Our field staff will be expected to develop a wide variety of skills: greenhouse seedling production, field planting, weeding and harvesting, produce deliveries, as well as building and repairing infrastructure. Be prepared for physically demanding work, rain or shine. We are committed to sharing our knowledge and promoting advancement for our employees. We work hard and want to share the rewards of this profession with aspiring farmers.
Responsibilities
- Potting mix preparation and propagation seeding
- Field and greenhouse planting
- Trellising and staking of crops
- Cultivation and weed control
- Organic pest control application and moving of row covers
- Harvesting and crop handling
- Post harvest washing, packing, and basic harvest record keeping
- Farmers market customer service and cash register operation
- Rotating farm chores (harvesting, propagation watering, mowing and farm maintenance)
Qualifications
While some exposure to commercial agriculture is preferred, it is not required as long as one has a good attitude and work ethic.
Our ideal candidate has:
- A serious interest in farming as a lifestyle and/or livelihood
- Physical ability to carry out farm tasks (repetitive tasks, lifting 50 lbs. repeatedly during the day, crouching and bending for long periods)
- Lots of energy and highly motivated
- A mind for efficiency
- Attention to detail and ability to understand and execute quality standards
- Open and positive communication skills
- Willingness to learn
- A friendly personality and willingness to spend time with customers, chefs, and CSA members
- Class 5 Drivers License
- Ability to work outside for long periods of time in all weather conditions
- Be punctual; be prepared to work at the designated time, with the necessary tools, and proper clothing. Closed toed shoes are required at all times on the farm.
- Sense of humour!
Position Details
The Farm Hand position begins May 1st and ends November 1st. We cannot make commitments for work beyond the end date. The work will vary during the season as each change in temperature provides a new focus for the work that needs to be done. We work in a rural community with access to public transit. We share a meal as a crew every week and this is an opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the bounty of the farm.
Two weeks advance notice is required for vacation breaks.
Compensation
We have both full and part-time seasonal positions available. The full-time position will be approx. 40-50 hrs/week, with some room for flexibility if additional help is needed. Availability for weekend markets preferred. Starting wage is $15/hr. with 4% vacation pay and access to farm vegetables.