OXBOW’S MISSION

Our mission is to inspire people to eat healthy, sustainably grown food and to steward our natural resources for future generations.

WHAT WE DO

Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center is located on 230 acres of forest and grassland bordered by Western Washington’s Snoqualmie River. We use this mixed landscape to:

Produce food. We cultivate 12 acres of certified organic mixed vegetable crops, herbs, and flowers using agro-ecological principles and engage in research to inform conservation agriculture practices. We grow food for local grocery stores, restaurants, hunger relief, a CSA program, and an on-site seasonal Farm Stand.

Grow native plants. We operate a native plant nursery that uses sustainable growing methods to produce plants for habitat restoration projects and urban landscapes. We share our knowledge to encourage increased production and use of natives in the Pacific Northwest, and beyond.

Connect children to nature. We offer education programs for children pre-K through high school to build environmental literacy and provide students with opportunities to learn about the links between agriculture, conservation, and the environment.

Restore and sustain habitat. We carry out ecological restoration projects and partner with scientists, regional planners, and other environmental organizations to learn how humans can benefit from the land while protecting biodiversity.

Cultivate community. We offer people of all ages opportunities to put their values into action as we promote climate resilience and encourage healthy food systems. We foster community through volunteer opportunities, Membership, a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, workshops & tours, and special events.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Oxbow’s Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for the function and care of the mechanical systems and machines used in the day-to-day operations. This is a great job for someone with a broad skillset who is able to fathom and orchestrate solutions for the needs of a diverse organization: an organic farm, native plant nursery, conservation and restoration site, educational space and public engagement center. General duties include repairs to tractors/ implements, field/ delivery vehicles, water pumps, power/ hand tools and keeping the shop well stocked and in good order.

This is a full-time year-round position with a competitive compensation package which includes 100% employer paid healthcare, annual dental stipend, and PTO for holiday, sick and vacation leave.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the Site Manager, assist with all aspects of equipment repair with a focus on preventative maintenance. In between critical repairs and seasonal events some support of general facilities and grounds maintenance will be required.

Key tasks include:

Property and Facilities Maintenance, 15%

• Maintenance of mechanical aspects of barns, out buildings and plastic growing houses
• Occasional weekend work assisting maintenance crew during festivals and events

Equipment Maintenance, 75%

• Repair and servicing farm vehicles, tractors and implements
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance protocols
• Keep a well-stocked and organized shop space
• Small engine care/repair
• Repair/modify and service of specialized farm equipment
• Safely operating large vehicles to move material, equipment and soil around Oxbow
• Build and maintain irrigation systems
• Care for and maintenance of tools
• Fabrication using metal, wood, concrete and plastic as needed

General, 10%

• Ensure Facilities and Maintenance team’s objectives, strategies and messages are aligned with and supportive of Oxbow’s mission and strategic plan
• Work cross-functionally with program teams to ensure efficient and effective communication and operations
• Represent Oxbow in a positive, professional manner, engaging with and educating visitors about Oxbow’s mission and programs
• Perform other duties as needed and assigned by the Site Manager

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong and demonstrated experience with all aspects of equipment maintenance with an emphasis on preventative measures
• High Mechanical aptitude
• Strong fabrication skills
• Working knowledge of gas and diesel engines
• Tractor driving / pallet fork experience a plus
• Able to work with a positive attitude and perform tasks while standing, sitting, bending over or kneeling, to lift heavy & awkward objects, up to 60 lbs., perform physical work such as digging or constructing, in inclement weather
• Comfortable with ladders and heights
• Able to take direction, ask for help/clarity when necessary, and accept constructive feedback on work and technique
• Clear, consistent communication
• Consistent attention to detail
• Must have valid driver’s license
• Able to work independently and within a team
• Weekend event work is required multiple times throughout the year including on call service during flood and snow events
• Comfortable dealing with and supporting activities revolving around public engagement when necessary

Additional desired qualities include: environmentally conscious, inclusive, self-motivated, energetic, and professional.

The Oxbow facilities team is part of a larger non-profit organization. A commitment to Oxbow’s overall mission and working as part of a team is critical.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

Oxbow is committed to cultivating a culture of diversity and inclusion. We value the individual differences, life experiences, and knowledge that our staff members bring to their work and their communities. Valuing diversity is a significant part of our culture, our values, and the success of Oxbow’s mission.

Oxbow provides equal employment opportunities to all staff members and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Oxbow is committed to fostering a racially diverse team. People of color are encouraged to apply.

COMPENSATION

This is a regular, full-time position, paying $17.50-$19.50 per hour, with competitive benefits including: 100% employer paid healthcare, annual dental stipend, generous holiday, vacation and sick pay, and access to food from the fields.

REPORTS TO:  Site Manager