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About us
Derrybeg Farm is a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm located in Celbridge, Co. Kildare. We have been in operation since 2012 and currently provide weekly seasonal vegetables to 52 families for 9 months of the year (Usually June-Feb). Our farm is about an acre in size, split between polytunnels and field plots. As a CSA, we are collectively run by the Steering Group, which includes the Head Grower and an elected body of 3-7 farm members.
Job description
We are seeking a dedicated, energetic, and community-focused Head Grower to manage all aspects of vegetable production, from seed to harvest, in order to produce high-quality, seasonal, organic produce for our members. Ideally, a candidate will have experience with small-scale organic growing and enjoy community engagement. The position is part-time with flexible working hours, 20 hours per week, on a fixed-term contract renewable annually. The rate of pay is €14,750 per annum.
Key responsibilities
Crop planning and production: Develop and implement a crop plan for a 52-member CSA, including sowing, plot/bed preparation, planting out, watering, feeding, weed and pest control, and harvesting. Manage the weekly harvest, including packing and distribution of produce to members and communication to members about the same. Ensure that all members receive equal shares of the harvest. When necessary, arrange the purchase and/or swap of produce with other local growers.
Farm management: Manage the entire farm site, including walkways, collection shelter, areas of biodiversity, shipping containers, polytunnels & plots. This also includes key-holder responsibilities, banking privileges, and passwords for farm accounts.
Record keeping: Maintain accurate records of crop yields, planting dates, and farm activities. Comply with all record keeping requirements for farming expenses and use of grants funds.
Volunteer management: Supervise and train volunteers to assist with growing and the harvest. Work alongside the Steering Group to make strategic decisions for the farm. Prepare updates for and attend monthly Steering Group meetings and the annual members’ AGM, and prepare Head Grower. When necessary, train new staff and organise rosters.
Education and promotion: Attend public events as a farm representative and, upon agreement between the Head Grower and the Steering Group, facilitate educational events on the farm (for example, school trips or volunteer groups).
Repairs and maintenance: Complete any reasonable repairs or arrange for external contractors to come to the farm as needed. Prepare the farm for the arrival of contractors and equipment.
Flexibility: Farming workloads vary from month to month and the work is weather dependent, meaning that flexibility regarding working hours is crucial.
Health and safety: Maintain a safe and tidy workspace throughout the farm, especially tool storage and office space areas. Prioritise health and safety practices at all times and ensure that the first aid kit remains stocked.
Training: Attend farming conferences or training events where skills learned are relevant in the role of Head Grower.
Sustainability: Follow organic farming principles and take all steps possible to strengthen and safeguard the farm’s ecosystems and biodiversity. Aim to minimise negative environmental impacts in all actions on the farm.
Applications
Interested candidates are invited to email a short statement of interest and their CV to farmer.derrybeg.farm@gmail.com no later than Friday 29th May 2026. If selected for an interview, a Steering Group member will be in touch to schedule the interview date. The ideal candidate will be available to start in June 2026.