Caretaker(s) at the Solar Living Center - Hopland, CA

Since 1998, the Solar Living Institute has been promoting sustainable living through inspirational environmental education. We do this through workshops, online courses, events, Kids’ Education Programs, an Intern Program, and Tours of the 12-acre Solar Living Center. We accomplish our mission through our family of participants, including, staff, interns, caretakers, volunteers, supports, donors and friends.

SUMMARY The Caretaker(s) works closely with the Site Manager, Groundskeeper, and Site Interns to maintain and improve the Solar Living Centers 12 acre demonstration facilities, grounds and gardens. The Caretaker interfaces with visitors through guided tours and general inquiries, and with interns in a community-living situation. Applications will be accepted until January 10th, 2014 with an anticipated start date of March 17th, 2014. Couples/Partners are strongly encouraged to apply and are the ideal candidates.

RESPONSIBILITES • Give public tours of the SLC • Move gnomon poles on solar calendar in Central Oasis • Assist in the maintaining of all site buildings and gardens • Assist in managing vegetable gardens • Assist with the security and safety of all SLI property and personnel • Maintain restroom cleanliness, stock materials • Empty trash/recycle/compost at 4 outside locations and restrooms • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS • Motivation and enthusiasm for caring for the earth and community, and passing this enthusiasm on to others • Excellent organizational and time management skills • High standard of work ethic and accountability • Experience in speaking and/or presenting to small groups • Experience with living in community with others • Experience with developing and maintaining a vegetable garden • Ability to maintain flexibility within a work plan while completing essential tasks

EXPECTATIONS • Live at the Solar Living Center with others, in community while maintaining a 24 hour presence • Share common space with others living at the Solar Living Center • Work weekends as part of a scheduled 32 hour work week with Wednesdays and Thursdays as days off • Work holidays as needed

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION • Live in one of the natural buildings on site. • Access to Institute workshops on a space -available basis; this is a work-trade position • Discount at Real Goods store • Opportunity to live and work on a functional and beautiful permaculture site with a dynamic mix of people

PHYSICAL DEMANDS • The Caretaker must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. • The Caretaker must be willing and prepared to work in adverse weather conditions.

To Apply Send resume, cover letter, and three references.