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Meristem

Farming and Gardening Instructor

Fair Oaks, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic ...

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Meristem information

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$26

$61

How much do meristem jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for meristem in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in plant meristem research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in plant meristem research often encounter challenges such as maintaining the viability of delicate meristem tissue during experiments and staying updated with rapidly evolving biotechnology techniques. Laboratory environments require precise sterile techniques and careful observation to prevent contamination and ensure reproducible results. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—including molecular biologists and agronomists—is essential for translating findings into practical applications. Continuous learning and active participation in academic conferences can help address these challenges and foster professional growth.

What are meristems?

Meristems are regions in plants where active cell division takes place, allowing the plant to grow. These tissues are found in areas such as the tips of roots and shoots (apical meristems) and in the stems or roots (lateral meristems). Meristems are essential for the growth and development of plants, enabling them to increase in height, length, and girth. They are also responsible for the formation of new organs like leaves and flowers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Meristem Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Meristem Specialist, you need a solid background in plant biology, tissue culture techniques, and often a degree in botany, horticulture, or a related field. Familiarity with sterile laboratory environments, growth media preparation, and plant propagation equipment is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure the successful cultivation and propagation of healthy plant materials, which is vital for research, agriculture, and commercial horticulture.

What is the difference between Meristem vs Plant Scientist?

AspectMeristemPlant Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in biology, botany, or related fields; specialized training in plant developmentUsually a degree in plant science, biology, or agriculture; often advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, greenhouses, research farms, or field sitesResearch institutions, universities, agricultural companies, or government agencies
Industry UsageUsed in plant tissue culture, crop development, and horticultureInvolved in plant research, breeding, and ecological studies

While both roles focus on plants, Meristem refers to the specific tissue responsible for plant growth and development, often in a laboratory or horticultural setting. Plant Scientists conduct broader research on plant biology, genetics, and ecology. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the plant industry.

More about Meristem jobs
What cities are hiring for Meristem jobs? Cities with the most Meristem job openings:
What states have the most Meristem jobs? States with the most job openings for Meristem jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Meristem jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Meristem jobs are:
Meristem jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meristem job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Farming and Gardening Instructor

Meristem

Fair Oaks, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

This isn't just a job, it's a calling!

Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. We strive to create a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated. We facilitate the ability of adults with autism to have full and meaningful lives, with ample opportunities for mainstream employment and independent living.


We operate a small college-like campus in Fair Oaks that houses many of our students full-time. Meristem is seeking an experienced Farming/Gardening Instructor to join our team. Are you passionate about gardening, farming, and education? Do you thrive in hands-on environments where you can teach others while working directly with the land? This role offers a unique opportunity to combine agricultural expertise with meaningful educational impact. As the Farming/Gardening Instructor, you will lead seasonal garden planning and operations while working closely with students to develop practical skills in farming and horticulture. You'll help bring the harvest full circle - contributing to meals and shared experiences within the community.


Meristem is a great place to work and grow. We all work together, motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At Meristem, we have a terrific work culture and provide the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting with an amazing purpose.

Our compensation shows how much we value our team!


Salary: $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Medical plus $3k HRA to help offset medical costs
  • Dental, Vision, and 401K
  • Daily Lunch and Snacks provided

Location: 9200 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, with occasional weekend flexibility


Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree - a must
  • Minimum of 2 years' experience in an educational setting
  • Experience working with neurodiverse populations
  • 1-2 years of experience with similar participant groups or relevant background
  • Familiarity with one or more of the following approaches: Transformative Movement Education, Ruskin Mill Therapeutic Craft Education, Waldorf Education - a plus


Job Responsibilities:


Instruction & Student Development

  • Design and deliver curriculum and lesson plans with clear developmental progression
  • Assess student abilities and tailor projects through daily field notes
  • Develop individualized learning plans as needed
  • Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment aligned with Meristem's culture
  • Support onboarding of new students and staff
  • Collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary educational offerings
  • Teach additional program content as required


Garden & Land Management

  • Plan, budget, and schedule seasonal planting and garden modifications
  • Maintain garden spaces with a focus on sustainability and land conservation
  • Perform planting, watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest management
  • Select appropriate plants for the local climate
  • Maintain irrigation systems, tools, and storage areas
  • Harvest and process produce for program use and donation
  • Coordinate with culinary and life skills teams to align planting with program needs


Operations & Collaboration

  • Attend staff meetings, trainings, and check-ins
  • Contribute to a professional growth plan with supervision
  • Engage with parents and the broader community as requested
  • Uphold and contribute to Meristem's organizational culture
  • Support team operations, including coverage when needed
  • Perform additional duties as assigned


Physical Requirements

  • The ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
  • The ability to move in uneven terrain on our campus as needed
  • The stamina to lead a class in different temperate climates (i.e., summer heat and winter chill)


Pre-Employment Background and Drug Test Required