Job Opening: Spring Green Field Crew

The Savanna Institute invites applications for a Field Crew member to advance agroforestry by supporting the development and management of Savanna Institute’s Spring Green Campus Home Farms. The Home Farms feature the development of novel tree crop varieties within integrated agroforestry systems. This position will work closely with the Spring Green Campus Farm Director, other Savanna Institute staff, community partners, collaborating farmers/landowners, and farm visitors. 

We seek applicants who share our passion for ecological and equitable agriculture as a nature-based climate solution and who are motivated to widen the circle of who has the opportunity to inform, support, and benefit from its development. To that end, we are seeking a diversity of voices at the table and strongly encourage people of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.

Who We Are

The Savanna Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Madison, WI and Urbana, IL. Established in 2013, we work in collaboration with farmers, businesses, and scientists to lay the groundwork for widespread agroforestry in the Midwest US. Inspired by the native savanna ecosystems that once covered much of this region, we envision a transformed agricultural system, centered on trees and other perennial crops, that fosters ecological resilience, climate stability, economic prosperity, and vibrant, equitable communities. For more information, please visit savannainstitute.org.

Job Description

Hours: full-time

Location: Spring Green, WI

Start Date: June 2, 2025

Salary: $48,000 - $52,000 per year

• This position is eligible for the Institute’s benefits package. Benefits for full-time employees include 20 days of paid time off annually plus 11 civic holidays, 12 weeks of parental/disability leave annually, a dependent care flex spending account, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, and reimbursement of healthcare costs (including ACA marketplace premiums) via an HRA plan.
• This is a full-time, year-round position with flexibility for limited hours during the winter months. Part-time year-round employment will also be considered 
• This position reports to the Spring Green Campus Farm Director

Duties/Responsibilities

• Outdoor fieldwork in agroforestry systems including: general upkeep, maintenance and site management of the four farms. Activities may include: mowing, weed management, ground preparation, tree planting, spraying, harvesting, pruning, chainsaw work, pest scouting, and any other associated field work tasks
• Operating tractor and other field equipment for farm and/or land management operations 
• Supporting the maintenance of all farm operation equipment and infrastructure
• Assist in leading On-Farm Trainees and other seasonal field crew in day-to-day operations 

Required Qualifications

• 3 years farming and land management equipment experience (i.e. tractors and associated implements, mowers, powered hand tools, chainsaws etc.) 
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds 
• Ability to work outside, long hours in challenging conditions
• Commitment to participating in an open and collaborative environment 
• Openness to participating in the development and establishment of new systems
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation 

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with regenerative farming, agroforestry, or perennial agriculture 
• Strong desire and willingness to learn tractor and equipment operations 
• Basic mechanic and carpentry experience
• Chainsaw certification or demonstrated experience equivalent (can train) 
• Strong communication skills 

If you're excited about this job, we're excited to learn about your experience! Please be sure to address each of the following qualifications in your cover letter — paint us a picture of how your unique skills, experiences, and/or education meet or exceed the qualifications. Cover letters should be no longer than 1 typed page. 

How To Apply Submit a resume/CV and cover letter to the position on our jobs page: https://www.savannainstitute.org/jobs/

Deadline All applications must be received by 11:59 pm CT on May 4th, 2025.

Questions? Email Kathleen Fitzgibbon, Assistant Director of Administration, kathleen@savannainstitute.org.

Diversity Commitment

The Savanna Institute affirms the value of diversity of staff and stakeholders, and aims to foster inclusive environments and equitable outcomes of our work. We seek individuals who are committed to these goals.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law.