FortWhyte Farms Youth Crew Lead (Seasonal)

Position Title:     Farm Crew Lead

Position Type:    Seasonal - Summer (3 positions)

Dates:                  May 11 - August 29, 2026

Hours of Work:   8:00am - 4:00pm Monday-Friday, 37.5 hours per week 

FortWhyte Farms is: FortWhyte Farms engages youth in hands-on programs that build skills, confidence, and leadership while connecting them to sustainable agriculture, culinary arts, woodworking, and social enterprise. Programs evolve with the seasons, from year-round learning and mentorship to summer employment and seasonal projects, offering a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Job Summary:       

The FortWhyte Farms Crew Leader supports the operations of FortWhyte Farms’ summer youth employment program, which develops vocational and life skills in youth from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. In this role, the Crew Leader provides mentorship, guidance, and hands-on training to youth participating in sustainable agriculture, culinary arts, woodworking, and social enterprise activities.

Primary Responsibilities

May and June

Work directly with Stage 1 youth participants to provide hands-on guidance and support in the kitchen, farm, and woodshop programs.

Participate in required training, including Class 4 licenses, First Aid, and Mental Health First Aid, to prepare for supporting the youth program.

Support farm staff with Stage 2 summer program development, ensuring all programs and operations are ready for participant engagement.

Support the training and facilitation of Junior Staff.

Assist with day-to-day farm operations, including horticulture, livestock care, site maintenance, and facility upkeep.

July and August

Lead a crew of 4–5 Junior youth staff in the summer intern program by providing mentorship and guidance.

Train, motivate, and engage youth in program activities and operational responsibilities.

Provide timely guidance, feedback, and accountability to youth in daily tasks.

Supervise youth in weekly program events, including off-site field trips, workshops, and community service projects.

Plan and facilitate team-building activities, discussions, and goal setting for youth.

Communicate program or participant observations and needs to the appropriate senior staff to ensure timely support and resolution.

Model teamwork, commitment, and open communication in all program activities.

Transport youth safely in a 15-passenger vehicle as needed.

Basic Hiring Criteria:

Meets the criteria for the Canada Summer Jobs program: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-summer-jobs/who-can-apply.html 

Experience working in mentorship role or program facilitation for under-served youth

Initiative and proven problem-solving skills

Physically fit and ability to work outdoors for long periods of time

Ability to work a flexible schedule

Ability to work independently/self-directed, as well as in a team

Post-secondary education or relevant work experience considered an asset

Culinary arts, landscaping, animal sciences, carpentry or agricultural experience an asset

Certification in First Aid and CPR an asset

Knowledge of FWA site an asset

Valid Driver’s License and access to transportation

Class 4 (Passenger Carrying) Driver’s License will be required upon employment for operation of 15 passenger van

Child abuse registry check and criminal records check require upon hiring

FortWhyte Alive is devoted to developing a work environment and recruitment processes that are inclusive and barrier-free. Please let us know if an accommodation is needed at any stage of the recruitment process.

FortWhyte Alive is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment equity may be a factor in selection for this position. We welcome and encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black people, People of Colour, LGBTQ2S+ people and people with disabilities.