About Philo Ridge Farm

Philo Ridge Farm (PRF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) working demonstration farm located in Vermont’s Champlain Valley. Using innovative and ecologically sustainable practices, we steward over 500 acres of pastureland, forests, and diversified produce gardens. We rotationally graze heritage breed livestock and cultivate certified organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Our mission is to promote organic regenerative agriculture through hands-on research, education, and community engagement. As a nonprofit living laboratory, we provide farmers, students, and the public with opportunities to explore sustainable farming practices. Through educational initiatives and collaborative partnerships, we seek to deepen our understanding of food systems, environmental stewardship, and the essential role of food and agriculture in building resilient, healthy communities.

Position Overview

Philo Ridge Farm is seeking a skilled and passionate Baker and Pastry Cook to support our mission of delivering seasonal, sustainable food rooted in regenerative agriculture. This role, integral to our collaborative kitchen team, involves preparing daily pastries and baked goods using farm-fresh ingredients, stocking the pastry display in our Market, and contributing creatively to lunch and dinner dessert offerings. Additionally, the Baker and Pastry Cook will preserve seasonal fruits and produce to build a winter larder, minimizing waste and extending the harvest. The ideal candidate will be organized, detail-oriented, and committed to sustainable practices, including proper product rotation and maintaining a clean, efficient workspace, with strong communication and teamwork skills to support
seamless coordination across our culinary and hospitality teams.
 

The Baker/Pastry Cook position is a full-time position requiring a flexible schedule, including availability
for mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.

Responsibilities

● Prepare and assemble high-quality baked goods and seasonal desserts for daily service, including Market items and menu offerings.
● Maintain a fresh, appealing, and well-stocked pastry display in the Market.
● Preserve fruits and produce for off-season use, maintaining a well-stocked larder.
● Contribute creatively to new pastry offerings that reflect the farm’s seasonal bounty.
● Collaborate with kitchen and hospitality teams to ensure smooth service and clear communication.
● Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary pastry station, following all food safety practices.
● Follow proper sanitizing, hand washing, time-temperature tracking, and cross-contamination prevention protocols.
● Support inventory management by receiving, stocking, and rotating ingredients.
● Use kitchen and pastry equipment safely and assist with regular maintenance.
● Participate in waste reduction efforts through composting, recycling, and proper disposal.
● Assist with staff meals, special events, and other kitchen responsibilities as needed.

Qualifications

● Minimum 2 years of experience in a similar role within a high-volume, professional kitchen
● Experience with standard kitchen equipment, including ovens, stoves, fryers, slicers, grinders,
and knives; comfort with basic maintenance and safety protocols preferred
● Passion for food and a strong foundation in cooking techniques
● Proven commitment to producing high-quality food and delivering seamless service
● Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to maintain a consistent pace throughout the day
● Proven time management skills, with the ability to multitask and stay organized under pressure
● Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work independently, take initiative, and adapt to changing priorities
● Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams
● Reliable, punctual, and consistently prepared for shifts—including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
● Physically capable of standing or walking for extended periods, lifting and moving up to 50
pounds, and working in a range of indoor and outdoor conditions