Flower Farm Crew Member/Intern Homestead Hill CSA

Hiring Organization: Bardenhagen Berries/Homestead Hill CSA
Employment type: Internship
Job Location: Lake Leelanau, MI
Application Due Date: February 12, 2025

Job Opening: Flower Farm Crew Member/Intern
(Field Production; Harvest & Arrange; Market/Delivery)
Background: Bardenhagen Berries is a 180-acre centennial family farm, located in the heart of Leelanau County in scenic northern Michigan. With approximately seven acres of bearing strawberries, six acres of cherries (sweet and Balaton), and five+ acres of vegetables and cut flowers (marketed through our Homestead Hill CSA since 2015), the farm represents an opportunity to work on and learn about both diverse production methods and marketing strategies. 100% of what we grow is marketed and consumed locally through direct sales at farmers markets, our roadside farmstand, a 100+ member Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, and local wholesale accounts. The farm utilizes integrated pest management (conventional) for fruit, and organic growing practices for vegetables and cut flowers. The farm is verified by the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and is compliant with the Food Safety
Modernization Act (FSMA). Since 2018, a 128-panel solar array offsets 100% electricity of the used on the farm.
Description: A motivated individual is needed to support production and harvest of cut-flower crops for Homestead Hill CSA (primarily flowers, but may occasionally include vegetables or fruit crops), as well as assist with wholesale delivery of flowers and/or Farmers Market sales. Examples of activities related to production include soil preparation, planting, weeding, mowing, managing irrigation, mulching, trellising, record keeping (production activities take place daily). Harvesting activities include picking, cutting, sorting, washing & packing, flower arranging, recordkeeping, etc. Marketing activities include selling at Farmers Markets, and/or assisting with delivery of CSA flower shares and wholesale orders and helping with on farm events (u-pick and classes). There are also a multitude of other miscellaneous jobs. Crew members/interns must be highly motivated, flexible, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. This position is appropriate for individuals interested in cut-flower production, working outdoors, and being part of a team dedicated to producing high quality produce and cut-flowers. When: Full and part-time employment opportunities are available starting as soon as April and extending as late as October. The standard workday starts at 8 AM, but as early as 7 AM during harvest. Priority is given to applicants available to work 40+ hours/week during our busiest season, which runs from mid-May or early June through mid-August. Depending on your interest and time commitment, we will work with you to tailor an internship program.

Requirements:
• Dependable availability during harvest season, on either full-time or part-time basis.
• Be able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs comfortably and work an eight to ten-hour day outdoors in a variety of
weather conditions (rain, wind, heat, cold, sun, etc.).
• Physically capable of working all day in activities that involve lifting, pushing & pulling, walking; frequent stooping
or bending over; or frequent repetitive movements.
• Possess a positive attitude & willingness to learn. Able to work independently, as well as with a team.
• Follows all worker safety and food safety guidelines.
• Driver’s License valid in State of Michigan.
Desired Qualifications:
• Previous experience working on a farm (helpful, not required).
• Detail oriented & pride in the quality of one’s work.
• Ability to clearly communicate & follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to speak Spanish is a plus.
• Ability to problem solve and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
Compensation: $18+/hr, negotiable, depending on previous experience and qualifications. Shared housing available on farm at no cost to full time employees. We offer opportunities for pay increase with increased responsibility and demonstrated value to farm.
To Apply: Send an email letter and resume to bardenhagenberries@gmail.com with your interest, background, and availability. Suggested application window: January thru March.