Regenerative farming, Climate mitigation

Position: Livestock Production Assistant
Farm: The New Farm Centre For Climate Action

Location: Creemore, Ontario
Housing: Not on-farm. Nearby: Creemore, Stayner, Collingwood, Alliston, Barrie, Shelburne, Orangeville (map)

The New Farm Centre is a registered charity dedicated to developing, demonstrating and advocating for a regenerative farming system that mitigates climate change, fosters healthy ecosystems and communities, and improves farmer livelihoods. We operate a working organic vegetable farm on 30 acres in Creemore, Ontario to carry out our programs and produce high quality vegetables to sell to restaurants, specialty stores and to Good Food Organizations across south western Ontario.

The livestock production assistant is a Summer Student role responsible for supporting seasonal farm production and daily operations at The New Farm Centre. They will report directly to the Farm Manager and are responsible for multi species livestock management, hauling livestock, farm produce deliveries, facility & equipment maintenance, repairs and other operational tasks. Compensation for this seasonal position is $25.63 per hour.

Qualifications:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• Academic experience such as a degree or diploma in sustainable agriculture, ecological agriculture or soil science is an asset
• Experience in a similar farm or landscaping support role
• Valid Ontario Class G driver's license and the ability to drive a mini van

Duties will include:

• Livestock management including feed, water, paddock movements, fencing, cleaning, etc. for cattle, pigs, turkeys, broiler chickens and hens
• Local deliveries of farm products
• Manure and compost management
• Assisting the Farm Manager and Farm and Education Coordinator as needed with daily farm operations
• As needed, supporting our crew of six seasonal farmworkers with their responsibilities (wash shed, harvesting, weeding, planting, etc)
• Assisting the Garden and Volunteer Coordinator with the production of non-salad crops on the farm, including planting, weeding, and harvesting specialty crops and providing guidance to garden volunteers.
• Provide support for on-farm events, including set up of outdoor furniture and equipment, parking areas, and assisting with farm tours and educational activities when needed.

Skills and Experience:

• Knowledge of agriculture and regenerative growing practices
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team
• Ability to do physical labour outside, for long hours, and lift and carry heavy objects
• Ability to operate a 50HP tractor and ATV

Level of Responsibility:

• Decision Making/Accountability: Works under direct supervision of the Farm Manager and follows established procedures. May escalate complex or sensitive issues to the Chief of Farming Operations & Policy.
• Contacts/Interpersonal Skills: Interacts with staff, volunteers, community organizations and external suppliers. Requires effective communication skills and professionalism in all interactions.
• Supervision Received: Receives direct supervision and guidance from the Farm Manager.
• Supervision Exercised: May provide guidance and support to volunteers on specific tasks.

Working Environment: Work on the farm is typically performed outside, in all weather. Will require regular lifting overhead and in awkward positions, carrying of heavy objects, walking on uneven ground.

Length and Timing of Contract:
May 4 through October 16, 2026. Approximately 50 hours / week

The Livestock Production Assistant will work Sunday - Thursday on the farm, with occasional Fridays and Saturdays and coverage for other farm staff, to be agreed upon in advance.

How to Apply:

Send a cover letter and resume to operations@thenewfarm.ca

Please mention you saw this at FoodWork.ca.

No phone calls or in-person applications please. Applications will be assessed as they are received, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

If you require accommodation for the job application process, please let us know.

While we will do our best to respond to all candidates, we may only be able to notify candidates who are selected for an interview.

The New Farm Centre is working to create belonging, equity, and justice in our organization and work. We encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, women, LGBTQIA2S+ and persons with disabilities and strive to create an inclusive workplace. We value diverse perspectives and will consider relevant life experience alongside professional qualifications when reviewing applications.