Farm Production Coordinator Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
- Date Posted September 24, 2021
- Location Richmond, VT
- Category Agriculture / Nonprofit
- Job type Full-Time
Essential Functions:
Farm Production
- Support all aspects of vegetable production at the Farm at VYCC including soil management, bed preparation, propagation, planting, pest and disease management, weed management, harvesting, and post-harvest activities
- Support all aspects of livestock production at the Farm at VYCC including brooder management, poultry pasture systems, chicken processing, pig care, and daily chores
- Support the maintenance and safe use of farm infrastructure including fencing, irrigation, hoop houses, tractors, mowers, power tools, barns, coolers, and processing equipment
- Support compost production through scheduling materials pickup, communicating with community member participants, and monitoring and managing piles
- Work with Farm Production Manager to purchase and maintain tools, soil amendments, greenhouse supplies, seeds, feed, and irrigation equipment
- Maintain regular and thorough records of production, harvest, and sales, including wholesale and farm stand, both for internal tracking and organic certification
- Work with Farm Production Manager to document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for various aspects of production
- Collaborate with the Farm Production Manager to identify and explore new revenue sources for the Farm at VYCC
Education and People Management
- Collaborate in refining and maintaining safety protocols for different tasks on the farm, including tractor and mower trainings and tool maintenance
- Collaborate with Farm Production Manager and other Food and Farm staff to define and co-lead trainings for Leaders and Members on agricultural skills
- Develop the work plans for production-focused seasonal team and collaborate with Food and Farm Program Staff to support their professional development
- Supervise the seasonal Production Project Lead with goal setting, regular check-ins and work-plan support
- Work with the Farm Production Manager to identify and delegate daily work projects for crews and volunteers
- Mentor farm Members and Leaders, instructing them in specific farm tasks and engaging them in learning about the farm
- Coordinate chore schedule for after hours and weekends; support staff in completing chores
Other Responsibilities
- Orient new staff to the campus and farm if they arrive after hours or during the weekend
- Assist with additional VYCC programs as needed and appropriate
- Participate in Field Staff trainings and Crew Leader trainings
- Attend program events
Desired Skills & Experience
- A minimum two years of experience on a production-oriented farm
- Experience working with young people and interest in youth development
- Knowledge of risk management protocols to ensure safety
- Experience in livestock management
- Proficiency in the safe use and maintenance of tractors or similar mechanical equipment
- Passion for VYCC’s mission and purpose and an ability to communicate this energy to others
- Demonstrated commitment to the values of diversity, inclusiveness and empowerment
- Ability to handle multiple, often competing, priorities
- Flexible, motivated, responsible and willing to both take direction and work independently