Farm Crew - Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center

LOCATION: Carnation, WA

CLOSING DATE: open until filled

OPPORTUNITY TYPE: Job

JOB #: 19250

POSTED: January 6, 2023

Description:

THE AGRICULTURE PROGRAM 

Oxbow Farm produces certified organic vegetables with the goal of demonstrating the benefits of locally grown organic produce, strengthening the regional food system in Western Washington, and exploring ways that small farms can address environmental challenges. The farm grows on 30 acres of land and produces organic vegetables for a farm stand, two farmers markets, a CSA program, and wholesale throughout the Seattle region. Oxbow’s produce is marketed in ways that build connection between the community, the land, and food producers, while also being a vehicle to combat systemic food insecurity, grow knowledge, and explore/test practical conservation agriculture techniques.  

POSITION OVERVIEW 

As Farm Crew member, you work within all aspects of our farming operation, furthering Oxbow’s mission to connect people to sustainable food and build a community that will steward our natural resources conscientiously. You will cultivate our production fields, high tunnels, and research spaces and your responsibilities include propagation housework, hand weeding and hoeing, transplanting, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and other field work as assigned. Occasional non-farming related duties may be required, including support for public events. 

COMPENSATION 

This is a non-exempt seasonal, full-time position, paying $21 per hour and is eligible for overtime. Oxbow offers competitive benefits, including paid time-off and a monthly phone stipend.  

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

Vegetable Crop Production  

  • Help prepare fields for planting, transplanting and direct seeding crops, and control weeds in field crops and fallow areas 
  • Assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of Oxbow’s irrigation system 
  • Participate in greenhouse and field planting projects, including construction of necessary field infrastructure to support appropriate crop growth 
  • Support the operation and maintenance of a diversified vegetable and flower operation including weed and pest management, fertilization, seeding and propagation, etc. 

Harvest, Post-Harvest Handling, and processing 

  • Harvest produce efficiently and consistently for a variety of market needs 
  • Maintain a high standard for food safety at all steps of harvest and post-harvest handling. 
  • Work in the pack shed, including receiving and processing produce 
  • Maintain pack-shed to a standard of organization and cleanliness compliant with FSMA food safety regulations 

General Farm Team Responsibilities  

  • Tracking project time and communicating with crew/team leads if forecast can’t be met 
  • Participating in crop plan development and implementation throughout the season 
  • Working and tracking in compliance with FSMA food safety regulations 
  • Maintain records to remain in compliance with WSDA organic certification requirements 
  • Maintaining a smooth, timely flow with team members while working through projects 
  • Making sound judgment calls on quality control and time management 
  • Perform other tasks, as needed and assigned  

 

Skills/Eligibility:

 

  • Previous experience in farms, gardens, or landscaping 
  • Small engine operation and experience operating implements preferred 
  • Excellent time management skills 
  • Consistent attention to detail 
  • Clear, consistent communication skills 
  • Ability to take direction, ask for help/clarity, and give/accept constructive feedback on work and technique 
  • Ability to work independently and within a team 
  • Ability to lift heavy and awkward objects, up to 50 lbs.  
  • Flexible, creative, and able to perform well in diverse conditions and under pressure 
  • Ability to work for long durations in inclement weather – standing, sitting, bending over, or kneeling 

 

How to Apply:

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 based on 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.

https://oxbow.bamboohr.com/careers/60 

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