Entry Level Farm Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hog Island Farm Crew Mission Statement:

Hog Island Farm Crew treats each other with respect, working hard in all conditions with a smile. We utilize communication, organization, efficiency and knowledge to create a high quality product. We work in a team as stewards of Tomales Bay, an ever-changing environment. We stay adaptable and keep each other accountable.

Summary:

The Farm Crew Worker is responsible for aiding the Farm Manager, Grow Supervisor, & the Harvest Supervisor. Specifically, the Farm Crew Worker is responsible for assisting with the day-to-day duties for all aspects of oyster harvesting, planting, and husbandry. A strong applicant should be enthusiastic with labor intensive work, repetitive tasks, working outdoors/on the bay in all weather conditions, and detail oriented. This is an entry level position for an individual who is excited about pursuing a career in aquaculture.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Oyster Harvesting
• Oyster Sorting by Hand
• Oyster Seed Planting and Husbandry
• Oyster Gear Maintenance (repairing various gear types such as bags, racks, tipping bags)
• Operate small and heavy medium machinery such as forklifts, tractors, trucks and boats.
• Assist with environmental clean-up; must be compliant with all regulations.
• Equipment maintenance, which includes cleaning of equipment.
• Keep work spaces clean and organized

Additional Duties:

• Communicate via email and/or verbally with other employees, managers, and guests in English.
• Abide by the Hog Island Company rules, policies, and procedures, including safety trainings and meetings, as defined in the Employee Handbook.
• Report to work in a timely manner and in accordance with the defined schedule.

Measurements of Success:

• Communication is clear and prompt
• Learned efficiency in all tasks; work is both quick and correct, with quality in mind
• Provide timely support to other departments
• Maintain an exceptional record of punctuality and attendance

Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In addition, the individual must be punctual, have a good attendance record, and have reliable means of transportation to work.

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Ability to work in an outdoor marine environment
• Swimming proficiency
• Must be a cultural fit
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Likes having fun
• Ability to work a flexible schedule (occasional overtime & weekends; start time each day can vary with the tide)
• Detail oriented
• Strong communication skills
• Strong critical thinking skills

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Previous oyster aquaculture or general aquaculture experience
• Knowledgeable in Hog Island’s growing techniques, motivated to learn
• Ability to effectively operate a forklift
• Ability to effectively operate power tools
• Boat handling experience

Physical Demands

The Farm Crew Worker is a physically demanding job which includes the lifting in excess of 50 lbs.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is required to:

• Regularly stand, walk, and use hands and arms to perform tasks such as handling, feeling, and reaching. This involves continuous physical activity and manual coordination to effectively manage responsibilities.
• Regularly talk and listen up to 8 hours a day.
• Regularly walk on uneven surfaces.
• Repeatedly and safely lift and/or move items heavier than fifty (50) pounds.
• Regularly walk in mudflats carrying items heavier than fifty (50) pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• The noise level in the work environment is high.
• The work environment entails a fast paced, frequently changing environment in which interruptions are considered normal.
• Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks such as operating dangerous equipment or working with chemicals.
• Work involves minimal exposure to unusual elements such as mild to hot temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
• Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm may be present in the work site environment.

We value thoughtful communication and attention to detail - Please include a cover letter and professional references with your application. Applications missing required materials will not be reviewed.