Farm apprentices complete the program ready to work on a sustainable mixed-vegetable farm as a Crew Leader, Harvest Manager, Field Manager, or Crew Member. Over the past 13 years, Between 2010 and 2023, 44 farm apprentices graduated from our program and 28 of them (63%) farmed during the 2023 growing season (or were in farm-related degree programs), and 17 of them (42%) were farm owners or farm managers.

We seek to train an inclusive next generation of farmers. Nationwide, 95% of farmers are white, 85% of farmers are men, and the average age of a farmer is 60-years-old. Many other groups are underrepresented. This apprenticeship program seeks to decrease these disparities in representation caused by systems rooted in white supremacy, colonialism, racism, capitalism and sexism. Therefore, we encourage Black, Indigenous, and people of color, women, LGBTQ2SIA people, religious minorities, recent migrants/refugees, people with disabilities who can meet the responsibilities and qualifications, and people from different generational and economic backgrounds to apply. This farm apprenticeship program is designed for people with little or no experience farming.

Farm Apprentices care for four acres of diversified vegetable crops. Zenger Farm is certified organic. We grow over 150 varieties of vegetables on just over two acres where we spend the vast majority of our time. We are also farming a second site called Furey Field that is 0.5 acres for a winter CSA program that is farmed in a no-till way. Farm Apprentices will get experience in both tillage and minimal tillage practices with an emphasis on the main season site.

The core of the Zenger Farm Crew consists of three farm operations staff and four full-season farm apprentices. Short-season interns will join the crew 2 days/week for 8 weeks in the Summer and again in the Fall. Farm apprentices spend much of their time closely mentored by our two farm staff. Similarly, farm apprentices will work closely with, mentor and teach the farm interns when they join the crew. Additionally, farm apprentices will lead volunteers and other work parties.

We provide an immersive and comprehensive education in farming. Farm apprentices will have direct experience in all aspects of our farming operation and will take turns leading projects that are applicable to future farm jobs. The farm apprenticeship includes over 40 hours of classroom instruction in topics such as crop planning, irrigation, seed saving, soil fertility, enterprise budgeting, etc. Farm apprentices will be provided additional opportunities to attend classes and tours at other local farms. While apprentices may occasionally participate in other programming at Zenger Farm the vast majority of their time is spent farming.

Time Commitment

• April 1st – November 14th, Monday – Thursday, 8-10 hours/day

• Field work: Most field work at Zenger Farm is done with hand tools, and includes seeding, amending, transplanting, weeding, irrigating, trellising, pruning, season extension, pest management, harvesting, hauling and washing produce for sale.

• Machinery: Operate and maintain a weed whacker, flame-weeding, 2-wheel tractor (BCS) with various implements, and rare use of a chainsaw.

• Rotating responsibilities in all aspects of our farming operation, such as management of the propagation greenhouse, irrigation, and field preparation; leading planting, harvest, wash and pack; supervising short-season interns and volunteer work parties; staffing CSA pickup and writing newsletters; driving the farm van during restaurant deliveries; and, toward the end of the apprenticeship, a two-week rotation leading the entire crew in all field work.

• A strong commitment to the mission of Zenger Farm.

• Demonstrated interest in farming.

• Intention to maintain continued involvement in the agricultural community by engaging in farm work or the development of a small farm business.

• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds, farm outdoors in all weather conditions including heat, cold and rain to perform the above responsibilities.

• Ability to endure prolonged periods of physical activity, including walking, standing, squating, and repetitive tasks

• Attitude: Positive, driven, flexible and team-oriented.

• Current regular driver’s license.

• We will perform a background check and address any issues on a case-by-case basis – no one should feel discouraged from applying.

• We cannot help with visas or work permits for this program.

• $16/hour paid monthly

• 1 full CSA share

• If housing is a barrier for you to participate in the program, please indicate so when you submit the application