Part-Time Organic Grower & Farm Operations Lead

Silverwood Organic Farm; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 42,000; Part time

Job summary

Silverwood Organic Farm is seeking a hands-on, self-directed Part-Time Grower & Farm Operations Manager to oversee the cultivation and harvest of garlic, herbs, perennial flowers, and selected annuals, while maintaining the farm’s grounds, infrastructure, and overall appearance.

A primary focus is to manage planting, care, and harvesting of specialty crops, with independent work and potential supervision of staff and volunteers, preserving the farm’s organic and environmental values.

Qualifications

• Strong experience growing vegetables, flowers, and/or specialty crops in an organized production setting.
• Ability to independently manage crop tasks, prioritize work, and adapt to seasonal needs.
• Experience with garlic production, perennial plantings, and/or flower farming is highly desirable.
• Comfort operating tractors, light implements, and landscape equipment (mowers, weed whackers, hedge trimmers, hand tools, etc.)
• Basic carpentry and general property maintenance skills
• Strong attention to detail and a good eye for what looks clean, organized, and well-maintained, with a strong emphasis on maintaining a beautiful New England farm environment
• Self-starter with strong work ethic, reliability, and problem-solving ability
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a small team
• Good communication skills; ability to receive and apply feedback
• Ability to supervise and work collaboratively with individuals of varying ages and experience levels
• Physically capable of crouching, bending, lifting 30-40 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and adapt to changing priorities
• Punctual and dependable

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute planting, maintenance, and harvesting of specialty crops, including garlic, herbs, perennial flowers, and selected annuals
• Support seasonal crop planning, field preparation, and specialty crop production in collaboration with farm owners
• Maintain perennial beds, specialty crop areas, and overall field health
• Perform mowing, trimming, weed whacking, weeding, planting, tending, harvesting, maintaining fences and edges, and light repairs/maintenance
• Execute all work in accordance with certified organic practices (no use of herbicides, pesticides, or synthetic fertilizers)
• Carry out building and equipment maintenance (painting touch-ups, simple carpentry, installing signage, diagnosing issues, etc.)
• Meet weekly with farm owners to prioritize work, including preparation for crop needs and farm events
• Assist with supervising employees and volunteers, as needed
• Maintain tools and equipment in good working order
• Occasionally assist in preparation for and participation in farm-sponsored events
• Adhere to Organic Certification standards
• Represent the farm professionally and kindly in all interactions with staff, volunteers, and the public

Skills

Hands-on farming

Independent worker

Supervising staff/volunteers

Tractor operation

Carpentry basics

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Tools

Basic landscape equipment

Job description

Silverwood Organic Farm is seeking a hands-on, self-directed Part-Time Grower & Farm Operations Manager to oversee the cultivation and harvest of garlic, herbs, perennial flowers, and selected annuals, while maintaining the farm’s grounds, infrastructure, and overall appearance.

A primary focus is to manage planting, care, and harvesting of specialty crops, with independent work and potential supervision of staff and volunteers, preserving the farm’s organic and environmental values.