Organic Farm Production Assistant Job, Washington State

Organic Farm Production Assistant Job being offered in Washington State, for 2012 Left Foot Organics brings together people with developmental and intellectual disabilities and at-risk rural youth to grow, learn and earn on an organic farm.  A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located just south of Olympia, Washington, Left Foot has been serving the south Puget Sound community since 2002, providing meaningful, paid employment and training in the business of growing and selling quality, fresh, organic produce. Program participants learn organic growing and business skills that open up new career possibilities. They also learn to work as a team, accepting, appreciating and accommodating each other’s differences. Left Foot cultivates about five acres of certified organic land, producing seasonal vegetables and flowers for sale in local markets and distribution to local food banks and meals programs. The Farm Production Assistant is responsible for performing all the tasks associated with cultivation, growing and harvesting on the farm under the direction of the Farm Production Manager, including the maintenance and operation of farm machinery, irrigation and other equipment.  In all assigned tasks, he or she is responsible for ensuring that: 1) the production process meets requirements for organic certification, 2) customer orders are filled accurately and in a timely manner, and 3) produce meets expected quality standards. Click "Read More" below for specific information about the job and how to apply. Do not send applications to beginningfarmers.org.

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SPECIFIC DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Planting, cultivating and harvesting of all crops.
• Participate in implementing nutrient and pest management plans, including composting, manuring, crop rotations and cover cropping.
• Safe and proper operation and maintenance of all farm equipment and vehicles.
• Starting and managing plants in the greenhouse.
• Selling produce at farmers markets and farm stand.
• Teach basic field tasks to staff, crew and volunteers as directed.
• Providing support and supervision to crew members and volunteers as directed.
• Transport equipment, produce, and staff in company or personal vehicle.
• Actively participate in evaluations of crew members as directed.
• Contributes to developing personal work objectives and evaluating work performance, verbally and in writing.
• Responsible for the safety of self and other individuals under your supervision during work hours. Continuously evaluate the physical environment to minimize or eliminate potentially hazardous situations.
• When necessary, redirect and diffuse disruptive, escalating behaviors calmly, using approved, acceptable techniques.
• Attend Left Foot meetings and events in off-farm hours as directed.
• Communicate with customers, crew, staff and volunteers with respect and with consideration for the sophistication of the audience.
• Other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Work will be performed primarily outdoors in the open, as well as in an office, vehicle, cooler, or covered outdoor area in all types of weather.  Physical stressors may include changes in temperature and precipitation, standing for long periods, routinely lifting up to 50 lbs. and occasionally lifting 75-100 lbs., bending, stooping, and squatting.  Psychological stressors may include meeting production deadlines, balancing competing demands, communicating with customers and making decisions under stressful conditions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Two year degree or equivalent experience in horticulture, production agriculture or a related field, and at least one season of commercial organic farming experience
• Proficiency in recordkeeping and knowledge of organic certification requirements
• Proficiency in the use of the web, word processing and spreadsheet software
• Must be flexible, self-directed and motivated, able to work independently and as a member of a team, and readily adapt to change
• Interest in working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• A valid WA State drivers license, minimum Washington State auto liability insurance and good driving record required at time of hire. Experience operating both automatic and manual transmission vehicles.
• Appointment is contingent upon the outcome of a criminal background check.

HOURS AND COMPENSATION:

• Salary starting at $9.50 per hour.
• This is a part time position, with actual hours required varying seasonally and weighted heavily toward the summer growing season.

To APPLY: Send Resume and cover letter addressing relevant experience to info@leftfootorganics.org with “LFO Production Assistant” in the subject line.