Farm Maintenance Assistant Job in WA

Posted on April 26, 2021 by Taylor in Employment // 0 Comments

Farm Maintenance Assistant Job at Oxbow Farm and Conservation Center in Carnation, Washington – 2021

OXBOW’S MISSION

Our mission is to inspire people to eat healthy, sustainably grown food and to steward our natural resources for future generations.

WHAT WE DO

The Center is located on 230 acres of forest and grassland bordered by Western Washington’s Snoqualmie River. We use this mixed landscape to:

Produce food. We cultivate 12 acres of certified organic mixed vegetable crops, herbs, and flowers using agro-ecological principles and engage in research to inform conservation agriculture practices. We grow food for local grocery stores, restaurants, hunger relief, a CSA program, and an on-site seasonal Farm Stand.

Grow native plants. We operate a native plant nursery that uses sustainable growing methods to produce plants for habitat restoration projects and urban landscapes. We share our knowledge to encourage increased production and use of natives in the Pacific Northwest, and beyond.

Connect children to nature. We offer education programs for children pre-K through high school to build environmental literacy and provide students with opportunities to learn about the links between agriculture, conservation, and the environment.

Restore and sustain habitat. We carry out ecological restoration projects and partner with scientists, regional planners, and other environmental organizations to learn how humans can benefit from the land while protecting biodiversity.

Cultivate community. We offer people of all ages opportunities to put their values into action as we promote climate resilience and encourage healthy food systems. We foster community through volunteer opportunities, Membership, a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, workshops & tours, and special events.

FARM MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT JOB OVERVIEW

Oxbow’s Maintenance Assistant splits time between supporting maintenance of mechanical farm equipment and general facility maintenance of a diverse operation. Time will be spent both directly supervised on technical projects and performing independent work such as rough/finish carpentry, diagnosing mechanical equipment and critical systems/ building maintenance. The Maintenance Assistant is also critical in preparing for and recovering from extreme weather events such as flooding or heavy snow. This is a great position for an individual looking to expand their already broad skillset in a wide variety of subjects including: electrical, carpentry, plumbing, mechanical, diesel/gas/small engine repair, irrigation, landscaping, land stewardship, etc.

FARM MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the Site Manager, assist with all aspects of equipment and property maintenance with a focus on preventative maintenance and best ecological practices. Key tasks include:

Property and Facilities Maintenance, 45%

Maintenance of barns, out buildings and plastic growing houses
Build/ modify structures as needed
Perform light renovations of existing spaces
Install landscape features using machines and hand tools
Supervise other grounds keepers and volunteers as needed
Assist/ lead maintenance crew during festivals and events
Help in preparing for and recovering from extreme weather events

Equipment Maintenance, 45%

Repair and servicing farm vehicles, tractors and implements
Develop and implement preventative maintenance protocols
Small engine care/repair
Repair/modify and service of specialized farm equipment
Safely operating large vehicles to move material, equipment and soil around Oxbow
Build and maintain irrigation systems
Care for and maintenance of tools

General, 10%

Ensure Facilities and Maintenance team’s objectives, strategies and messages are aligned with and supportive of Oxbow’s mission and strategic plan
Work cross-functionally with program teams to ensure efficient and effective communication and operations
Represent Oxbow in a positive, professional manner, engaging with and educating visitors about Oxbow’s mission and programs

Perform other duties as needed and assigned by the Site Manager

QUALIFICATIONS

Strong and demonstrated experience with all aspects of general carpentry, including familiarity with different mediums such as wood, metal, cement
Ability to get to Oxbow Farm easily and safely in times of inclement weather
Comfortable dealing with and supporting activities revolving around public engagement
Able to work with a positive attitude: standing, sitting, bending over or kneeling, to lift heavy & awkward objects, up to 60 lbs., perform physical work such as digging or constructing, in inclement weather
Comfortable with ladders and heights
Willingness and capacity to take initiative
Able to take direction, ask for help/clarity when necessary, and accept constructive feedback on work and technique
Clear, consistent communication
Mechanical aptitude
Tractor driving experience a plus, but not necessary
Consistent attention to detail
Must have valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Able to work independently and within a team
Weekend event work is required multiple times throughout the year including on call service during flood and snow events

Additional desired qualities include: environmentally conscious, detail oriented, self-motivated, energetic, and professional.

The Oxbow facilities team is part of a larger non-profit organization. A commitment to Oxbow’s overall mission and working as part of a team is critical.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

Oxbow is committed to cultivating a culture of diversity and inclusion. We value the individual differences, life experiences, and knowledge that our staff members bring to their work and their communities. Valuing diversity is a significant part of our culture, our values, and the success of Oxbow’s mission.

Oxbow provides equal employment opportunities to all staff members and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Oxbow is committed to fostering a racially diverse team. People of color are encouraged to apply.

COMPENSATION

This is a regular, full-time position, paying $16.50-$18.50 per hour, with competitive benefits including: 100% employer paid healthcare, annual dental stipend, generous holiday, vacation and sick pay, and access to food from the fields.

REPORTS TO: Site Manager