Seasonal Farm Crew

ABOUT THE AGRICULTURE PROGRAM

Oxbow’s Agriculture Program 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 research 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 field work with appropriate implements. Occasional non-farming related duties may be required, including support for public events.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Vegetable Crop Production

• Helping to prepare fields for planting, manage cover cropped areas, and control weeds in field crops and fallow areas
• Cultivating vegetable crops efficiently, using appropriate hand tools
• Assisting in the setup, operation, and maintenance of Oxbow’s irrigation system
• Overseeing greenhouse and field planting projects, including construction of necessary field infrastructure to support appropriate crop growth
• Contributing to pest management efforts through row cover management and release of beneficial insects
• Support production systems for specific specialty crops (e.g., cut flowers, salad, tomatoes)

Harvest, Post-Harvest Handling, and processing

• Harvesting of produce efficiently and consistently for a variety of market needs
• Maintaining a high standard for food safety at all steps of harvest and post-harvest handling
• Working in the pack shed, including receiving and processing produce

General Farm Team Responsibilities

• Tracking project time and communicating with crew/team leads if forecast can’t be met
• Participating in crop plan development throughout the season
• Working and tracking in compliance with GAPS/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 product grading and time management
• Guiding occasional farm tours and assisting with public engagement within farm fields
• Providing necessary supervision to volunteers and gleaners in farm fields
• Perform other tasks, as needed and assigned by the Assistant Manager, Agricultural Production

QUALIFICATIONS

• At least two years of previous farming experience
• Small engine operation and experience operating implements preferred
• Excellent time management skills
• Consistent attention to detail
• Positive, energetic interpersonal skills
• 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
• 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.

COMPENSATION

This is a seasonal, full-time position, with a term lasting 3 to 5 months depending on negotiation. The rate for this role is $22/hour and is eligible for overtime (over 40 hrs per week). Oxbow offers competitive benefits including sick time-off, monthly phone stipend, and a annual wellness stipend paid out in the summer. 

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.