Apprentice Farmer Positions in Ohio

Apprentice Farmer Positions for the 2015 Season - Crown Point Ecology Center in Bath, Ohio

Seasonal position, 30 weeks, flexible start time in March or April of 2015, and lasting until October or November 2015 - Full Time Organization Description: Crown Point Ecology Center is green space that matters. On 115-acres located in the rolling hills of Bath, Ohio, Crown Point expresses its mission through organic agriculture and educational programs that integrate four core values: Community, Justice, Spirituality and Sustainability. We strive to be a regional model for sustainable agriculture and environmental education. CPEC believes that ecological land stewardship encourages structural and social change through local food production, positive impacts on the environment, health of all citizens, and local economic development. Learn more and see pictures at www.crownpt.org. Position Summary: In the 2015 season, the farm crew will consist of the farm manager, assistant farm manager, and apprentices.  The Level 1 Apprentices will work with experienced farm staff in seeding, growing, tending, harvesting, and distributing produce on Crown Point’s certified organic eight-acre vegetable farm, which serves a 160-share CSA, the Akron-Canton Food Bank, and other accounts.  Level 1 Apprentices can expect to learn skills necessary for eventually managing their own organic vegetable farms.  Apprentices are involved in all aspects of our operation- from seed to harvest. We look for apprentices who are eager to learn, hard working, take ownership of the farm and their work, like to solve problems, and can think on their feet. The weather, long hours, and the nature of farm work itself can be very challenging; a love of the outdoors, a sense of humor, and good teamwork skills are essential to thriving in this position. People with a demonstrated interest in making a career out of farming are especially encouraged to apply.

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Responsibilities:

• Uses tractors and hand tools to prepare fields, plant, cultivate, and irrigate. Applies nutrient and pest management measures.  Tends greenhouses, cares for farm equipment, tools and supplies.
• Harvests, washes and packs crops for distribution. Keeps records of produce distributed, and maintains safe working and safe food environment.
• Participates in apprentice educational activities, including instruction in tractor operation and maintenance, greenhouse maintenance, workshops, working visits to other farms, special projects, field walks, and more.
• Directs small groups of CSA sharers and volunteers on farm tasks in a professional and upbeat manner.

Desired Qualifications:

• College degree or equivalent in a relevant field (biology, earth science, agriculture, etc.).
• One or more seasons growing vegetables, either in a garden or on a farm.
  • Experience with farm equipment and machinery.
  • Experience cooking/eating diverse fresh vegetables.

Minimum Requirements:

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Maintains a valid driver’s license.
  • Has experience doing outdoor, physical work (e.g. gardening, landscaping, carpentry, trail work, outdoor-based camp counselor, etc.).

Position Details/Working Conditions:

• Hours can vary, based on the weather, season, and requirements of activities.
• Work requires physical exertion and activities such as stooping, bending, lifting and pushing/pulling heavy equipment.  Must be able to lift and carry at least 50 pounds.
• Farm work goes on, even when it is cold, wet, windy, hot, etc.  Apprentices must dress appropriately and be ready to work under challenging weather conditions.
• Farming is not without risk and we take safety seriously. Even so, slip and fall accidents, back injury, equipment-based injuries, etc. can happen.

Benefits:

• $318/week, paid on the 15^th and 30^th each month, for 30 weeks.
• Produce from the farm for personal use, in accordance with farm needs.
• Educational opportunities, including informational lectures, beginning farmer courses, weekly field walks, occasional tours at other farms.
• Six paid vacation/sick/personal days, to be scheduled in advance whenever possible.
• Three paid “working visits” to other area farms, in order to expand the apprentice’s exposure to other agricultural enterprises.
• Rustic housing for up to two apprentices is available on farm.
• Workers’ compensation.

To Apply:

Email (preferred) or snail mail the following materials to farm@crownpt.org or:

Crown Point Ecology Center

P.O. Box 484

Bath, OH  44210

• Detailed résumé that highlights your qualifications for the Level 1 Apprentice position.

• Application form, found on our website at crownpt.org/farm-csa/farm-apprentice-program/
• Optional: a cover letter that fills in any gaps not answered by your resume and application form.

Questions?  Email us at farm@crownpt.org. Thank you for your interest in Crown Point!