Beekeeper Contractor - Bees for Buildings Network

Beewise; Emeryville (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

Bees for Buildings in Emeryville, CA is seeking reliable beekeeper contractors to care for hives at client sites across the region. You will visit, inspect, and maintain hives, monitor colony health, and report findings using our digital system.

This is a flexible, part-time, contract-based role suitable for hobbyists, experienced beekeepers, or commercial operators seeking additional income. Travel locally and participate in events or educational activities as needed.

Qualifications

• Beekeeping experience spanning 3+ years or professional level knowledge.
• Solid understanding of hive health, seasonal cycles, and pollinator care.
• Willingness to travel locally and work outdoors in varied conditions.
• Reliable transportation and smartphone reporting ability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine hive inspections and seasonal management.
• Provide updates and photos through reporting system.
• Ensure hive health and stability at client sites.
• Support on-site events and tours when needed.

Skills

Beekeeping experience

Hive management

Reliable transportation

Outdoor work

Public speaking / teaching

Job description

Description

About Bees for Buildings

Bees for Buildings connects businesses and organizations with honeybee hives placed on their properties, helping create healthier ecosystems and stronger communities. Our team manages the installation, care, and storytelling of these hives, inspiring people to take action for pollinators.

We’re building a national network of beekeepers — from passionate hobbyists to experienced professionals — to help maintain and share the story of our hives across the United States.

Role Overview

We’re seeking reliable and enthusiastic beekeeper contractors to help care for Bees for Buildings hives in their local area.

You’ll visit and maintain hives placed at client sites, ensure colony health, and occasionally engage with clients or the public during events or educational programs.

This is a flexible, part-time, contractor-based opportunity ideal for:

• Hobbyists looking to expand their impact and gain professional experience
• Experienced beekeepers seeking additional income or mission-driven work
• Commercial operators interested in community-based partnerships

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct routine hive inspections and seasonal management (health checks, feeding, requeening, pest management, honey harvesting).
• Provide photo and written updates through our digital reporting system.
• Ensure hives are stable healthy.
• Support or lead on-site events such as client tours, educational sessions, or media opportunities (location dependent).

Requirements

Qualifications

We welcome a wide range of experience levels.

Ideal candidates will have some or all of the following:

• Beekeeping experience (from 3+ years of hobby beekeeping to commercial-level expertise).
• A good understanding of hive management, seasonal cycles, and pollinator health.
• Reliable transportation and ability to travel locally.
• Comfort working outdoors in varied conditions.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfort with learning new technology.
• Comfort with basic smartphone-based reporting (photos, notes, etc.).
• (Optional) Experience with public speaking, client engagement, or teaching.

Benefits

What We Offer

• Paid contract opportunities for hive maintenance and educational events.
• Ongoing support from the Bees for Buildings team.
• The opportunity to make a tangible impact for pollinators and communities.

Contract Type

• Independent Contractor (1099)
• Part-time, project-based