Youth Leaders in Agriculture

Farm Jobs for High Schoolers

Youth Leaders in Agriculture is a paid summer farm job for local high school students. This educational farm job is perfect for teenagers interested in learning more about sustainable agriculture, leadership, mentoring, and community development. Youth Leaders learn in a fun and engaging environment while working alongside other teenagers, seasoned educators, and our farm team. 

Positions offered include YLA Crew Member and YLA Assistant Crew Leader. Follow the links below to learn more about each position.

two young teenage girls harvest kale on the farm as part of their summer youth leader paid agriculture job

You Will:

  • Learn about sustainable agriculture

  • Grow, harvest, and cook many kinds of vegetables

  • Develop confidence and leadership skills

  • Take field trips to other farms

  • Help elementary-aged campers learn about gardening

  • Join our market team in selling produce

  • Build your resume

Join Our Team!

Youth Leaders function as a key part of our dynamic farm crew, while participating in everything related to food production, from planting and harvesting to selling at our markets. 

Designed as a first-time job experience, this career exploration initiative teaches Youth Leaders skills in farming and leadership while exploring nutrition and our local food economy. Together, we learn about agriculture, help with summer camps, and support our farmers markets.

The YLA job program runs from June to July each year and the pay starts at $13.50/hour. Applicants must:

  • Attend an Augusta County, Staunton, or Waynesboro school

  • Be a current 11th or 12th grader (current 10th graders will be considered if they are 15 years old, but will need to apply for a work permit)

  • Be available to work 20 to 30 hours a week

Job Details

This program is supported by the Tess Majors Foundation, Waynesboro Public Schools, and Staunton High School’s mentorship program.

Major funding support for the 2025 Youth Leaders in Agriculture (YLA) Program comes from the Tess Majors Foundation whose mission is to support and partner with organizations that provide young people instruction in music, nature, and the arts, especially in regions of the country where such opportunities may be lacking and programs can have significant impact. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering youth, fostering community engagement, and honoring the legacy of Tess Majors by helping young people become the next generation of changemakers.