Now Hiring for 2024!
Rachel Henderson
We’re seeking 1-2 orchard assistants for summer and fall of 2024. Our family farm is located just 8 miles from downtown Menomonie. We grow certified organic mixed fruit, with a heavy focus on apples and other tree fruits. We market locally and in the Twin Cities through a CSA-style fruit share, farmers markets, food co-ops, and other small wholesale accounts. This position is mostly seasonal, with possible limited hours through the winter, and the opportunity to return in future years.
20-40 hours/week, hours are somewhat flexible. We welcome working with students, and can accommodate shorter hours in the fall. We can schedule around classes or another job. Starting pay $14-15/hr.
Must be able to work with a small team, and also be comfortable working independently at times, with instruction. Must be able to work in hot or rainy weather, and come prepared for weather conditions. Excellent position for someone interested in farming, horticulture, natural resources, environmental studies. Most work hours will be spent harvesting, sorting, and packing fruit, but we can offer opportunities to learn and be involved in other aspects of orchard and farm management.
Tasks include
Harvesting — raspberries, blueberries, and currants in July; plums and apples in
August; apples, pears, and raspberries September-OctoberSorting, packing, and preparing fruit for farmers market, CSA share, co-op
Irrigation and care of newly planted trees and shrubs, including weeding and mulching
Pruning, training, and other tree care
Pest monitoring — placing and monitoring traps, scouting for disease, recording notes
Orchard/Fruit experience not required, but some farm/ag experience, or other experience working outdoors preferred. Candidates must be able to work outside for 8 hours/day in various weather conditions, lift and carry 20-25 pounds frequently, and lift up to 40-50 pounds occasionally. Harvesting berries involves kneeling/squatting/bending for long stretches. Harvesting tree fruit may require ladder use. Most work will be outdoors. Packing fruit requires attention to food safety (training provided). Prefer availability from June-October, earlier start dates welcome.
Questions can be directed to Rachel Henderson - henderson.r@gmail.com or 612-280-2438