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A 12-month contract Farm Labourer role at Parrish & Heimbecker is a gateway to a meaningful career in Canadian agriculture, offering competitive benefits and a chance to work with an industry leader. This position provides a stable, full-time opportunity for an individual passionate about animal care and farm operations. Located in Hanover, Ontario, with a standard day-shift schedule, this role is ideal for someone with a strong work ethic and a desire to contribute to a well-established, family-owned company. If you have experience in general labour and are ready to join a team that values integrity and continuous learning, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Table of Contents
- About the Company: Parrish & Heimbecker
- Job Overview: Your Role as a Farm / Barn Labourer
- Detailed Job Responsibilities: A Day in the Life
- Qualifications and Requirements: What You Bring
- Employee Benefits: How P&H Invests in You
- The Application Process: How to Apply
- Why Choose a Career in Canadian Agriculture?
About the Company: Parrish & Heimbecker
Parrish & Heimbecker (P&H) is a Canadian, family-owned agri-business with a history spanning over 110 years. The company has grown to become a significant player in the industry, with over 70 locations from coast to coast. P&H is vertically integrated, meaning its operations cover various aspects of the agricultural supply chain, including grain merchandising, flour milling, crop input distribution, and animal feed production .
The New Life Mills division, where this position is based, is a testament to P&H's commitment to quality. Since 1964, New Life Mills has been a leading manufacturer of livestock nutrition, focusing on providing the best possible inputs and services for broiler chickens, eggs, turkey, beef, dairy, and swine. The division operates five production facilities and utilizes company-owned farms for responsible nutrition and species management research, backed by a strict quality assurance program . The corporate culture is built on family values, emphasizing honesty, integrity, and a focus on continuous learning and support for its staff .
Job Overview: Your Role as a Farm / Barn Labourer
This specific opening is for a Farm / Barn Labourer at the New Life Mills layer farm in Hanover, Ontario. It's important to note that this is a 12-month contract position designed to cover a maternity leave, offering a full-time, temporary engagement with the potential for valuable experience .
The successful candidate will report directly to the Farm Manager and will be integral to the day-to-day operations of the farm. The standard hours of work are from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, requiring availability every other weekend . This structure provides a predictable schedule while acknowledging the ongoing care needs of a live operation.
Detailed Job Responsibilities: A Day in the Life
The Farm Labourer's role is hands-on and varied, requiring diligence and a commitment to safety. Key responsibilities include :
- Animal Care and Poultry Husbandry: This is a core duty, involving the daily care of the layer farm's poultry to ensure their health and well-being.
- Record-Keeping: Maintaining accurate records is crucial. You will be tasked with monitoring equipment, feeders, and other aspects of the operation, documenting details as required.
- Maintenance: The role involves performing mechanical, property, and yard maintenance to keep the farm running smoothly and safely.
- Operating Machinery: You will operate various types of farm machinery, including ventracs and tractors. While experience is preferred, a mechanical aptitude is key.
- Health and Safety Adherence: P&H prioritizes a safe work environment. Strict adherence to all health and safety policies and practices is non-negotiable.
Qualifications and Requirements: What You Bring
P&H is looking for a motivated and forward-thinking individual. The qualifications are broken down into required and preferred skills .
Required Qualifications:
- Experience in General Labour: Proven experience in a general labour role is essential, demonstrating an understanding of manual work and a strong work ethic.
- Flexible Schedule: The ability to work some weekends, holidays, and be on-call for alarm coverage is required due to the nature of farm operations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in Farming: While not mandatory, prior experience in a farming environment is a significant asset.
- Machine Operation: Experience in operating tractors and other farming-related equipment will make a candidate stand out.
- Mechanical Aptitude: A natural inclination towards understanding and performing basic mechanical tasks is highly valued.
Employee Benefits: How P&H Invests in You
Reflecting its people-first approach, Parrish & Heimbecker offers a comprehensive benefits package to its staff, which includes :
- Learning and Development Programs: Opportunities to grow your skills and advance your knowledge.
- Health and Wellness Benefits: Dental, Vision, and Extended Health Care coverage, along with an Employee Assistance Program and a Wellness Program.
- Financial Security: Paid Time Off, RRSP Matching to help you save for the future, and competitive hourly wages that align with industry standards in Ontario .
- Company Culture: Regular company events that help build a strong, supportive team environment.
This package goes beyond the standard for many agricultural jobs, highlighting P&H's commitment to retaining hard-working staff.
The Application Process: How to Apply
Applying for this position is straightforward. Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply online by visiting www.pandhcareers.com .
The company notes that it will contact only those applicants selected for an interview. P&H is also an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce and complies with the Employment Equity Act. Accommodations during the job selection process are available upon request .
Why Choose a Career in Canadian Agriculture?
A role like this is more than just a job; it's a step into a critical sector of the Canadian economy. The agricultural industry in Canada is robust and stable, with a constant demand for dedicated workers . For those considering relocating to Ontario, the province is a major hub for agriculture, offering a blend of rural community living with accessibility to larger urban centers.
Furthermore, roles with reputable companies like Parrish & Heimbecker can serve as a foundation for a long-term career. They offer a chance to gain specialized experience in livestock care and farm management, skills that are highly transferable and valued across the country .
In summary, the Farm Labourer (12-Month Contract) position with Parrish & Heimbecker represents a solid opportunity for a physically capable and reliable individual to gain experience with a leading Canadian agri-business. With a strong company culture, a clear job description, and a competitive benefits package, this role is an excellent chance to launch or further a career in agriculture. If your qualifications match the requirements, consider applying today at www.pandhcareers.com.