Willowsford Farm is seeking a full-time, seasonal farmer to assist in the day-to-day management and long-term development of its operation in northern Virginia that grows and sells organic produce, pasture raised eggs, and partner products directly to residents of Willowsford and surrounding communities.
The Seasonal Farmer position requires strong work ethic, communication skills, and attention to detail. The Seasonal Farmer will work with a small team to ensure safe production of high-quality products. The Seasonal Farmer must be willing to work hard and enjoy the physical nature of farming. This is an opportunity for individuals aiming to be professional farmers to hone their skills and take on more responsibility as part of a small, fun, and hardworking team.
Summary
Willowsford Conservancy is an integral part of the developing Willowsford community, located in Aldie and Ashburn, Virginia. A non-profit established in 2011, the Conservancy is the steward of over 2,000 acres of open space. Its mission is to support “...the viable, long-term use of the land, integrating farming, recreation, conservation, and education to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Willowsford and the greater community.”
As part of Willowsford Conservancy, Willowsford Farm manages approximately 18-20 acres for vegetable, herb, fruit, and flower production, including high tunnels for winter production. The farm spans three properties, with over 300 acres under the team’s management. The farm is well equipped with machinery, equipment, and facilities, focusing on using mechanization and systemization to be as efficient as possible. The farm grows certified organic produce and raises eggs on pasture. These products are sold through CSA memberships, local wholesale outlets, and through online channels.
Willowsford Conservancy helps residents connect with food, the land, and each other through the Farm and CSA programs, education and recreation programs, and sustainable land management practices. The Farm’s primary goal is to provide high-quality, sustainably grown produce to residents and the greater community. Planned production for 2021 includes 400 CSA vegetable shares, 150 winter vegetable shares, and 450 laying hens.
Reporting to the Farm Manager, the Seasonal Farmer will work closely with a team of year-round and seasonal farmers to help manage operations that support the Conservancy and Community objectives. If desired/appropriate, the Seasonal Farmer will have the opportunity to specialize in an area of the operation, taking over primary management of greenhouse operations, irrigation, cultivation, livestock, or another component of the farm.
Qualifications and Experience
Minimum:
Desired:
Primary Responsibilities
Farm Production
Season
This is a full-time (40-50 hrs/week), seasonal position that runs from April through November.
Compensation
Hourly at $15-17/hour, depending on experience. All farmers have access to fresh produce, eggs, and discounted partner products. Housing stipend is available to qualified applicants.
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Collin Thompson, Farm Manager, at cthompson@willowsfordfarm.
The Seasonal Farmer position requires strong work ethic, communication skills, and attention to detail. The Seasonal Farmer will work with a small team to ensure safe production of high-quality products. The Seasonal Farmer must be willing to work hard and enjoy the physical nature of farming. This is an opportunity for individuals aiming to be professional farmers to hone their skills and take on more responsibility as part of a small, fun, and hardworking team.
Summary
Willowsford Conservancy is an integral part of the developing Willowsford community, located in Aldie and Ashburn, Virginia. A non-profit established in 2011, the Conservancy is the steward of over 2,000 acres of open space. Its mission is to support “...the viable, long-term use of the land, integrating farming, recreation, conservation, and education to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Willowsford and the greater community.”
As part of Willowsford Conservancy, Willowsford Farm manages approximately 18-20 acres for vegetable, herb, fruit, and flower production, including high tunnels for winter production. The farm spans three properties, with over 300 acres under the team’s management. The farm is well equipped with machinery, equipment, and facilities, focusing on using mechanization and systemization to be as efficient as possible. The farm grows certified organic produce and raises eggs on pasture. These products are sold through CSA memberships, local wholesale outlets, and through online channels.
Willowsford Conservancy helps residents connect with food, the land, and each other through the Farm and CSA programs, education and recreation programs, and sustainable land management practices. The Farm’s primary goal is to provide high-quality, sustainably grown produce to residents and the greater community. Planned production for 2021 includes 400 CSA vegetable shares, 150 winter vegetable shares, and 450 laying hens.
Reporting to the Farm Manager, the Seasonal Farmer will work closely with a team of year-round and seasonal farmers to help manage operations that support the Conservancy and Community objectives. If desired/appropriate, the Seasonal Farmer will have the opportunity to specialize in an area of the operation, taking over primary management of greenhouse operations, irrigation, cultivation, livestock, or another component of the farm.
Qualifications and Experience
Minimum:
- Hard working and strong communicator
- Self-directed, and willing to accept and utilize feedback and instruction
- Problem solver, creative thinker, and team player
- Proficient with computers, mobile devices, commonly used software, and office equipment
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Must be able to comfortably lift and/or move 50lbs and work outdoors in all types of weather
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Desired:
- Experience in organic vegetable production with CSA emphasis
- Experience safely operating farm equipment, including tractors, tillage equipment, cultivation equipment, mowers, and other powered equipment.
- Experience working with livestock, including pastured laying hens
Primary Responsibilities
Farm Production
- Assist with tasks related to field production of organically produced vegetables including seeding, transplant production, planting, cultivation, irrigation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling to meet production goals and assure high product quality
- Operate farm equipment and machinery in a safe and efficient manner
- Assist with daily poultry chores, including coop maintenance, pasture management, egg collection, and general livestock oversight
- Assist with harvest, preparation, packing, and distribution of CSA shares, ensuring food quality and food safety standards are met
- Positively represent the Conservancy through customer interactions and product quality
Season
This is a full-time (40-50 hrs/week), seasonal position that runs from April through November.
Compensation
Hourly at $15-17/hour, depending on experience. All farmers have access to fresh produce, eggs, and discounted partner products. Housing stipend is available to qualified applicants.
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Collin Thompson, Farm Manager, at cthompson@willowsfordfarm.
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