ENTRY LEVEL FARMER

Position Overview

Burkett Farm in Cary is hiring a full time, entry-level farmer to start by mid-July.

The right candidate will have a strong interest in both cut flower production (which we spend significant time on from early spring though late summer) and vegetable/fruit production. The best fit will have a curious mind, great work ethic and be dedicated to our mission. We need someone who is reliable, diligent and pays close attention to detail and would enjoy working with volunteers.

This person will carry out a wide variety of tasks, from weeding to showing volunteers the best way to wash and pack lettuce. Work will include:

• Planting and caring for annual fruit and vegetable crops

• Weeding (lots, of course)

• Harvesting, washing, and packing produce

• Caring for two flocks of laying hens

• Treating plants for pests and disease

• Maintaining and organizing farm tools and machinery

• Managing and repairing drip irrigation systems

• Safely operating machinery such as tractors, tillers and string trimmers

• Occasionally helping the programming staff educate or give a tour to visitors

• Assisting the Farm Manager with tending of honeybee hives to the extent that interest/experience allows

• Engaging with visitors/volunteers (This is something we do for at least a few hours most weeks. You’ll help lead and train volunteers and occasionally help us educate visitors about what we do and why.)

Qualifications

• A strong interest in sustainable agriculture

• Able to work full days in all weather, from the July heat to the cold November rain

• Able to lift and carry at least 50 pounds and stand, walk, kneel and bend for extended periods of time.

• Comfortable working around potential hazards such as fire ants and other stinging insects.

• You are dependable, honest, and professional.

• You work well both independently and as part of a team.

Compensation is $16-$18 based on experience.

To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Jamie Kennedy Jones, farm manager, at jamiekennedy@burkett.farm.

This organization is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our hiring practices and workplace culture. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will provide reasonable accommodations during the application process for individuals with disabilities.