Careers

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 connections 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 

This is a split position working across all aspects of Oxbow’s agricultural program, spending roughly 20 hrs. with the farm crew and 20 hrs. supporting agricultural sales and outreach. As a Farm Crew member, you work with all aspects of our diversified 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 responsibilities will include propagation, weeding, transplanting, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and other field work as assigned. As Sales Support, you will learn the ins and outs of Oxbow’s distribution channels and help with building harvest sheets, deliveries, volunteer management and customer service. Some training on sales calls and invoicing, as well as direct market interaction will be required for this position.  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 

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 

Sales & Outreach 

• Weekly responsibility for produce delivery or CSA pick-ups 
• Provide necessary supervision to volunteers and gleaners in farm fields 
• Create produce labels, update harvest numbers, and coordinate with Sales Lead on pick sheet creation and pack-shed preparations for harvest 
• Work with Farm Stand staff to sort weekly holdover and organize refrigerated spaces  
• Prepare product for donation and composting and support detailed tracking and logging 
• Extensive use of Excel and some email correspondence with customers and partners 
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure timely harvest, distribution, and invoicing. 
• Opportunity to staff occasional Farmer’s Markets and Farm Stand shifts 

General Farm Team Responsibilities  

• Participating in crop plan development and implementation throughout the season 
• 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 by the Assistant Manager, Agricultural Production

• At least one year of previous farming experience preferred 
• Excellent time management skills 
• Consistent attention to detail 
• Experience with Excel and Office suite a plus 
• Strong writing and communication skills 
• Ability to take direction, ask for help/clarity, and give/accept constructive feedback on work and technique 
• Ability to lift heavy and awkward objects, up to 50 lbs. 
• Ability to work independently and within a team 
• 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 

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/61