Organic Farmers

Experience working on a farm under the guidance of a veteran farmer is desirable, and growing up in a farm family is a distinct advantage. Mechanical skills and physical strength are needed to do the heavy lifting and machine maintenance required on the job. Business skills are necesssary to determine the best allocation of resources, keep track of income and expenses, monitor changing prices, plan ahead to take advantage of changing supplies and demand, and serve as sales agent for livestock and crops.

Self-motivation, discipline, detail-orientation, and patience are the all-important character traits needed in organic farming. The self-motivation and discipline are called upon on a daily basis, and are especially crucial to have in the beginning years of farming. Waiting for things to grow—both the produce and the business itself—is where patience comes into play. The work is predominantly outdoors in any kind of weather—be it teeming rain, blazing sunshine, bone-shattering cold, or the three deadly H's (hazy, hot, and humid). A good attitude, strong constitution, and openness to continually learn are extremely helpful attributes to have in this job.

A love of the land and strong desire to work with and get closer to nature are a given in this job. Attention to detail while simultaneously juggling multiple tasks is also important on many levels, from managing the crop production and the farm staff, to managing and promoting the business itself and the products. "Dawn to dusk" does not quite cover the hours required to complete the work; the time commitment goes far, far beyond this. Excellent hand-eye coordination is required, as is the ability to safely handle farm equipment one moment and manage farm animals the next. Physical fitness, stamina, and energy are required and tested constantly.