Job Description
2023 Apprentice Posting
Overview
Since 2007, the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming has trained apprentices in
sustainable vegetable production and humane livestock management on its farm property in
Cold Spring, NY.
In 2022, Glynwood broadened the reach of its farmer training efforts by
launching the decentralized Hudson Valley Apprenticeship, which helps connect farmers in
training with mentor farms in the following counties Columbia, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, and
Ulster.
All apprenticeships affiliated with the program are seasonal paid positions consisting of a
combination of in-field, hands-on experience; mentor education; and an estimated 60 hours of
classroom-based education. This focused curriculum emphasizes practical skill-building for
aspiring professional farmers.
Program Description
The Hudson Valley Apprenticeship (HVA) is a decentralized apprenticeship program.
Apprentices are recruited by both Glynwood and mentor farms, and are interviewed and hired
directly by mentor farmers.
The majority of the apprenticeship activities will take place at host
sites, including in-field experience and education with farmer mentors. While specific systems
may vary by host site, key topics covered (ex: irrigation, transplanting) will be consistent across
all mentor farms.
The entire cohort comes together over the course of the season to engage in approximately 60
hours of classroom-based education, through a combination of online and in-person workshops.
Through this diverse set of learning opportunities, apprentices gain competency in practical
agricultural skills and training in the methods of analysis and planning needed to create and
manage a successful farm business.
Position Details
All apprentices, regardless of host site, will learn the basics of producing mixed vegetables
and/or livestock using sustainable methods. The details of this training will vary by host farm.
See below for an idea of what to expect:
Responsibilities
While specific position descriptions will vary by participating farm, applicants can generally
expect to engage in a variety of field work tasks including greenhouse work, transplanting,
weeding, pruning, trellising, thinning, harvesting, wash/pack, pest management, and irrigation.
Some farms include marketing experience (ex: CSA distribution or wholesale) or experience
specific to their growing practices (ex: no-till).
Core Trainings
All apprentices can expect to participate in the following core trainings:
- Antiracism training
- Business planning and financial management
- Cover cropping
- First aid / CPR
- OSHA General Industry course
- Pest and disease management
- Small engines operation and maintenance
- Soil science and testing
- Team communications
- Tractor safety and operation
Duration
All positions are seasonal, starting in spring (March/April/May) and running through the fall
(September/October/November).
Schedule
Schedules vary by host farm. Positions are either seasonal full-time (~40-45 hours/week, 5
days/week) or seasonal part-time (~15-20 hours/week, 2-3 days/week). Schedules, including
start times, often (but not always) vary by season.
Other Considerations
Housing: Some farms offer housing, while others do not.
Travel: Given the decentralized nature of this apprenticeship, some travel is required. Most
farms will require apprentices to have a reliable means of transportation. A modest travel
stipend is provided.
Compensation
Compensation varies by host farm. All apprentices will be compensated at or above minimum
wage for all hours worked, and will receive compensation in the amount of $20/hour for all
required trainings. Apprentices also receive an educational stipend of $400 towards
supplemental trainings, conferences, or educational materials.
Qualifications
Specific job requirements will vary by farm. Some host sites prefer prior experience, while others
do not. Generally speaking, farmer mentors will be looking for applicants who are some
combination of the following:
- Interested in sustainable agriculture and in environmental/food/social justice
- Passionate about growing food and working outside
- Reliable and responsible
- Observant, curious and eager to learn
- Willing to be part of a team
- Eager to get their hands dirty
- Considering a career in the food & farming system
Able to communicate clearly in English, verbally and in writing Physical Demands
Farm apprenticeships are physically active. Applicants should be prepared to:
- Work in all weather including hot, cold, wet, and muddy conditions
- Be walking, standing, and moving for most of the day
- Bend, crawl, crouch, kneel, lift, and squat
About Glynwood
Glynwood’s mission is to ensure the Hudson Valley is a region defined by food, where farming
thrives. We work to advance regenerative agriculture that benefits the natural environment,
energizes local economies, enhances human health and strengthens rural communities.