Apprentice and Willing Worker

NOFA Vermont believes that having the opportunity to work on an organic farm is a valuable and rewarding form of education. Vermont farms offer exciting learning opportunities whether you are looking for a more structured experience (apprenticeship) or general farm work (willing worker).

Apprentice or Willing 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 willing 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.

What does NOFA Vermont offer?

Information for Applicants

What does NOFA offer?

NOFA Vermont Apprentice & Willing Worker On-line 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 willing 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.

NOFA Vermont's 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.

NOFA Vermont's 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 at Vermont Technical College in Randolph, VT).

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.

How to apply?

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 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 dairy farms have year round placements.

Helpful Information

Information for Host Farms

Through the Apprentice and Willing 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 willing 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.

If you are interested in becoming a host farm, please contact the NOFA Vermont Office. We will discuss expectations and provide you with a host farm application.

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 Willing 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 at Vermont Technical College in Randolph, VT., 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.

Summer Workshop Information

Information for Registered Host Farms

(Those who are interested in becoming host farms must first contact the NOFA Vermont Office.)