Apprentice & Farm Worker
The Apprentice & Farm Worker Program helps to connect farms with individuals interested in working on a farm. Vermont farms offer exciting learning opportunities whether you are looking for a more structured experience (apprenticeship) or general farm work (farm worker).
Please note that this program is not affiliated with Willing Workers on Organic Farms (WWOOF).
Information for Applicants
→ Register Here to apply & view the directory
The NOFA Vermont on-line directory provides up to date information to help you find a situation that fits the farming experience you are looking for. The directory profiles over 60 farms looking for apprentices and farm workers and provides information that may help you locate the appropriate apprenticeship.
The directory allows you to view the apprentice opportunities and communicate with the farmer directly. We encourage you to take some time to visit the farm where you are interested in working and meet the farmer who you will be working with, as the success of your experience often hinges on the host-apprentice relationship. NOFA Vermont does not provide a placement or matching service but we are happy to serve as a resource if you have questions or concerns along your search.
Register to view our on-line directory free of charge. It is then your responsibility to apply to farms that interest you. We recommend contacting at least 5 farms to insure that you receive a job placement. Once you receive a position, please let our office know your change of address so we can send you information on trainings and workshops. The earlier in the spring you apply, the better chance you have of receiving a position with the farm of your choice. Often farms only have a few apprentice placements to offer and they can fill up quickly. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the office by phone 802-434-4122 or via email, info@nofavt.org
Timeline for Applying
While there is no deadline for applying, the majority of positions start in the spring and end in the fall. There are some early spring opportunities on farms producing maple syrup and some farms have year round placements.
Apprentice or Farm Worker?
- An apprenticeship is an educational opportunity with some structured learning time, where apprentices are explained the "whys" and not just the "hows" of the work to be done. They are generally given a diversified learning experience that enables them to learn with a demonstrated depth of skill.
- A farm worker is engaged in farm work with less emphasis on the educational component. They are generally paid by the hour and the focus of education is more to perform the daily tasks than to provide a deeper understanding of farming.
International Applicants
Unfortunately at this time, we are not able to assist International Applicants as we do not provide a matching service and can not assist with securing a work VISA.
Summer On-Farm Workshop Series
Participants in the program have the opportunity to attend NOFA Vermont's summer on-farm workshops series. Workshops are held June-October, cover a wide range of topics and are led by local farmers. Many farmers who are listed in the directory have agreed to let their workers attend NOFA Vermont sponsored workshops that are geared to the needs of new farmers & apprentices. These workshops are also an opportunity to meet other apprentices on Vermont farms and share experiences.
Winter Conference and Book List
Participants also receive discounted prices on books sold through NOFA Vermont and reduced price for attendance at our annual Winter Conference (held in February).
Helpful Information
Information for Farmers
Click here to register as a host farm.
Through the Apprentice and Farm Worker program, NOFA Vermont facilitates connections between interested individuals and Vermont farms with work opportunities. The NOFA Vermont on-line directory is a list of farms, market gardens and processing operations seeking apprentices and farm workers. The directory serves several purposes:
- It gives farmers an efficient and easy way to advertise their apprenticeship opportunity to a wide pool of interested individuals.
- It gives potential apprentices/workers an opportunity to learn about different farm worker positions and the means to contact farmers directly.
- The on-line directory allows host farmers to search through the list of registered applicants and contact those apprentices/workers that seem like a good fit for their farm.
As a VOF certified producer or NOFA Vermont member, you receive a free listing in the directory.
The directory is available to individuals who have applied and registered with the NOFA Vermont Apprentice Program website. Potential workers and apprentices use the directory to find farms that closely match their desired experience and will contact the farmers directly. Each year NOFA Vermont’s Apprentice and Farm Worker Program processes up to 65 applicants.
There is no cost for applicants to participate in the program. Participation includes invitation to NOFA Vermont sponsored beginning farmer trainings and workshops, invitation to our annual Winter Conference, and participation in a growing network of apprentices and aspiring farmers.
The workshops and trainings allow apprentices to supplement their on-farm educational experience. All apprentices, whether affiliated with NOFA Vermont’s Apprentice Program or not, are encouraged to attend.
Information for Registered Host Farms
Those who are interested in becoming host farms and have not yet registered can do so here.
Login here to view potential apprentices and farm workers.
Farmer & Apprentice / Farm Worker Login
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