Garden Manager

Become a part of Pumpkin Hollow, where every seed planted and every moment spent in the garden enriches our lives. We cultivate not just organic food but also a vibrant community and meaningful connections. Come grow with us! Are you passionate about nature and sustainable gardening and believe in the transformative power of organic food and community? If so, we invite you to join the Pumpkin Hollow family this 2025 retreat season! At Pumpkin Hollow, we cultivate more than just an organic garden; we foster a spiritual connection with the earth and each other. Our beautiful retreat center, nestled in the heart of the Taconic Mountains, has been nurturing individuals for over 80 years. Here, we create an environment where growth flourishes—both in the soil and within ourselves. As our Garden Manager, you will be crucial in directing our fresh organic produce initiative. Your days will be filled with engaging activities such as transplanting seedlings, sowing seeds, harvesting lush vegetables, and preparing the garden for winter storage. You’ll be part of an effort that includes managing volunteers, working with our chef to select produce for use, and ensuring that each workday is both fun and productive.

Why You’ll Love This Role

Experience Joy in Nature: Embrace the outdoors as you work with the earth, surrounded by the beauty of our landscape. Each day offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and share that joy with others.

Spiritual Growth: Be part of a community that values respect for all life, with a focus on personal exploration and inner discovery. Our vegetarian way of life means you’ll be part of crafting nourishing meals that celebrate the bounty of our organic produce.

Collaborative Environment: Work alongside dedicated volunteers and permanent staff, gaining invaluable insight while positively impacting our thriving community.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Establish and maintain a vegetable garden to provide food for our visitors during the retreat season.

• Manage daily garden operations, including irrigation, composting, and essential maintenance.

• Coordinate the planning and harvesting of produce with the chef and kitchen needs.

• Supervise garden volunteers and create work plans.

• Purchase materials for the greenhouse and garden upkeep.

• Oversee and ensure the well-being of the garden's ecosystem.

Qualifications:

• Experience in organic produce gardening.

• Proficient with garden equipment.

• Strong ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements: This role requires physical fitness to manage tasks such as lifting up to 50 pounds and working in various weather conditions. A love for hands-on work like planting, weeding, and harvesting is essential!

Compensation:

• Community living with a monthly stipend of $1,200 (taxable).

• Benefits include a private seasonal cabin with a bath, shared kitchen access, utilities, internet, and laundry facilities.