Tiny Farm

The Art and Science of Fine Vegetable Production

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Working at Tiny Farm
 
The most significant farm resource is our "labor" team.  We are dependant on the quality, efficiency, and dedication of the team to deliver both quality vegetables and maintain the sustainable nature of the farm.
 
We view "farming" as a profession, Farmers as professionals.
 
The farm is very modern/advanced in its approach to growing vegetables: low energy inputs, novel growing techniques, and intensive crop management form the core strategy.  We grow and sell 52 weeks a year.  Over 90% of the vegetable production takes place in "Hoop Houses" that shelter both the plants and the workers.  Work can be performed - rain or shine.
 
We work 7 days a week, but most Farm Assistants work during the Tuesday-Saturday period.  Schedules are set individually, with most working Tuesday-Friday mornings as the core hours.  Thurdays and Fridays are key days for most, to harvest and prepare for the Farmers Markets we attend.
 
Some members of our team are private contractors that recieve 1099 income, others working at least 20 hours a week can choose to be regular employees.  We have worked with others in the past in partnerships, splitting income.
 
We always strive to pay "sustainable wages", probably much higher than typical farmworkers in NC.  We do not use "interns" to supply free labor - as we all work together to produce products for sale.  While one learns a lot about farming, this is not a training program. 
 
Working conditions are exceptional for a farm, beautiful nature environment, plenty of shelter and shade.  We do encourage you to bring your friends and family to visit and see the good work you do.
 
The ideal candidate(s) will be someone who will remain with us for many years and grow with us.  We support them by paying for seminars and classes that benefit the farm and expand their knowledge.

Farmers - Farm Assistants

(Part-Time, Year-round Positions 12-24/hrs/week)

 

Basics: Understanding that farming is physical work, sometimes requiring working hours in uncomfortable (hot, cold) conditions. Dedication is key to success.

 

·         EFFICIENT production and sales of vegetables using sustainable approaches and modern techniques.  Results are measured by yield, quality, sustainability, environmental impact and economic results.

·         Work within schedules performing tasks in a safe efficient manner.  Emphasis on teamwork and a POSITIVE working environment.

·         Marketing, advertising.  Selling at local farmers markets and to restaurants build loyal customer base for Tiny Farm.

·         Committed to the success of Tiny Farm, willing to build a long-term relationship.   All employees are involves in continuous process improvement.

 

Requirements:  

Positive, respectful attitude, outgoing personality.  Ability to work with the public and project a positive image of Tiny Farm.

 

Exceptional work ethic and task performance.  (We require references that will support above average performance in past jobs.)

 

Possess innovative and solutions oriented approach to problems.  Seek win-win solutions, willing to search, research existing and potential problems.   Mind toward continuous improvements, in both processes and results.

 

Prefer 1-2 years experience on an “organic” (certified or non-certified) farm, involved in all phases of production and management.  A “Farm Assistant” may be hired without prior farm experience if they are committed to listening, learning and following instructions.

 

Willingness to maintain farm logs and other documentation, including data gathering for decision making is a must, as the farm is dependent on data for decision making.

 

Tiny Farm employees cannot be involved, paid or unpaid, in another farm operation that produces vegetables for sale to restaurants, at farmers markets, or CSAs.  Employment in addition to Tiny Farm is permitted as long it does not interfere with farm responsibilities.  Outside activities are encouraged.

 

Flexibility to adapt schedule to meet farm needs. (While we can plan basic schedules, weather, illness of other employees, special needs may cause a necessary change in schedule (both hours and days).

 

Valid Driver’s license, ability to lift 50 pounds, ability to perform all farms tasks without physical impairment.   No allergies or sensitivities to common farm materials, products and livestock.

 

Nice to have:  

Ability to operate farm equipment, tillers, tractors, implements.

 

Experience “building” basic items using hand and small power tools.

 

Experience with production of newsletters, website  materials, graphics, sales materials.

 

Experience with selling or working with the public

 

Potential for long-term employment. 
 
Compensation:

Schedule of average 12-24 Hours/week Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat (Mondays and Sunday scheduled off) spring and summer may require more hours, winter less.  Starting time is early in late spring and summer to avoid heat.  Later in fall and winter due to cold and darkness.   Schedule is based on farm needs. 

 

Attendance at agricultural education events/classes will be approved (as paid time)  as long as no negative farm impact. Cost for tuition will be split 50%/50% between Tiny Farm and employee. We may chose to pay 100% for long-term team members.


An compensation of $8.00-$12.00+/hour is based on experience and education relative to sustainable farming to start. Wages are based on performance to documented standards, real farm experience, and education in the agricultural domain.

 

We do not provide internships or "just learning" positions, after a few week training all workers are expected to meets job performance standards. 

 

This document is neither an offer or contract of any kind.  The “Farmer” will be employed under mutually agreed terms and list of job responsibilities.

 

To apply, please send your resume and availability to tinyfarm@gmail.com