Employment Opportunities

APPRENTICE/INTERN OPPORTUNIES AT ASGAARD FARM & DAIRY

2012 SEASON

Asgaard Farm & Dairy is recruiting up to 4 apprentices/interns for the 2012 season.  There are opportunities at this diversified family farm to work either on the general farming side of the business or in the creamery making Asgaard's award-winning cheeses.

Farming:  Apprentices/interns will participate in a broad range of activities, including multi-species rotational grazing (goats, cattle, layers, broilers, pigs); feeding, monitoring, and caring for the animals; milking the goats; on-farm chicken processing; egg production; grain and hay production; helping with farmers markets; maintenance and repair of buildings and equipment; and working in the garden.

Previous farm experience and familiarity with farm equipment are desirable, although not required.  Individuals will be working mostly outdoors in variable weather conditions and must be able to lift 50 pounds.

Individuals may seek latitude to research and employ new farming practices with guidance and approval from the owners.

Cheese Making:  Apprentices/interns will be involved in all aspects of the dairy, including cleaning and sanitizing equipment, milking the goats, transferring milk, pasteurizing milk, producing pasteurized and raw milk cheeses, caring for aged cheeses, packaging finished cheeses, and managing the creamery environment.  Individuals may also be called upon to help with farmers markets and work in the garden.

Previous food science training or culinary experience (including familiarity with cheese/cheese making) is desirable, although not required.  A high level of attention  to detail is crucial. Individuals must be able to lift 50 pounds.

Individuals may seek latitude to research and develop new cheese/dairy products with guidance and approval from the owners.

This could turn into a permanent position for the right person.

All apprentices/interns will be involved in regular staff meetings to set priorities, establish work plans, and discuss/solve problems.  Visits to other farms and agricultural enterprises will be encouraged and facilitated.

Hours: The workload and schedule will fluctuate according to seasonal variations in farming activities and market demand for cheese. Hours will sometimes be long and irregular.  Late spring, summer, and early fall tend to be most demanding; the rest of the year less so.  Preference will be given to those who can commit to working a minimum of 10 weeks during the height of the summer season.  An assignment running from May 1 through November 30 would be ideal.

Compensation:  Comfortable housing on the farm (if required) in a charming, pastoral setting.  Two dwellings, each featuring 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, eat-in-kitchen, and living room with shared laundry facilities.  Access to food raised on the farm (chicken, pork, beef, chevon, eggs, goat milk, goat cheese, vegetables).  Hourly wages based on experience.

All apprentices/interns should possess a strong work ethic, cooperative nature, and positive "can do" attitude.  This is a chance to work at a well-regarded farm with a cohesive and highly motivated group of people who are passionate about healthy, delicious food that comes from sustainable, local agriculture.

Please email your resume along with a statement of why you are interested in one or both of these opportunities to rhonda@asgaardfarm.com by March 15, 2012.