Employment at Featherstone Fruits and Vegetables
November 2006

Featherstone Fruits and Vegetables (FFV) employs 12-15 seasonal farmworkers each year.  Some are general fieldworkers, with broad involvement in most aspects of the production of most crops.  Others have more specific responsibilities in managing different parts of the CSA program, or in coordinating the harvest, packing and shipping of wholesale crops.

Four specific job descriptions are included in this section.  FFV is seeking bright, self-motivated and hard working individuals to fill each of these positions for the 2007 season.

Seasonal farmwork can be physically demanding, mentally and personally challenging, and can lead to burnout.  At the same time it can be exhilarating and immensely satisfying, working with the soil and plants and a diverse group of fun, dedicated folks to produce a high quality crop.  There is no better way to learn farming than to work hands-on in the field on a successful farm.

General Terms

All employees receive a competitive wage based on experience.  Housing is provided on the farm for a number of individuals.  For those choosing to live off the farm, FFV can provide assistance locating and/or paying for housing in the area.  All employees are welcome to as much fresh produce as they can consume and/or preserve during the course of the season.

FFV employees are generally expected to work 50-60 hours / week during the main season (May through October).  There is also work in the spring and late fall for a smaller number of people.  The nature of farming (weather, crop ripening etc.) means that it is difficult to set any weekly schedule in stone, though we try to work 7am-5pm most days.  Occasional evening and/or early morning hours are sometimes necessary. 

Farming is a way of life as much as a job, and we ask that most employees are available to work most of the time.  We also recommend that each employee take time off during the season (at least a couple of long weekends, scheduled well in advance) to recharge the batteries.

Qualifications

Specific qualifications for certain jobs are listed with job descriptions below.

In general, however, we are seeking individuals with strong work habits, both  individually and as part of a larger team.  Good communication skills, flexibility, and a healthy knowledge of and commitment to fresh vegetables (production, promotion and preparation!) are also important.

Most jobs around the farm require some amount of heavy lifting.  Some require the operation of trucks, tractors and other equipment (a clean driving record is helpful).   The farm’s longest serving employees are Spanish speakers, so some working knowledge of Spanish is very helpful (though not absolutely necessary) for the whole crew.

Application Procedure

We ask that all applicants submit a resume or outline of all relevant work experience, along with at least 3 recent references (name, phone number and relationship to applicant).  We will make every effort to contact references and conduct a phone interview within a week of receiving an application.

All applicants are encouraged to visit the farm to get a better sense of the place and the work.  Please contact Jack to make arrangements for farm visits during the winter-  overnight accommodations can be provided for those traveling some distance.

Contact Info :

The farm is located in the scenic bluffs of southeast Minnesota, 10 miles south of Winona and midway between Rochester, MN and LaCrosse, WI ~ about 2 hours from the Twin Cities.

Featherstone Fruits & Vegetables
Phone: 507-452-4244
email: jack@featherstonefarm.com