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

Oxbow Farm & Conservation 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.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Oxbow is seeking 3 Seasonal Farm Stand Staff for the 2021 season! The Seasonal Farm Stand Staff assist the Retail Sales Coordinator in all aspects of Farmers Market & Farm Stand vending. At two weekly farmers markets in Issaquah and Mercer Island & on-site farm stand in Carnation, the Farm Stand Staff’s responsibilities include booth set up, customer relations and direct sales, cash handling, inventory recordkeeping, and promotion of Oxbow and Oxbow events.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

In collaboration with Retail Sales Coordinator, the seasonal Farm Stand Staff is responsible for the following key functions:

Farmers Market Vending

At both a Saturday and Sunday weekly market:

• Participate in loading of farmers market vehicle with all product, materials, and display supplies needed for the Farmers Market
• Set up and tear down farmers market displays in a timely and organized manner
• Perform all direct retail sales with customers, with a focus on cultivating positive customer relationships
• Manage inventory of product on display and restock, cull, and reorganize as needed throughout the market day.

Farm Stand Vending

On-Site, Saturday and Sunday:

• Independent set up and tear down of farm stand display and Oxbow Farmstand site
• Manage inventory and restocking as needed
• Perform all direct retail sales with customers, with a focus on cultivating positive customer relationships

Sales and Inventory Recordkeeping

• Throughout the market day, accurately track inventory, sales, and shrinkage to inform future harvests
• Participate in reporting of sales and cash collection accurately and according to Oxbow’s Cash Handling procedure

General Responsibilities

• 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
• Support Oxbow during events and monthly public days
• Facilitate/assist with CSA pickup
• Perform other duties as needed and assigned by the Farm Manager

QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent customer service skills and positive demeanor
• Available to work 16-20 hours every weekend starting mid-May and early June thru October
• Physical dexterity and agility necessary in all aspects of the job for safety and efficiency
• Consistent attention to detail
• Ability to lift heavy & awkward objects, up to 50 lbs.
• Work well independently and in a team setting
• Ability to take direction, ask for help/clarity, and accept constructive feedback on work and technique
• Ability to give direction and act in lead role when necessary
• Clear, consistent communication skills
• Ability to work independently and within a team
• Flexible, creative, and able to perform well in diverse conditions and under pressure

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

The Oxbow Farm  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 seasonal, part-time position, paying $15 per hour, with some paid time-off and access to food from the fields.

REPORTS TO: Farm Manager