At Shalom Farms we believe everyone deserves access to healthy food. We are a Richmond, VA based nonprofit working together to build healthy communities by growing and sharing healthy food. The food we grow is distributed through our network of programs and partnerships in communities where access to healthy food is limited. As a team, we are passionate about addressing the complex nature of food access issues, committed to being antiracist and to understanding the systemic causes of injustice, and dedicated to bringing about meaningful change.

About the Position

The Packing Associate is a season-long position at Shalom’s 16-acre farm in Powhatan, VA (2676 Venita Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113.) The Packing Associate will be working under the direction of the Powhatan Farm Manager to implement the processes which occur post-harvest. They will be trained as to the quality of produce we expect for each destination, proper washing techniques for every crop, Shalom Farms’ procedures for recording total quantities, and techniques for packing and storage of produce so that it is done neatly, efficiently, and according to the conditions which will best ensure each crop’s longevity and safe transport.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Overall day to day farm responsibilities, including those related to production and packing.
Volunteers (15%)
Managing and working w/crews of lead volunteers on discrete projects, as planned and directed by the Volunteer Coordinator and Farm Manager.
Planning and Data Entry (10%)
Daily, weekly and monthly planning and data entry, as well as meetings.
Other (5%)
Cross-departmental opportunities, and other related assignments as necessary.

Packaging Responsibilities

Under the direction of Farm Manager, fulfill orders for distribution, including packing, sorting, cleaning, washing, and maintaining quality control.
Assist with harvesting in the field when needed.
Keep work area clean and organized.
Help with the general organization and maintenance of all farm equipment and outbuildings when needed.
Meet weekly with the Farm Manager and bi-monthly with the Farm Director.

Volunteer Management

Manage volunteers, interns, and other staff in the packing area.

Planning and Data Entry

Maintain records of produce being harvested, packed, and readied for distribution.
Keep inventory of packing supplies and produce.
Contribute to and participate in morning planning meetings.
Contribute to and participate in Powhatan meetings.

Other

Assist with distribution of produce at Mobile Market, and join other cross-departmental opportunities as they arise.
Contribute to and participate in relevant committee and staff meetings, trainings, etc.
Other related assignments as necessary.

This is a seasonal, 34 hour/week position. It begins in Mid-April and runs to Thanksgiving, plus 2 ad hoc staff development days the first week of December, if available.

Required Qualifications

Interest in farming and/or non-profit direct service work.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Can communicate well, even in stressful situations; comfortable delegating.
Willingness to work hard in difficult weather conditions.
Recognizes produce availability changes and ability to adapt accordingly.
Ability to multi-task.
Detail oriented and highly organized.
Commitment to social justice, anti-racism and the abolition of white-supremacy.
Values diversity and enjoys working with diverse groups.
Ability to work both with groups and alone.
Ability to take initiative and work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to lift 50 lbs. or more repeatedly. Must Have
Packing experience.
Basic math skills.
Ability to be on feet all day.

Nice to Have

Some farm and/or nonprofit experience, or a combination of both.
Supervisory/management experience.
Experience working with diverse groups, including ability to reach across racial, ethnic, generational, socioeconomic, rural/urban, and religious lines.