Farm Production Assistant Job in VA

Posted on March 3, 2019 by Taylor in Employment, Farming // 0 Comments

PEC Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows Farm Production Assistant Position Description – 2019

Title: Farm Production Assistant

Supervisor: Community Farm Manager

Location: PEC Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows

39990 Howser’s Branch Drive, Aldie, Virginia

Farm Production Assistant Job Classification: Seasonal, Part-time, Non-Exempt

Introduction:

The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that has proudly promoted and protected the natural resources, rural economy, history and beauty of the Virginia Piedmont since 1972. PEC empowers residents to protect what makes the Piedmont a wonderful place, and works with citizens to weigh in on important land use and policy decisions, conserve land, promote strong local agricultural economies, protect air and water quality, celebrate historic resources, build smart transportation networks, promote sustainable energy choices, restore wildlife habitat and improve people’s access to nature.

Farm Production Assistant

The PEC’s Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows will be getting off the ground in 2019. Starting in the spring, we will be producing a variety of vegetables (potatoes, broccoli, squash, etc) in order to provide a consistent supply of fresh produce to food pantries in Loudoun County throughout the growing season. In addition to our production goals, we will be hosting a variety of educational programs and events at the Community Farm, which is located on PEC’s Roundabout Meadows property near Aldie, Virginia. The Farm Assistant will play an integral role in supporting farm operations and assisting with volunteer groups. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in sustainable vegetable production.

Responsibilities:

Assist and coordinate with the Farm Manager with regard to all farm operations including:

Organizing volunteers on planting/harvesting dates
Assure that safety protocols and best management practices are met
Assisting with educational programs as necessary
Preparing fields for planting
Transplanting and direct-sowing of crops
Harvesting
Mowing and field maintenance
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date harvest data
Drip-irrigation installation and maintenance

Qualifications

Strong interest in sustainable vegetable production
Prior on-farm experience preferred, including seed-starting, planting, weeding, irrigation, organic pest management, organic nutrient management, use and care of hand tools, use and care of small equipment (string trimmer, push mower, etc.), record-keeping, and harvesting produce.
Ability to work outdoors, in all weather conditions, with limited facilities
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with a diverse constituency.
Comfortable working with volunteer groups, including youth
Ability to organize, coordinate and manage diverse activities and deadlines.
Demonstrated strong communication skills, both written and oral, including ability to write, edit, and proofread written materials.
Experience with and comfort using Google Suite and Microsoft Office.
Requires minimal supervision.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Ability to lift up to 75 pounds
Background check required.
Positive attitude and willingness to learn

This position is part-time (20 hr/week) and seasonal (April/May- October 31). Work week is flexible but occasional weekends will be required. It is required that the candidate be able to commit to the full season. Housing is not provided.

Compensation

This is a paid, hourly position. $14 per hour

Interested applicants for the Farm Production Assistant Position should email a cover letter and resume to apply@pecva.org.

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