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. 

Want to explore possible careers while learning and teaching about food and farming?

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

a teenage girl works on the farm as part of her part time summer agriculture job at the farm

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.

a group of summer teenagers pose for a group picture at the end of their summer work program

The YLA job program runs from June to July each year and the pay is $13.00/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

a youth leader in agriculture gives thumbs up while he is working on the farm

This program is supported by Waynesboro Public Schools, the JustPax Fund, and Staunton High School’s mentorship program.

“I think I have a much more in-depth and accurate knowledge of small-scale farming and its importance.”

-Former Youth Leader