La Belle Vie Farm

La Belle Vie Farm is an ecological farm growing haskap berries, salad greens, herbs and a small selection of seasonal vegetables. Our operation consists of: a berry orchard, terrestrial gardens, an indoor hydroponic/aquaponic farm and a certified on-farm kitchen. We are open to the public full-time during haskap season and part-time otherwise. We attend local farmers’ markets, supply small retailers, sell wholesale product to food processors and sell direct to consumers via our physical farm store and website.

We are looking to hire staff for a number of positions in 2025 who are motivated to work hard, expand their knowledge of food production and processing systems, and work in a team environment to produce high quality, ecologically grown food, in a safe and efficient manner.

If the internship opportunity below does not seem like a good fit, please know that we are undertaking a general recruitment at this time and will potentially have other opportunities available including seasonal full-time, casual harvester positions, co-op placements, and possibly another 8-month full-time contract. We encourage resumes along with a letter (email) telling us why our farm is of interest to you and why we should consider hiring you. We accept resumes in English or French. Bilingualism is always an asset, but not a requirement.

Location: La Belle Vie Farm, 378 Turcot Road, St. Charles, ON

Job Type: Full-time Contract (30 hrs/week), 1 year with possibility of extension

Salary Range: $19.80-$22.44/hr ($30-$35K/yr)

Eligibility: As this position is contingent upon federal Youth Employment and Skills Strategy funding targeted at recent post-secondary graduate, the successful candidate must meet program eligibility requirements:

· The candidate must work a minimum of 30 hours per week

· 15 to 30 years of age at the start of the internship

· a post-secondary graduate

· a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada or person granted refugee status

· legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial legislation and regulations

· a first-time participant in a Youth Employment and Skills Strategy work experience program targeted at post-secondary graduates

Job Summary:

We are seeking a motivated Aquaponics Technician to operate, maintain and improve our aquaponic-hydroponic system. The ideal candidate will have a passion for sustainable agriculture, experience with aquaponics, aquaculture, hydroponics or related fields, and the ability to take initiative by communicating ideas and potential solutions, troubleshoot and optimize system performance. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring the health of aquatic life, plant production and system optimization. This position reports directly to the farm managers/owners and works closely, with forthright communication, as part of the farm team.

Key Responsibilities:

System Maintenance:

o Monitor and maintain the health of aquaponics systems, including water quality, filtration systems, and nutrient levels.

o Perform routine inspections and maintenance of pumps, tanks, plumbing, and grow beds.

o Daily cleaning and sanitation

o Identify and resolve mechanical or technical issues promptly.

Plant and Fish Care:

o Manage daily care of aquatic species, ensuring water quality and optimal health.

o Seeding, transplant and care of plants.

o Monitor plants, addressing issues like pests, nutrient deficiencies, and diseases. Identify and resolve problems.

o Harvest crops according to production schedules.

Data Collection and Reporting:

o Record and analyze data on water chemistry, plant health, and fish growth.

o Generate reports on system performance and recommend improvements.

o Improve documentation systems

Quality Control:

o Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

o Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the system.

Training and Education:

o Complete all required training as assigned

o Assist in training team members or educating clients on our operation

o Participate in community outreach or educational programs if applicable.

General Farm Team Activities:

o During peak periods, as the workload above permits, and as needed, assist with other farm team responsibilities including maintenance activities, processing and production and customer service

Qualifications:

Required:

· Post-secondary diploma or equivalent (Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, environmental science, biology, or related field preferred; college diplomas also welcome).

· Experience working with aquaponics, hydroponics, aquaculture, or horticulture systems.

· Knowledge of water chemistry, fish care, and plant cultivation.

· Basic plumbing, electrical, and/or mechanical skills.

Preferred:

· Education/training in aquaponics, aquaculture, horticulture, automation or related fields.

· Familiarity with integrated pest management and organic farming principles.

· Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Skills and Attributes:

· Passion for sustainability and agriculture.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Strong organizational and time-management skills.

· Excellent communication and record-keeping abilities.

· Self-motivated and innovative thinker

Physical Requirements:

· Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks, including bending, standing, and working in varying environmental conditions.

Why Join Us?

· Be part of a forward-thinking team focused on sustainable agriculture and innovation.

· Opportunities for professional growth and development.

· Work in a dynamic environment where your contributions make a real impact.

Application Process: To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to labelleviefarm@gmail.com. If you are invited to an interview you will need to provide a copy of your degree or diploma as well as any relevant certifications that you may have. Applications will be accepted until March 15, 2025, or until the position is filled.

La Belle Vie Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply for this job email your details to labelleviefarm@gmail.com