Farm Assistant

It's More Than a Job, It's a Calling!

Position: Farm Assistant

Location: Good Shepherd hospital; Barrington, IL.

Registry/PRN – scheduled as needed; 1st shift

Monday-Friday, 4 hours a day

Major Responsibilities:

• Assist with planting, cultivating, harvesting, washing, and packing produce. 
• Help maintain soil health, composting, irrigation systems, and pest management practices. 
• Ensure produce is handled according to food safety and quality standards.
• Operate and maintain hand tools, small machinery, and farm equipment under the guidance of the Farm Management Coordinator. Report equipment needs, malfunctions, or safety concerns promptly. Help set up and repair farm infrastructure such as fencing, raised beds, hoop houses, and irrigation.
• Assist in welcoming and training volunteers, interns, and community members. Provide guidance on safe farming practices and ensure an inclusive, positive environment. 
• Support farm tours, workshops, and community engagement activities as needed.
• Maintain clean and orderly workspaces, including tool sheds, washing stations, and storage areas. Monitor supplies and report shortages to the Farm Coordinator. 
• Assist with record-keeping related to planting, harvests, and distribution.

Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:

• NA

Education Required:

• High School diploma or equivalent. 

Experience Required:

• Experience in farming, gardening, landscaping, or related work (professional or volunteer).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Ability to use farm tools and equipment safely.
• Strong work ethic and ability to perform physical labor outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and follow instructions from the Farm Coordinator.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, crawl, reach above shoulders, and twist frequently throughout the workday.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 lbs. from floor to overhead, lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to chest-level, lift and carry up to 50 lbs. at waist height a reasonable distance.
• Must be able to push/pull with 50 lbs. of force.
• Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job.

Preferred Job Requirements

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Basic knowledge of sustainable or organic growing practices preferred. 
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Access, etc), POS systems, farm recordkeeping  

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.