Summer Farm Aide / Extension Program Worker

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

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In alignment with the mission, programs and initiatives of MSU Extension, delivers research-based information to program participants through various methods and/or provides support and coordination of MSU Extension programs.

Unit Position Summary

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment, which requires all staff to contribute toward a vision for success regardless of title or position within the organization. We strive to create a positive culture, access to resources, and a sense of belonging for staff, partners, and programming participants. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:

• We work together to ensure that programming is available to all audiences, creates meaningful and positive impacts for participants, and demonstrates partnership and collaboration across communities.
• We understand that a welcoming and respectful environment is built through the efforts of everyone.
• We foster an environment that welcomes a broad range of perspectives and experiences, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
• We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and supportive culture.
• We foster an environment that values a range of perspectives, skills, and experiences by working to ensure access to programming for communities.
• We commit to continuous learning and engagement to better serve Michigan residents and meet the evolving needs of communities.
• We recognize that broad accessibility and collaboration are essential elements of our work and are vital to organizational and programmatic success.
• We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching, and feedback toward achieving a vision of success for the entire organization and its staff.
• Together we will achieve success and we commit to these goals in our work, continued education, and ongoing efforts.

Position Summary:

Tollgate Farm, a unique educational farm and nonprofit under Michigan State University, is seeking a Summer Farm Aide to support a variety of summer activities in Novi, Michigan. During the summer, MSU Tollgate Farm & Education Center hosts a range of public programs, activities, events, and seasonal initiatives. 
 
Description of Work/Position Summary:

Michigan State University (MSU) Extension helps people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, communities, and businesses. Tollgate Farm and Education Center provides a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect with the land, deepen their understanding of agriculture and the environment, and develop a sense of stewardship for the natural world.

As part of MSU Extension, Tollgate Farm is a working educational farm located in Novi, Michigan, offering year-round programming focused on agriculture, sustainability, and environmental education. The farm serves youth, families, schools, and the broader public through hands-on learning experiences, seasonal events, and community engagement. Tollgate’s programs include summer day camps, school field trips, community events, and sustainable agriculture initiatives. Visitors enjoy access to gardens, walking trails, and farm animals in a welcoming outdoor setting.

The Summer Farm Aide plays a vital role in supporting daily operations during the busy summer season. Responsibilities include assisting with educational programming, seasonal events and rentals, gardening tasks, animal care, and general farm operations. This hands-on position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, engaging with the public, and contributing to a team environment that supports learning and community connection. The position will require evening and weekend assistance, including working with the Tollgate Garden Volunteers during their Saturday workdays.

Duties –

• Assist in the daily setup, supervision, and cleanup of youth summer camp activities.
• Assist and support the Tollgate Garden Volunteers during their Saturday workdays with garden maintenance and upkeep as directed.
• Support the facilitation of hands-on educational programming in agriculture, gardening, environmental science, and sustainability.
• Assist with the setup and operation of seasonal events, community programs, and facility rentals.
• Greet and assist visitors, campers, and guests to foster a welcoming farm environment.
• Help manage inventory and prepare supplies and materials for programming and events.
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure smooth delivery of programs and farm operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall mission of Tollgate Farm and MSU Extension.

Desired Qualifications

• Interest in agriculture, environmental education, gardening, or animal care.
• Basic knowledge of gardening, composting, and sustainable agriculture practices.
• Previous experience working with youth, in outdoor education, or on a farm.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and perform physical tasks (lifting, bending, standing for long periods).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, especially when interacting with children, families, volunteers, and the public Dependable, flexible, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Proven ability in establishing and working with a diverse network of constituents and community members across race, gender, socioeconomic class, disabilities, and other differences to assist with program development and outreach.
• Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.
• Combination of education and specific, relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and use of appropriate approaches, skills and techniques, which reflect an understanding and awareness of social, cultural and economic diversity of the target population served.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Transportation is the responsibility of the employee.
• Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail/calendaring, distance technology, etc.).
• Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position.

Required application materials:

Resume, Cover Letter, 3 Professional References

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5