Company description

Willowsford Farm manages approximately 18 acres for vegetable, herb, fruit, and flower production, including high tunnels for winter production. The farm spans three properties, with over 300 acres under the team’s management. The farm is well equipped with machinery, equipment, and facilities, focusing on using mechanization and systematization to be as efficient as possible. The farm grows certified organic produce and raises eggs on pasture. These products are sold through CSA memberships, local wholesale outlets, and through online channels.

Willowsford Farm is part of Willowsford Conservancy, which exists as an integral part of the developing Willowsford community, located in Aldie and Ashburn, Virginia. A non-profit established in 2011, the Conservancy is the steward of over 2,000 acres of open space. Its mission is to support “...the viable, long-term use of the land, integrating farming, recreation, conservation, and education to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Willowsford and the greater community.”

Willowsford Conservancy helps residents connect with food, the land, and each other through the Farm and CSA programs, education and recreation programs, and sustainable land management practices. The Farm’s primary goal is to provide high-quality, sustainably grown produce to residents and the greater community. Planned production for 2021 includes 400 CSA vegetable shares, 150 winter vegetable shares, and 450 laying hens.

Job description

Reporting to the Farm Manager, the Seasonal Farmer will work closely with a team of year-round and seasonal farmers to help manage operations that support the Conservancy and Community objectives. If desired/appropriate, the Seasonal Farmer will have the opportunity to specialize in an area of the operation, taking over primary management of greenhouse operations, irrigation, cultivation, livestock, or another component of the farm.

Qualifications and Experience

Minimum:

• Hard working and strong communicator
• Self-directed, and willing to accept and utilize feedback and instruction
• Problem solver, creative thinker, and team player
• Proficient with computers, mobile devices, commonly used software, and office equipment
• Valid driver’s license
• Must be able to comfortably lift and/or move 50lbs and work outdoors in all types of weather
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Desired:

• Experience in organic vegetable production with CSA emphasis
• Experience safely operating farm equipment, including tractors, tillage equipment, cultivation equipment, mowers, and other powered equipment.
• Experience working with livestock, including pastured laying hens

Primary Responsibilities

Farm Production

• Assist with tasks related to field production of organically produced vegetables including seeding, transplant production, planting, cultivation, irrigation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling to meet production goals and assure high product quality
• Operate farm equipment and machinery in a safe and efficient manner
• Assist with daily poultry chores, including coop maintenance, pasture management, egg collection, and general livestock oversight

CSA

• Assist with harvest, preparation, packing, and distribution of CSA shares, ensuring food quality and food safety standards are met
• Positively represent the Conservancy through customer interactions and product quality

Season

This is a full-time (40-50 hrs/week), seasonal position that runs from April through November.

Compensation

Hourly at $15-17/hour, depending on experience. All farmers have access to fresh produce, eggs, and discounted partner products. Housing stipend is available to qualified applicants.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $15-20/hr

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline