Yard Operations Labourer

Job Description

Job Description

Barnside Farm is a minority-owned operation specialising in high-quality mulch, compost and topsoil. They custom-blend products for each customer, deliver (with a minimum fee) and accept natural materials for processing. They are certified by the U.S. Composting Council.

Role Summary

The General Labourer supports the production, processing, delivery and yard operations of mulch, compost and topsoil. This is a physically demanding role that involves hands-on tasks outdoors, assisting with material handling, equipment operation (or assisting operators), loading/unloading, yard clean-up, and customer-pickup/ delivery support. Employee should be within 15 to 20 minute drive time from site.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with receiving raw materials from customers (organic/natural materials) and sorting according to company policy.

• Help machine or manual processing of materials (e.g., shredding, turning compost piles, screening topsoil).

• Load and unload trucks/trailers with mulch, topsoil, compost for delivery or customer pickup.

• Operate (or assist in operating) yard equipment (e.g., front-end loader, bobcat, conveyor, screening units) under supervision.

• Clean and maintain work areas, machines, and yard—ensuring a safe and tidy work environment.

• Assist delivery drivers or sales/yard staff with customer service when customers come for pickup; help with bagging, compacting or staging product.

• Ensure product quality by monitoring batches of compost (certified material), topsoil, mulch—reporting any issues.

• Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe equipment operation, and adherence to environmental/composting guidelines.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.

• Ability and willingness to perform physically demanding tasks: lifting heavy loads (50+ lbs), standing/walking outdoors for extended periods, bending, stooping, climbing.

• Experience working outdoors in all weather conditions is a plus.

• Ability to work as part of a team, follow instructions, and take direction.

• Basic mechanical aptitude; ability to learn to operate yard equipment is desired.

• Strong commitment to safety.

• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

• Valid driver’s licence preferred (for tasks supporting delivery) though not always required.

Working Conditions

• Primarily outdoor work in a yard/production facility, exposed to weather elements.

• Noise and dust may be present; use of PPE (earplugs, dust masks, safety glasses) required.

• Physical labour includes lifting, pushing, pulling, climbing.

• Some weekend or early-morning hours may be required (depending on delivery schedule and seasonal demand).

• Occasional travel within local delivery radius when assisting in shipments.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation to be discussed (hourly wage).

• Potential for growth into equipment operator or yard supervisory roles.

• Training provided on equipment, composting certification, safety procedures.

• Working for a minority-owned, locally-oriented business with a focus on sustainable/organics materials.