Seasonal Sustainable Agriculture Intern

Seasonal Sustainable Agriculture Internship
Company: Araceli Farms
Supervisor: Farm Director / Owner
Classification: Part-Time, Seasonal
Compensation: $16 -$18 Hourly (rate will be reassessed after 30 days)


Season: April – July (with potential extension through fall)
Schedule: 10–20 hours per week, with some weekend availability for farmers markets or farm events

About Araceli Farms
Araceli Farms is a small regenerative lavender farm and agritourism location in Solano County, California. The farm integrates sustainable agriculture, ecological land stewardship, and community-centered experiences.
Our work centers on cultivating a landscape that supports pollinators, native plants, soil health, and meaningful connections between people and the land. In addition to producing lavender and farm goods, Araceli Farms focuses on restoring parts of the farm with California Native Plants and we are currently in the process of planting a food forest. Araceli Farm hosts seasonal events, workshops, and farm experiences that invite visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature, and learn about regenerative agriculture.
We believe that working with the land can be both restorative and educational, and we aim to create an environment where curiosity, hard work, and stewardship are valued. We believe in a reciprocal relationship with our environment not an extractive one.

Position Overview
The Seasonal Sustainable Agriculture Intern is a hands-on, work-based learning opportunity for individuals interested in regenerative agriculture, small-scale farming, and land stewardship.
Interns learn through active participation in the daily operations of a working farm. This includes assisting with crop care, landscape maintenance, animal care, and preparing the farm for visitors and events during the busy lavender season.
This internship emphasizes learning through doing. Interns will work alongside farm leadership and other staff while gaining exposure to the realities of operating a small diversified farm that integrates agriculture, land management, and community experiences.
The role is physically demanding and primarily outdoors. It is best suited for individuals who enjoy working with their hands, learning new skills, and contributing to the care of land and living systems.

Responsibilities

Farm Production & Land Stewardship
Interns assist with a wide variety of seasonal farm tasks, which may include:
Weed management and field maintenance (including weed whacking and mowing)
Planting, seeding, and transplanting crops and native plants
Irrigation setup, monitoring, and maintenance
Pruning, harvesting, and processing lavender
Mulching, soil preparation, and general bed maintenance
Orchard and perennial crop care
Composting and soil health practices

Livestock Care
Assisting with basic goat/sheep care including watering, moving animals, and monitoring pasture areas

Farm Operations
Maintaining clean and organized farm spaces
Caring for and cleaning tools and equipment
Supporting general farm upkeep and property readiness

Agritourism & Farm Experiences
Because Araceli Farms welcomes visitors throughout the season, interns may also assist with:
Preparing the farm for tours, workshops, and lavender harvest experiences
Give tours, lead workshops and lavender harvest experiences
Supporting farmers market preparation or sales when needed (Saturday Mornings)
Helping maintain pathways and public-facing areas of the farm

Learning Opportunities
Interns will gain exposure to:
Regenerative and small-scale farming practices
Perennial crop systems (lavender and orchard crops)
Native plant integration and pollinator habitat
Soil health and sustainable land management
Agritourism and farm-based experiences
The realities of operating a diversified small farm business
Opportunities to learn sales, marketing, branding, planning or other areas of interests if time permits
Interns are encouraged to ask questions, develop new skills, and explore areas of interest related to sustainable agriculture and land stewardship.

Preferred Qualifications
Interest in sustainable agriculture, ecology, environmental science, or food systems
Strong work ethic and willingness to perform physically demanding tasks
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Comfort working around animals, insects, soil, and plants
Ability to work independently while also being part of a small team
Reliable transportation to the farm
Previous farm experience is not required, but a positive attitude and willingness to learn are essential.

Working Conditions
This role involves physical outdoor work and may include:
Lifting up to 40 pounds
Frequent bending, kneeling, and repetitive tasks
Exposure to sun, dust, insects, and varying weather conditions
Use of farm tools and small equipment (training provided)

Our Culture
At Araceli Farms, we strive to cultivate a culture rooted in kindness, inclusivity, and mutual respect. We believe that the energy we bring to the land and to one another shapes the experience of working here, so we lead with compassion, good intentions, and a shared commitment to supporting one another.
Our team operates with a strong sense of independence and accountability. Each person is trusted to take initiative, stay motivated, and hold up their end of the work. We value transparency, open communication, and a collaborative spirit that allows everyone to contribute meaningfully.
We take pride in what we do. Whether tending the fields, preparing for events, or caring for the farm’s daily operations, we approach our work with care, integrity, and a strong work ethic.
Above all, we believe in reciprocity. The land gives so much to us, and we see our role as stewards who give back just as much as we receive. This philosophy guides how we farm, how we work together, and how we show up for our community.

We also do what we can to uplift and empower marginalized communities - we are not only inclusive but we celebrate diversity.

Commitment
This internship runs during the busy growing and lavender season, when consistent attendance and reliability are essential. Interns who demonstrate strong performance and interest may have opportunities to extend their role into the fall season, return in future seasons, get a glowing referral and access to a large network for future roles.

Equal Opportunity
Araceli Farms welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and encourages individuals passionate about land stewardship, agriculture, and community-centered work to apply.

Ideal Schedule
The ideal schedule for this role is Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with participation in the farmers market approximately 1–2 times per month.
During the month of June, additional availability may be needed for lavender season and private events. Preferred availability during this time includes:
Friday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Please note that exact times may vary depending on the needs of private events and farm activities.
These hours represent the preferred availability for the role; however, not all of these days will be required each week.