Ecosystem Farm Apprenticeship

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

General Apprenticeship Information:
This apprenticeship program serves as a full immersion in land-based training of all aspects of organic vegetable operation at the Accokeek Foundation’s 8-acre certified organic Ecosystem Farm.

Timeframe: May 13, 2013 until December 13, 2013

Compensation: $1700 per month as well as Foundation-sponsored formal training, informal farm training for a full season, and health benefits.

Areas of Responsibility:

Under the direction of the farm manager, apprentices are expected to share responsibility for and training in the following fields:

• daily chores around vegetable production
• tractor operation and maintenance
• regular observation and control of pests and diseases
• vegetable and flower growing from seeds, seedlings, to transplanting
• use of proper harvesting techniques
• post-harvest handling and packaging
• CSA preparation for 60 shares
• farmers’ market sales
• a to-be-determined apprentice project
• participation in Foundation events and meetings
• tours of the farm for school children and the interested public

Requirements for Consideration: 
It is a must that any person apply to this position with the following skillset:

• desire to learn more about sustainable agriculture
• willingness to work well with others
• time commitment during the growing season

Desired Qualifications and Experience: 
The ideal candidate would possess many of these skills:

• 2-3 seasons of farm experience
• competence with machinery use and maintenance
• farmers’ market retail sales and/or working within a CSA model
• experience in environmental or agricultural education
• knowledge of solar-powered systems or off-grid energy systems

Work Requirements and Conditions

• working in all weather conditions unless it is physically unsafe
• working around large machinery with moving parts
• lifting up to 50 pounds regularly
• lots of walking and working on your feet (or knees or squatting)
• occasional work with livestock

To Apply:

Download the Apprenticeship Application.

Complete and send the apprenticeship application with a cover letter and resume no later than March 15, 2013 to info@accokeek.org. Please use this email to direct any inquiries about the position as well, or call 301-283-2113.

Mail complete applications to:

Accokeek Foundation
Attn: Ecosystem Farm
3400 Bryan Point Road
Accokeek, MD 20607

(Note: The Apprenticeship Application must be completed and submitted for consideration. Resumes submitted without applications will not be considered.)

The Accokeek Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.