mulching beds
- Introduction to small and large equipment
- Harvesting & processing produce
- Record keeping and basic bookkeeping
- Research plot establishment and maintenance
- Other farm activities as needed
Education program:
Interns will be fully immersed in the day-to-day physical activities for 4-6 months to learn what is needed to be an organic vegetable farmer. The experience incorporates a comprehensive curriculum over the course of the season that focuses on training in organic growing skills. Interns are encouraged to attend all Rodale Institute classroom sessions and off-site farm visits during their internship.
Candidate qualifications:
Applicants should have a positive attitude, be able to lift 50 lbs., and the ability to work in seasonal environmental elements. Candidates must be willing to work in a changing environment with day-to-day flexibility in tasks. Must have a valid US driver’s license.
Other institutional expectations:
To be trustful and respectful to all staff and visitors.
Additional information:
Location: Rodale Institute Southeast Organic Center, 7850 Rico Rd, Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia
Compensation: Interns will be paid $7.25/hour if receiving housing, or $9.50/hour if not receiving housing. Organic produce from the farm is occasionally available during the growing season.
Housing: Communal on-site housing is available for interns. You must notify us in advance if you need on-site housing.
Schedule: Interns work full-time for 16-24 weeks. Internships are available for spring or fall (see chart below). Start and end dates are somewhat flexible, if they land within the given timeframe.
To apply: Please send a cover letter, resume and completed application to the SOC Research Director at kristie.wendelberger@rodaleinstitute.org
Deadlines: Application deadlines are listed below. If you miss a deadline or are interested in an internship that does not meet the minimum duration, please contact us at kristie.wendelberger@rodaleinstitute.org, as exceptions can sometimes be made based on the needs of Rodale Institute.
Internship SeasonTimeframeApplication DeadlineSpringFebruary – JuneOctober 1FallAugust – DecemberJune 1
Application Materials:
- Cover letter (including dates of availability and contact information for 3 references)
- Resume or CV
- Official or unofficial transcript(s)
Please send the cover letter, resume, and transcript to Dr. Kristie Wendelberger at kristie.wendelberger@rodaleinstitute.org. Please indicate which internship you are applying to in the subject line of your email.