Company description

Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center is a nonprofit, certified organic farm located on conserved land along the Connecticut River in East Thetford, Vermont. Our organization has a deep commitment to developing regenerative agriculture systems for our fruit, vegetable, and flower production and to offering educational programming that builds connections between our food, ecosystems, and community. On-farm research is ongoing here at Cedar Circle, always informing and guiding our soil health and production practices.

Our farm is a community hub with a farmstand, retail greenhouses, a farm kitchen, a coffee shop, a cut flower garden, education programs, and unique CSA options. It’s a place where folks can learn about and deepen their appreciation for organic regenerative agriculture.

Our staff is a reflection of our community and is the most essential aspect of our farm. When you join our dynamic team, you’ll have the opportunity to make valuable contributions to our greater mission of promoting organic, regenerative farming and the transition to a localized food economy!

Job description

May - December, 40 hrs/week

Our Farm Kitchen prepares a variety of fresh, seasonal foods for our farmstand, Monday Meals Program, and Soup and Dinner CSAs, using primarily organic vegetables grown on the farm. We are seeking a creative and efficient Prepared Foods Assistant to join our kitchen team. This is a five-day-per-week position, including weekends as needed.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Food Preparation & Cooking: Prepare a variety of meals, soups, and value-added products using fresh, organic farm ingredients.
• Packaging & Presentation: Portion, label, and package prepared foods for sale in the farmstand and for CSA programs.
• Inventory & Ordering: Maintain stock of prepared meals and ingredients, assist with inventory tracking, and communicate needs to the Kitchen Manager.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with the Kitchen Manager and Kitchen Lead on meal planning, production schedules, and menu development. Coordinate with the Vegetable Production Team to incorporate available farm-grown ingredients into recipes and reduce food waste.
• Quality & Food Safety: Ensure all food preparation follows health and safety guidelines, including proper handling, storage, and sanitation.
• Kitchen Maintenance & Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and organized workspace, wash dishes, and assist with daily and weekly kitchen cleaning tasks.
• Adaptability & Efficiency: Work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment while maintaining high-quality standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

• At least one year of experience in food preparation, restaurant, or commercial kitchen settings. Experience preparing food in large quantities is a plus.
• Ability to follow and adapt recipes, improvise substitutions, and balance flavors.
• A passion for cooking with fresh, local ingredients.
• Strong time-management skills
• Ability to stay focused in a dynamic kitchen environment.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively, receptive to feedback, and comfortable asking questions as needed.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

COMPENSATION

The Prepared Foods Assistant position is full-time and seasonal, from May through December, with benefits including paid sick leave, fresh produce, and a 20% discount to our farmstand. Pay range is $15-17/hr, depending on experience. Ability to work the full season is a plus.

Compensation

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

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline