Summer jobs, Youth jobs

Hiring: Organic Vegetable and Animal Farm Hand
Type: age 30 & under / May to October (possible extension)
Farm: Equilibrium Acres

Location: near Dundas, Hamilton & Burlington, Ontario
Accom.: Potential on-farm accommodation option available on the farm possible for the duration of placement later in the summer, if commuting from far.

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as an Organic Mixed Vegetable and Animal Farm Hand. This role will involve assisting in various tasks related to the cultivation, maintenance, and harvesting of a diverse range of organic vegetables. The ideal candidate should have a strong work ethic, a love for sustainable farming practices, and a willingness to contribute to a dynamic farming environment.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

1) Vegetable and fruit Farming

• Soil Management: Assist in soil preparation, composting, and fertilization activities, adhering to organic farming principles to maintain soil health and fertility.
• Crop Cultivation: Participate in all stages of crop production, including planting, transplanting, weeding, and irrigation to ensure healthy growth of organic vegetables.
• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor crops for signs of pests and diseases and contribute to implementing integrated pest management strategies using organic methods.
• Harvesting: Aid in the harvesting of various vegetables, ensuring proper handling and storage to maintain freshness and quality.
• Assist in Community Supported Agriculture Veggie Box Operations: Support in preparing produce for sales and distribution, including sorting, packing, and labeling according to quality standards.

• Food Preservation: processing food to prolong shelf life and produce value added products as needed.
• Sales: setting up and running the on farm market and possibly a farmer’s market stand.

2) Animal care

• Feeding and milking cows
• Feeding chickens and collecting their eggs

3) Farm maintenance

• Contribute to general farm maintenance tasks, such as equipment upkeep, maintaining irrigation systems, lawn mowing, snow removal, etc..

Qualifications:

• As part of this posting may benifit from grant funding, the applicant needs to be under 30 years of age.
• Have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN); and
• Be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a person who has been granted refugee status in Canada.
• Previous experience in farming or gardening, especially in organic vegetable production, is advantageous but not required.
• Passion for sustainable and organic farming practices.
• Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to tasks.
• Driver’s license and car is an asset.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to learn and adapt to new farming techniques and technologies.
• Flexibility regarding work hours, especially during peak season.
• Commitment to maintaining cleanliness and organization in work areas.

Benefits:

• $18 per hour.
• Receive weekly fruits and vegetables from the farm.
• Opportunity to learn and grow in organic farming practices.
• Potential to steward certain crops and or have your own plot to manage.
• Competitive wages and potential for growth within the farm.
• Work in a supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Enjoy the satisfaction of contributing to sustainable agriculture and providing fresh, healthy produce to the community.
• Potential on farm accommodation option available on the farm possible for the duration of placement later in the summer, if commuting from far.

This Farm Hand position offers an excellent opportunity to be part of an organic farming operation. If you are passionate about sustainable agriculture and eager to contribute your skills to our farm, we encourage you to apply and be a part of our dedicated team.

To apply, send a CV and cover letter to: adam@equilibriumacres.ca

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