Equipment Operator

Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center•East Thetford, VT

10d•$16 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

We are currently seeking an Equipment Operator who is ready to be a vibrant part of our mission to grow healthy and abundant food for our community in an ecologically conscious way. We believe it takes self-initiative, constant and thoughtful communication, a strong belief in the purpose/impact of our work, creativity, and love and appreciation for one another in order to accomplish the challenge that is diversified vegetable farming. The Equipment Operator role works closely with the farm manager to complete all cultivation and field prep strategies on the farm. This includes ensuring that field spaces are prepared for crops including cover crop termination, primary and secondary tillage, and bed formation. Post planting, the Equipment Operator is responsible for identifying, communicating, and performing weeding tasks whether manual or mechanical. They also work with the farm manager to execute the nutrient management plan which includes pre and post planting fertility. Since the Equipment Operator has eyes on the farm at all times, they also work closely with the leadership team to identify harvest goals, and analyze crop health and yield. Furthermore, the Equipment Operator is responsible for developing and fulfilling soil health practices in collaboration with the veg and research manager. This includes preparation for and sowing of cover crop, development of tillage strategy and reduction thereof, and minimization of bare soil while still producing high quality seed beds. The Equipment Operator also works in collaboration with the veg manager to ensure the health and maintenance of all farm equipment and fabrication/procurement of any necessary tools pertinent to the preparation and cultivation of field spaces. Since the team at Cedar Circle is small, the operator role also serves in the day to day needs of the farm alongside the rest of the crew. This includes harvest, transplant, hand weeding, and all other general tasks where time allows.

Requirements

At least two seasons of previous vegetable farming experience
At least two years of previous equipment operation experience ideally within the realm of agriculture
Clear and concise recordkeeping and note taking skills
Strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to take direction, ask for help/clarity, and give/accept constructive feedback on work and technique
Strong understanding of basic plant physiology and soil characteristics
Clear, consistent communication skills
Mechanical aptitude and a creative approach to refining and/or improving mechanical processes
Ability to work for long durations in inclement weather - standing, sitting, bending over, or kneeling
Ability to lift 40 lbs regularly

Responsibilities

Developing and maintaining field plans in collaboration with the veg manager including
Developing a complete schedule of all major field operations prior to first field opening
Recordkeeping in compliance with organic standards and as a tool for improving future field management techniques
Identifying and implementing strategies for soil health management
Developing and finalizing crop plans in collaboration with the veg manager and veg lead
Preparing fields, including assigning or performing:
Cover crop termination
Primary tillage using plow, disk harrow, rototiller, or other means
Field conditioning using perfecta or other means
Bed formation including plastic mulching
Managing fertility, including assigning or performing:
Green manure roll-in (in collaboration with veg manager)
Application of pre-planting fertility where applicable using a drop spreader or broadcaster
Application of post planting fertility using side dresser or boom sprayer
Managing weeding tasks, including assigning or performing:
Hand weeding tasks
Mechanical weeding tasks
Stale seed-bedding
Tool development
Maintaining of equipment, including:
Frequent oil, coolant, and grease checks
A general eye towards the state of all pieces of equipment that the Equipment Operator uses
Repair or delegation of repair using work order form
Creative development of tools that improve success or efficiency of field operation needs
Monitoring, in collaboration with the leadership team, the health, abundance of, and readiness for harvest of all production crops
Effective communication with the rest of the Cedar Circle staff and leadership
Representation all public facing aspects of the farm, including answering customer questions and helping maintain quality of produce in the farmstand
Participation in and preparation for weekly leadership meetings that outline weekly tasks