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Posted in: 2. Work Opportunities
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19/01/2020 at 3:16 pm #25882
Seasonal Field Grower April – November 2019 (The job is fixed-term from April to November, with a month probation period. The contract can be negotiated for recurring terms every year from April to November or as a permanent job in the future.)
Background
This is an excellent opportunity for the right candidate to work and learn about Stockfree organic principles of field-scale food production at an award winning long-established horticultural farm in South Oxfordshire, UK.
We are situated in a beautiful part of the country, with private access to the River Thames and many miles of lovely walks through the Estate and surrounding area. Pangbourne, our nearest town, is two miles away and has direct train access to other areas. The surrounding countryside is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is rich in wildlife and bio-diversity. For more information about our award winning farm visit our website http://www.tolhurstorganic.co.uk
The opportunity
One person full time fixed-term position for candidates keen to learn more about organic principles of field-scale food production. Training will also be given to operate irrigation equipment. Opportunities to attend on-site workshops and seminars.
We attract a lot of interest from people from a wide range of backgrounds who come to see what we are doing here and we are a demonstration farm holding regular seminars and farm walks. Different people turn up to work at odd times so there is a lively atmosphere to the place.
Essential Skills Required
• Practical experience with tractors and machinery
• Simple running repairs/maintenance of equipment
• Team leadership in the field, for planting/hoeing/harvesting operations.
Other requirements
• Flexibility in working hours/days.
• Full UK driving licence
• 2-3 years experience with horticulture is a plus
Responsibilities
The main part of the job is to grow field vegetables on our 17 acres using a range of equipment and tractors. You will also be working alongside our team of 3-7 in the walled garden and fields and be expected to lead the team for field operations. You will sometimes be expected to work alone. Two days each week are harvesting and packing vegetables for our own Box Scheme and wholesale customers and you may be asked to help.
Planting, hoeing, crop tending, mowing/growing green manure and harvesting being the main work, which is varied; it is unusual to be on the same job for more than half a day at a time.
Local deliveries will be expected on odd occasions, using company vehicle. Operating irrigation equipment, you will be trained to do this, using and maintaining farm machinery.Work Hours
The job is fixed-term from April to November, with a month probation period. The contract can be negotiated for recurring terms every year from April to November or as a permanent job in the future.
Hours in general it will be no more than 40 hours per week, but more may be expected during busy periods in the summer.
Occasional weekend work may be needed during the summer.
Hourly Wages and Holiday
Rates of pay are higher than minimum wage and are negotiable. Payment will be made monthly, in arrears.
Holiday entitlement is according to UK Employment Law.
Fringe benefits
Accommodation on site in a three-bedroom shared flat. It is essential that the applicant is prepared to live on site as there are regular tasks during the summer to be seen to.
Vegetables are available free of charge for personal use.
References
References from most recent employers/tutors will be sought at offer stage.
Deadlines
Apply by 4 March 2020
Interviews – 18 March 2020 (Only those selected will be contacted. We regret that we do not offer job applications feedback)
Job offer made – 20 March 2020
Job start – 1 April 2020To apply, please send your cover letter and CV to info@tolhurstorganic.co.uk
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