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Roots to Work is a project of Sustain: the alliance for better food and farming.

Agroecological Seasonal Grower - Maternity Cover

The Apricot Centre @Huxham's Cross Farm
Dartington, Devon

Posted: 14 Feb 2025

Deadline: 2 Mar 2025

Compensation: £12.60 per hour

Living Wage employer Ethnicity Confident scheme

Paid Full-time Fixed term / contract

Job description

• Location: The Apricot Centre, South Devon
• Contract Type: Full-time (Maternity Cover from 1st May to 31st December 2025)
• Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 3pm
• Salary: £12.60 per hour
• Holiday: 28 days (pro rata)

About The Apricot Centre

The Apricot Centre is a vibrant and values-driven community-focused organisation based in South Devon. We specialise in biodynamic/organic farming, regenerative and agroecological agriculture, and promoting local food systems. Our work spans across food production, farming education, mental health initiatives, and sustainability. We are passionate about working together to create positive change for both people and the planet.

The Role

We are offering an exciting opportunity to join our farm team for an 8-month maternity cover, primarily focused on growing, but with an element of retail work in the packhouse and at our market stall. You will be an essential part of the team, ensuring the smooth running of various farm operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fruit Crop Management (1 day/week): Maintain and harvest a variety of fruit crops, including apples, strawberries, raspberries, and blackcurrants.
• Vegetable Growing (2 days/week): Assist with planting, weeding, harvesting, and general care of high-quality organic fruit and vegetables.
• Plant Raising (1 day/week): Take responsibility for all plant raising for the vegetable operation.
• Packhouse Work (1 day/week): Help with packing orders for our box scheme and wholesale outlets.
• Market Stall Management (approx. 1 day every 3 weeks): Run our market stall in Totnes as cover for the regular person.
• Supervision: Supervise and work closely with one of our trainees for part of the week.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for crops and tasks.
• Liaise with the Sales Team: Ensure smooth communication with the sales team regarding fruit availability.

Key Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working in a commercial horticultural setting, particularly plant raising.
• Experience in customer service, particularly in a retail setting.
• Ability to work independently and manage your own time effectively.
• Strong communication skills with colleagues and customers.
• Good physical fitness, able to work outside in all weather conditions.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• Experience and confidence in supervising trainees.
• Experience with operating horticultural machinery, including a BCS walk-behind tractor.
• Packhouse experience.
• Relevant qualification/training in agroecological or regenerative farming 

What We Offer:

• The chance to work in a supportive and fun environment with a passionate team.
• A good supply of free organic veg, plus a 20% discount from our online shop.
• Opportunities to develop new skills and expand your knowledge in a well-established food and farming business

Application information

Please send your CV and cover letter to dave.wright@apricotcentre.co.uk with the subject line “Seasonal Grower” by 2nd March 2025

Please mention Roots to Work when applying for these jobs