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Farmer in Training (FIT) Program

The Farmer in Training (FIT) Program at SIO is for individuals with a serious interest in gaining the skills necessary to farm. The program provides each participant with the opportunity to spend a season working and learning on a well established 16 acre vegetable farm. The majority of the educational component will be based on learning from the experience of working.

Participants in the FIT program are employees on the farm and are responsible for farm harvest and/or fieldwork. The FIT program will have two tracks – a Field Crew track and a Harvest Crew track. FIT participants will be hired for one of the two tracks. Each crew will work primarily in their own area, however, when deemed necessary the Field Crew may be involved in harvest tasks and/or the Harvest Crew in field tasks. All Fit participants will receive on the job training in various aspects of organic production coupled with hands-on work experience that will comprise the majority of your educational experience. As a compliment to this experience you will be invited to participate in various educational opportunities related to food and farming.

Ideal candidates are interested in the experience of working on an efficiency focused, highly organized, 16 acre vegetable farm. A desire to work hard while learning the how to's of farming is essential. Previous farm experience is desirable but not essential.

Requirements and Compensation

• Participants in the FIT Program generally work 45-hours per week.
• Participants are compensated at Oregon minimum wage.
• Field Crew must be able to begin work on April 13th and work through October 29th (29 weeks).
• Harvest Crew must be able to begin work on May 4th and work through December 10th (32 weeks).

To Apply

If you are interested in this position please email your complete application package to siorganics@aol.com. Once we have reviewed your materials we will contact qualified applicants for a half day on-farm work interview. You must be able to do an on-farm visit to be considered.

Applications accepted until positions are filled.

Application Package

• Cover letter including the answers to:
  1. How does an agricultural experience such as this program fit into your 5 year plan?
  2. Why do you think the FIT program is a good match for you?
  3. What previous agriculture experience do you have?
  4. What if any physical limitations you may have that might affect your ability to perform certain tasks. Many jobs require light to heavy lifting (up to 60lbs), repetitive grasping and standing, bending, kneeling and walking. Severe hay fever or other allergies should also be considered. (No application will be rejected because of a condition or impairment that, with reasonable accommodation, does not prevent performance of work.)
  5. Do you have a clean driving record (include drivers license number)
  6. Can you commit to a minimum of 7 months?
• Resume with contact information for past employers (preferably email addresses)