Job description:

JOB SUMMARY

Odyssey Charter School, Inc. is seeking a reliable, hardworking, and heat-tolerant Farmhand / Teacher’s Assistant to support both our working educational farm and student learning programs. This unique hybrid role is ideal for someone who enjoys physical outdoor work, believes in the power of hands-on learning, and is passionate about mentoring students in a garden or classroom setting.
The position is based on our organic school farm, which follows regenerative farming principles to promote soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability. This is an 11-month position that offers a mix of farm labor and youth education support in a dynamic and meaningful school environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Comfortable working in extreme heat and direct sun (temperatures may exceed 95°F daily)
• Prior experience in farming, landscaping, or gardening preferred
• Experience working with children or teens (school, camp, mentoring, etc.) a plus
• Ability to lift 40 lbs and perform physical tasks (kneeling, bending, standing for long periods)
• Dependable, flexible, and able to follow instructions
• CPR/First Aid certification a plus (or willingness to obtain)
• Must pass a background check
• Pay: $16.50 per hour
• Monday–Friday
• Early morning start times (typically 7:00 a.m.) to avoid peak heat
• 11-month position with flexibility based on school calendar and farm seasons

FARMHAND DUTIES (APPROX. 60%)

• Perform daily farm tasks such as planting, weeding, harvesting, mulching, and watering crops
• Operate basic hand tools and small machinery (e.g., seeders, rakes, hoes)
• Care for compost piles and assist with soil preparation and pest management
• Help maintain irrigation systems and adapt tasks to Florida’s intense heat
• Work outdoors in high heat and humidity for extended periods
• Follow organic and regenerative farming practices that support long-term ecosystem health

TEACHER’S AIDE DUTIES (APPROX. 40%)

• Help supervise and support middle school students during garden and farm activities
• Assist with setup, cleanup, and classroom-to-garden transitions
• Provide one-on-one or small group support during lessons
• Reinforce safety protocols and respectful behavior
• Model a strong work ethic, patience, and teamwork in all settings