Job Opportunity: Organic Farmer at Potential Agricultural Research Institute

This post is also available in: Japanese

Potential Agricultural Research Institute in Takayama, Gifu is looking for a full-time trainee for its farming and food production operations. For 20 years Potential has been growing vegetables without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers (they also hold the Japan Agricultural Standard organic certification). In addition to organic farming, they also make organic, no-additive pound cakes and puddings.

Applicants of all experience levels welcome. You will learn about soil preparation, seeding, cultivation, harvesting, packaging, and distribution – the entire farming process – directly from the farm director, Haruo Okuda.

Requirements/details:
– person with a strong constitution
– can speak Japanese
– work hours vary according to season (from 5am in the summer, 8am in the winter)
– room and board included
– discuss other details in the interview with Okuda-san

This is a great opportunity to learn a vital skill through hands-on experience, from one of the original organic farmers in Japan. As a small family operation, you will receive direct guidance from a master farmer on a daily basis. If you enjoy a challenge, working outdoors, living in the pristine countryside, and seeing how your work directly impacts a growing business, this job is for you. You can also join for a short visit to see if you would like to stay longer. Contact us through the site or leave a comment with any general questions, or stop by the Ginza Farmers Market and speak to Aki-san for more details.

In the mean time, enjoy some photos of my visit with Potential Farm last year (click image for slide show).