EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Share this jobEquipment OperatorCedar Circle Farm & Education Center +4 moreDate March 03, 2026Location East Thetford, VTCategory Agriculture / NonprofitJob type Full-TimeCompany DescriptionCedar Circle Farm and Education Center is a nonprofit, certified organic farm located on over 50 acres of conserved land along the Connecticut River in East Thetford, Vermont. Our organization has a deep commitment to developing organic regenerative agriculture systems for our annual vegetable and flower production and to offering educational programming that builds connections between our food, ecosystems, and community.Our farm is a community hub with a farmstand, retail greenhouses, a farm kitchen, a coffee shop, a cut flower garden, education programs, and unique CSA options. It's a place where folks can learn about and deepen their appreciation for organic regenerative agriculture.Our staff is a reflection of our community and is the most essential aspect of our farm. When you join our dynamic team, you'll have the opportunity to make valuable contributions to our greater mission of promoting organic, regenerative farming and the transition to a localized food economy!Job DescriptionSeasonal Full Time, April-OctoberWe are currently seeking an Equipment Operator who is ready to be a vibrant part of our mission to grow healthy and abundant food for our community in an ecologically conscious way.About The PositionWe believe it takes self-initiative, constant and thoughtful communication, a strong belief in the purpose/impact of our work, creativity, and love and appreciation for one another in order to accomplish the challenge that is diversified vegetable farming.The Equipment Operator role works closely with the farm manager to complete all cultivation and field prep strategies on the farm. This includes ensuring that field spaces are prepared for crops including cover crop termination, primary and secondary tillage, and bed formation. Post planting, the Equipment Operator is responsible for identifying, communicating, and performing weeding tasks whether manual or mechanical. They also work with the farm manager to execute the nutrient management plan which includes pre and post planting fertility. Since the Equipment Operator has eyes on the farm at all times, they also work closely with the leadership team to identify harvest goals, and analyze crop health and yield.Furthermore, the Equipment Operator is responsible for developing and fulfilling soil health practices in collaboration with the veg and research manager. This includes preparation for and sowing of cover crop, development of tillage strategy and reduction thereof, and minimization of bare soil while still producing high quality seed beds. The Equipment Operator also works in collaboration with the veg manager to ensure the health and maintenance of all farm equipment and fabrication/procurement of any necessary tools pertinent to the preparation and cultivation of field spaces.Since the team at Cedar Circle is small, the operator role also serves in the day to day needs of the farm alongside the rest of the crew. This includes harvest, transplant, hand weeding, and all other general tasks where time allows.ResponsibilitiesThe following outlines the core responsibilities of the Equipment Operator.Developing and maintaining field plans in collaboration with the veg manager including:Developing a complete schedule of all major field operations prior to first field openingRecordkeeping in compliance with organic standards and as a tool for improving future field management techniquesIdentifying and implementing strategies for soil health managementDeveloping and finalizing crop plans in collaboration with the veg manager and veg leadPreparing Fields, Including Assigning Or PerformingCover crop terminationPrimary tillage using plow, disk harrow, rototiller, or other meansField conditioning using perfecta or other meansBed formation including plastic mulchingManaging Fertility, Including Assigning Or PerformingGreen manure roll-in (in collaboration with veg manager)Application of pre-planting fertility where applicable using a drop spreader or broadcasterApplication of post planting fertility using side dresser or boom sprayerManaging Weeding Tasks, Including Assigning Or PerformingHand weeding tasksMechanical weeding tasksStale seed-beddingTool developmentMaintaining Of Equipment, IncludingFrequent oil, coolant, and grease checksA general eye towards the state of all pieces of equipment that the Equipment Operator usesRepair or delegation of repair using work order formCreative development of tools that improve success or efficiency of field operation needsMonitoring, in collaboration with the leadership team, the health, abundance of, and readiness for harvest of all production cropsEffective communication with the rest of the Cedar Circle staff and leadershipRepresentation all public facing aspects of the farm, including answering customer questions and helping maintain quality of produce in the farmstandParticipation in and preparation for weekly leadership meetings that outline weekly tasksQualificationsAt least two seasons of previous vegetable farming experienceAt least two years of previous equipment operation experience ideally within the realm of agricultureClear and concise recordkeeping and note taking skillsStrong organizational and time management skillsAbility to take direction, ask for help/clarity, and give/accept constructive feedback on work and techniqueStrong understanding of basic plant physiology and soil characteristicsClear, consistent communication skillsMechanical aptitude and a creative approach to refining and/or improving mechanical processesAbility to work for long durations in inclement weather - standing, sitting, bending over, or kneelingAbility to lift 40 lbs regularlyCompensationThis is a seasonal position, full-time April through October. The position is paid hourly with flexibility to work outside of standard crew hours. Other benefits include paid sick/personal leave, fresh produce, a 20% discount at our farmstand and cafe, access to an employee assistance program, and a 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer safe harbor match. Pay range is $16-20/hour, depending on qualifications.Compensationthis position is: hourly, $15-20/hrApplication instructionsPlease click here to sign in and view application details.If you are not registered, you'll be prompted to do so. Don't worry, it's free!Deadlineno deadlineApply NowView similar jobsvegetable farming vegetable production organic farming equipment operatorShare this job