Black Dirt Farm
Job Description - Route Operator
Farm Description
Black Dirt Farm is an integrated and diversified agroecological family farm in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom designed to mimic the carbon cycle. We operate a year-round food scrap collection route to collect organic discards from our community. We strive to put this “waste” to as much positive use as we can. We blend the food scraps into a compost mix which provides forage for our laying hens, then make compost and worm castings with the excess food and manure, and finally, we sell and use the resulting products to nourish our soils and crops. Our farm is firmly based in regenerative agricultural practices and the creation of ecologically-thriving and socially-just food systems. As of 2021, we diverted 13.6 million pounds of food scraps from the landfill, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by the equivalent of not burning 603,598 gallons of gasoline and capturing enough nitrogen to fertilize over 1,000 acres of mixed vegetable crops.
Being a part of Black Dirt Farm means working in an environment that is both caring and efficient. The farm requires creative and driven individuals who can work as part of a dynamic and, often, fast-paced team but also be individually responsible for managing their own tasks with professionalism and quality.
At Black Dirt Farm a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace is one where all Crew Members, volunteers, and customers—of all genders and gender identities, races, ethnicities, national origins, ages, sexual orientations, educations, or disabilities—feel valued and respected. We believe the farm thrives most when we have a diversity of people and experiences that inform what we do and how we do it. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages, and work to ensure that all voices are valued and heard. To foster a healthy farm community, Black Dirt Farm does not tolerate marginalizing behavior, language, or harassment. We’re committed to a thriving work environment that yields exceptional products and collective growth.
Position Overview
The Route Operator will run our compost collection route two days per week and contribute to the overall success of the farm by performing other tasks as needed and as time allows.
Job Tasks/ Sphere of Responsibility *
Food Scrap Collection Route (Estimated 18hrs/week):
Safely and efficiently operating the collection route two days per week.
Operating a 2 ton-truck with dump trailer, hydraulic tote tipper, generator, hot water pressure washer, and the fresh water pump.
Attending to as-needed equipment repairs that can be done easily on the route, such as changing a pull chord or replacing spark plugs.
Handling 48-gallon wheeled containers, visually inspecting containers for contaminants, and removing them when necessary.
Recording and reporting data.
Friendly customer service as needed while on customer premises.
Qualifications
Five years driving experience; ideally at least one year of commercial/heavy truck driving experience
Strong interpersonal skills, including communication, listening, and stress management
Willingness to follow protocols; appreciation for operational efficiency
Demonstrated ability to manage time and problem solve
Ability and desire to perform basic repairs
This job requires the operator to:
Handle containers up to 350 pounds (on wheels), typically 150-200 lbs.
Lift 50 pounds safely
Climb in and out of truck bed routinely with comfort
Execute semi-repetitive tasks over time
Operate outdoors, in variable weather and temperatures
Bend, stoop, and climb stairs
Excitement about compost, farming, and the food system
All candidates must possess a valid Driver’s License and pass a criminal background check
Willingness to engage in dismantling systemic supremacies and participate in a vibrant, inspired work culture
Hours per week: 2 days/week; 12 - 18 hours/week, additional hours available.
Compensation: Based on experience
Starting Date: October 2023
To Apply: Please send resume, cover letter, and three references to info@blackdirtfarm.com