Founded in 2017, the Mississippi Center for Cultural Production is a community cultural development organization dedicated to supporting the community of Utica, Mississippi. Our mission is to foster a culture of growth and production (food and stories) in our community. We are working to develop programs to increase access to fresh, healthy, and locally sourced food and to help our community remember and tell the stories that contribute to our collective health and wellness.

Program Details:

  • February 1: Application opens 
  • March 1: Application closes
  • April 1: Position starts

Compensation:

  • Full-time $15/hr (18-months)
  • Health insurance
  • Paid vacation (3 weeks total)

Sipp Culture is developing a community centered farm to provide fresh, healthy, and local produce and to support the development of young farmers. In the Spring of 2021, Sipp Culture will launch our Small Farm Apprentice Program to support the development of three young farmers in the Utica area. This 18-month program will provide a nurturing and creative working environment, culturally competent training, and a tailored learning approach for each apprentice. We are interested in developing the whole person as we work with the community to reimagine our local food systems. 

The apprenticeship is a full time position with a salary and health benefits for the full 18-month program. The work will include hands-on learning in agricultural production as well as community engagement opportunities. The commitment is for 18 months. The farm consists of a greenhouse operation, vegetable farming, and in the future we will add both beekeeping and animal husbandry. Some animal experience and\or mechanical skills are helpful but not required.  A strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, a commitment to sustainable and regenerative farm practices, and honesty and dependability are essential. Sipp Culture is committed to sustainable and regenerative farming practices without using commercial fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and other chemical inputs.

While previous farming experience is not a prerequisite, the program is most suitable for those who feel they have a serious vocational interest in farming and/or agricultural development.

We seek apprentices who are self motivated; take initiative; are reliable, responsible, and professional; work well with others and individually; have a good sense of humor; appreciate high quality work/products; are excited about living in community with others; possess a deep respect for others and the land and care about the community of Utica, Mississippi.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be between the ages of 18 – 30
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs
  • Must be willing to work in ALL weather conditions
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

You can apply for this opportunity here. You can also send in a letter of interest along with a resume and 2 references to Carlton Turner, c\o Sipp Culture, 319 White Oak St., Utica, MS 39175 or emailed to info@sippculture.com.  For additional information, call 601-885-5009.

Sipp Culture is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Sipp Culture encourages women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ applicants. Sipp Culture does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected factor.