We're Hiring!
Farm Lead - Billy Goat Hop Farm, LLC
The Company: Located in western Colorado, Billy Goat Hop Farm, LLC grows, processes, and markets premium hops. We sell directly to the growing number of craft breweries and are known for the high quality hops we produce and the unique terrior that Colorado provides.
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We are the largest producer of hops in the southern United States and are looking to expand our team to meet the demand for premium local hops.
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Our high quality derives from having control and care over every step of the process from planting to shipping.
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We have a state-of-the-art drip irrigation system, German Wolf picking and drying equipment, and an efficient pelletizing system.
The Position: We are looking for a dedicated, hard-working individual to help with all aspects of the farm. Everyday will bring new tasks and new solutions needed, creating an engaging setting. The pay will be negotiable based on the individual's experience but will start between $15 - $18 / hour with the opportunity for raises and bonuses.
Location and Hours:
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Billy Goat Hop Farm is located on Highway 550 and Trout Rd, 5 miles south of Montrose, CO 81403.
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Start date: beginning of April 2022. Hours in April range from 20-40 hours per week and are flexible with your schedule / needs.
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May is a busy time of the season getting the plants ready. You can expect to work roughly 10 hour days, 6-7 days a week. Reliability and performance can lead to bonuses in this period.
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June and July slows a bit to 30-50 hour weeks with flexibility to take time off.
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Mid August through early September is harvest season. During this time, we run 12-hour shifts, 6-7 days a week. Weekly hours can be anywhere from 60-84 hours. This is the most demanding and crucial time of year. Bonuses are paid at the end for reliability and performance.
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End of September - November hours range from 20-40 hours per week and can be flexible with your schedule / needs.
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December - March we can offer 10 hours a week or 40 hours a month. This is a great time to go skiing, travel, and pick up additional seasonal work!
Job Duties:
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We understand that hop farming is a unique crop and are more than happy to teach you how to do different tasks. We ask that you are willing to learn, ask questions when needed, and work hard.
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Learn to and operate the drip irrigation system, including chemigation.
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Safely operate the tractor, connecting different implements and correctly using them.
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Help roll out, connect, fix, and flush out the drip irrigation tube.
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Stringing and training of the plants; fix fallen plants.
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Hand and mechanically weed; identifying hop plants at different growth stages.
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Work on different equipment and mechanical maintenance and repairs.
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Manage seasonal employees and potentially run a crew during harvest.
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Harvest duties: Macheting and bringing in plants, feeding them into the picker, spreading the cones in the dryer, emptying the dryer, removing plant waste, baling, testing moisture of bales, aiding in pelletizing and packaging, and cleaning. Helping to keep an eye on all equipment and mechanics - keeping the operation moving efficiently.
Job Qualifications:
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Be able to lift at least 50 pounds and be on your feet for extended periods of time.
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Good active listening and written and verbal communication skills.
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Be able to identify and solve problems on your own. Be a self-starter, there is always another task to do around the farm. This person should be able to keep themselves busy when necessary.
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Ability to work with others as a team. Our full-time team is small so it is very important all team members can work with each other in an efficient and professional manner.
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Valid U.S. Driver’s License
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US work authorization
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Experience with specialty crop farming is preferred, but not mandatory.
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Experience operating a range of different farm equipment is preferred, but not mandatory.
Benefits:
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There is the option to live at the farm for free. You would need to supply your own tent, camper, truck, etc. We have a communal kitchen in the warehouse, a porta potty, and wifi. Showers and flush toilets are in the works, but the finish date is unknown.
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Gorgeous location at the farm with ample outdoor recreation activities in all directions for your down time!
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Opportunity to learn more about farming, drip irrigation systems, and specialty crops.
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Bonus pay
Apply:
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Email us about yourself and why you’d like to work for Billy Goat Hop Farm, LLC
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A resume is preferred as well!
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Feel free to email with any questions.