Seasonal Farm Crew

Job description

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW From its forest and farmland acreage in the Snoqualmie Valley, Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center cultivates conservation and food security to sustain and enhance the Puget Sound region. As a local nonprofit, Oxbow’s work is rooted in stewarding the land, from growing and donating organic produce, to cultivating and distributing Pacific Northwest native plants, to educating visitors of all ages about the dynamic relationship between conservation, native plants, and the food we eat. POSITION OVERVIEW Oxbow’s Agriculture program strives to foster a resilient, adaptive, and sustainable food and agriculture system alongside our community and environment. It produces certified Organic produce with the goal of strengthening regional food security, stewarding natural resources, and exploring ways that small farms can address environmental challenges. Oxbow cultivates 30 acres of land and produces vegetables for donation in partnership with hunger relief agencies within Greater King County. As a member of the Agriculture Department, Seasonal Farm Crew members work within all aspects of our farming operation, furthering Oxbow’s mission to cultivate conservation and food security to support and sustain a healthy Cascadia region. The Seasonal Farm Crew will cultivate our production fields, high tunnels, and research spaces. Their responsibilities include propagation, weeding, transplanting, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and providing general support to our Agriculture Team. Occasional non-farming related duties may be required, including support for public events. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Vegetable Crop Production Support all aspects of maintaining a Certified Organic mixed vegetable operation Help prepare fields for planting, manage cover cropped areas, and control weeds in field crops and fallow areas Assist in the setup, operation, maintenance, and storage of Oxbow’s irrigation system Support greenhouse and field planting Harvest, Post-Harvest Handling, and processing Harvest produce efficiently and consistently for our hunger relief partners Maintain a high standard for food safety at all steps of harvest and post-harvest handling in accordance with the Food Safety Modernization Act and Organic regulations. Work in the pack shed, including receiving and processing produce General Farm Team Responsibilities Track project time and communicate with crew/team leads if forecast can’t be met Maintain records to remain in compliance with WSDA organic certification requirements Maintain a smooth, timely flow with team members while working through projects Make sound judgment calls on product grading and time management Assist with public engagement and on-site events As necessary, supervise volunteers and gleaners in farm fields Perform other tasks as needed and assigned by the Agriculture Program Manager CORE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS Prior farming experience or interest and enthusiasm in sustainable Organic farming systems Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions applicable to groundskeeping and maintenance work Strong attention to detail with the ability to work efficiently, multitask, and prioritize assignments Ability to receive and incorporate feedback Willingness to ask questions when directions are unclear and communicate when tasks are completed Spanish Language proficiency a plus PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Ability to lift and carry up to 50 + pounds on a regular basis Ability to kneel, crouch, crawl, bend, stoop, and work close to the ground for extended periods Ability to perform repetitive tasks requiring fine motor skills Ability to stand and walk for extended periods over uneven terrain Ability to push, pull, and move equipment, tools, and materials Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including rain, heat, cold, and sun exposure OTHER REQUIREMENTS Successful completion of a background check as a condition of employment Valid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain an acceptable driving record Ability to work a schedule that may include occasional weekends and Oxbow events, depending on the seasonal and annual event calendar 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 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 on the basis of 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 full-time, seasonal, non-exempt (hourly) position with a 3.5-month term ending on December 11, 2026. The pay rate is $23.50 per hour. Oxbow offers competitive benefits, including paid sick time, and all additional benefits will be reviewed with the employee before or upon their first day.