About the Role
Over the course of the season, apprentices will learn the following practices and skills through a combination of training, working, and formal lessons:
Crop planning
Seed starting and greenhouse management
Bed preparation
Transplanting and direct seeding
Crop maintenance
Organic pest and weed management
Irrigation systems
High Tunnel management
Harvesting and post-harvest handling of produce
Tracking production/record keeping
CSA distribution
Engaging farm volunteers
Tractor and equipment operation, safety, and maintenance
In addition, apprentices participate in the Hudson Valley Apprenticeship hosted by the Glynwood Center for Food and Agriculture. This program provides 60 hours of educational time throughout the season, mostly during work hours (some evenings). HVA hours are compensated directly through Glynwood as a contractor at a rate of $20/hour.
Additional learning possibilities, based on interest:
Marketing
Non-profit management
Log-grown shiitake mushroom production
Beekeeping
Farm event planning
Support is potentially available for other independent projects
Schedule
Full-time at an average of 40 hours per week in addition to classroom hours. The season runs April 13th through November 15th.
Compensation:
Farm Apprentices will be paid $16/hour and provided with shared on-site housing. Each apprentice is assigned a private room in a three bedroom unit. Apprentices receive 5 days of paid sick time, accrued according to New York State guidelines, as well as 2 unpaid vacation days during the season.
Requirements
Minimum 1 full time season of experience in farming
Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Ability to comfortably lift at least 50 pounds
Basic competency with the Google Suite, including word processing, spreadsheets, email, and calendar
Ability to communicate clearly in English, verbally and in writing
Professional, collegial, direct and non-aggressive communication skills
Capable of both working independently and on a team
We seek responsible, good-natured, hard working individuals who thrive in a fast-paced working environment. The ideal candidate will have a desire to learn and an active interest in food and farming. Prior experience in farming is not required, but an ability and willingness to do demanding physical labor in all weather conditions is essential. Applicants should be able to comfortably lift 50 pounds.
Applicants should have good communication skills and be receptive to feedback. They should have the discipline to work efficiently, both independently and as a team. We seek individuals who will be consistently punctual, arriving at work ready to work.
Phillies Bridge is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and encourage BIPOC and LGBT+ individuals to apply.
To apply:
Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to farm@philliesbridge.org
Prospective apprentices should submit an HVA Interest Form to be evaluated for participation in the program. Glynwood program team will notify you if you are approved. All prospective apprentices will need to apply directly to job postings with the specific farm or farms in which they are interested.
About the Company
Phillies Bridge Farm Project offers practical apprenticeships in small-scale vegetable production using organic methods. We produce mixed vegetables on 5 acres for a ~280 member CSA, and for partnerships with local food access organizations. PBFP provides Farm Apprentices with the foundational knowledge to pursue a career in small-scale vegetable production.
About the organization:
Phillies Bridge Farm Project (PBFP) began in 1995 and is a non-profit educational working farm on 65 acres in New Paltz, NY. Mixed vegetables are produced from 5 acres for a ~280-member CSA, food access organizations, and low-income families through our food justice programs. The educational programs at PBFP offer school children, local youth, CSA members, and the general public opportunities to learn about and participate in sustainable and local food production. PBFP is committed to agriculture that is ecologically sound, community oriented and economically viable. While not certified organic, PBFP uses organic methods to grow high quality produce.