Farm Apprentice Position in Virginia

Posted on October 26, 2018 by Taylor in Apprenticeship, Education, Farming // 0 Comments

Farm Apprentice Position in Virginia for the 2019 Season

The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB) Urban Educational Farm in Staunton, VA is seeking a Farm Apprentice for the 2019 season. The farm is place for students of all ages to learn, play, and grow outdoors. Produce goes to the cafeteria or to faculty/staff at a student-led weekly market. Working in conjunction with weekly outdoor learning classes (CROPS), the farm provides opportunities for students to develop practical skills as well as making connections between themselves and the natural world. The site includes one-acre of vegetable production and an outdoor classroom space—it is currently in the process of expanding with a pollinator garden, apiary, and handicap-accessible raised beds.

The Farm Apprentice will work with the Farm Manager and CROPS Manager to assist in all aspects of fruit and vegetable production on the farm and gardens. The ideal candidate has experience in sustainable vegetable farming.

Primary Farm Apprentice Duties:

– Assists the Farm Manager in organic, sustainable management of all operational aspects of farm production including, but not limited to: plant propagation, cultivation, successional planting, pest and nutrient management, harvesting, processing, quality and quantity control

– Performs regular garden set up and maintenance related to: drip irrigation system operation, infrastructure, compost system, grass cutting, weed management, and mulching.

– Responsible for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness on the farm

– Helps maintain accurate records throughout the season

– Assists with classes and set-up for events on the farm, as needed

– Assists with building projects on the farm

– Meets regularly with CROPS staff to plan and review

Farm Apprentice Requirements:

– Comfortable working outside in physically demanding environments and inclement weather

– Able to lift 50+ pounds and perform repetitive motions including standing, sitting, reaching, lifting, walking, bending, and climbing

– Interest in small-scale sustainable agriculture

– Ability to follow agency policy and procedures

– Strong communication skills and ability to work independently

This is a full-time, 12-month position. Room and board provided. Compensation will be discussed during the interview.

To apply for the Farm Apprentice Position, please submit a cover letter, three references, and resume to the farm manager, Katrina Beitz, at katrina.beitz@vsdb.k12.va.us.

Learn more about farming and food jobs and internships, or how to post a job on internship opportunity on beginningfarmers.org at https://www.beginningfarmers.org/internship-and-employment-opportunities/

Find additional farming resources at https://www.beginningfarmers.org/additional-farming-resources/