Once a year our FFA program allows students to participate in what’s called a Job Interview, A “Fun yet challenging opportunity.” Says our AG teacher Mr.Baker. Job interview is where students pick from a plethora of Jobs in different parts of Agriculture. Those range from Horticulture intern to Florist assistant to an Agricultural Sales Assistant.Those students pick from the available options and study the background of that job and contact the Owner/manager if necessary, to in a way “get their foot in the door” and make an over the phone impression.They will then spend many weeks preparing and practicing with their other teammates. Following this, students will prepare themselves in every way possible for the big day, where they go in front of a panel of judges to then undergo the job interview process. 

Students who are interested must abide by the following eligibility rules, Contestants must be active, in-school, FFA members of a chapter in good standing with the California Association of FFA and who are enrolled in an agricultural education course. The preliminary contests are local, sectional and regional in nature. Each section will determine how many chapter members may participate at the sectional level. Each region will determine how many sectional participants may compete at the Regional level. Participation at the state level is limited to the top 50% of those that participate in the Regional contest (or major portion thereof), with a maximum of four(4) per region. The finals for this contest will be held at the same time as the state prepared public speaking and state extemporaneous public speaking contests are conducted. A contestant may not participate in the job interview, Prepared Public Speaking or Extemporaneous Public Speaking contests in the same year.

One of the Job options is, an Agriculture Business Management-Sales assistant. JSC Agricultural Supply is looking for an energetic individual with great people skills who has an interest in agriculture sales. This position answers questions regarding product features and options, receives orders from customers (by telephone, fax, in person or email), prepares quotations on items, is reliable ,and has excellent interpersonal skills. Candidates need to be proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite and possess outstanding verbal and written communication.

The second Job option is, an Agriculture Mechanics-MIG Welder. Students Seeking a welding position can apply here, where the company fabricates Agricultural Equipment. Candidates must have experience in MIG welding, setting up and breaking down welding machines, proper welding technique and be familiar with power tools. Candidates must also own Steel Toed work boots, Helmet and Gloves. 

The third job option is, an Animal Science-Veterinary Hospital Assistant. For those interested, Green acre Veterinary hospital is looking for an entry-level assistant. Candidates must love animals and not be afraid to get dirty. Responsibilities require, intake of animal patients, animal restraint/handling, assisting in the collecting of basic samples including those of blood, feces, urine.They should assist veterinarians by preparing wounds, gathering supplies, monitoring during and after procedures and kennel sanitation.

The fourth Job option is, Floriculture-Floral Shop Assistant. For the students interested, This floral shop is looking for a motivated person to assist in all aspects of a busy flower shop. Major responsibilities require helping customers, entering orders on a computer, displaying products on the sales floor, processing flowers from flower markets, watering and caring for plants, general cleaning and sweeping. This person must be able to stand on feet most of the day and be able to lift buckets filled with water. Looking for someone with a great go-getter attitude that enjoys customer service.

The fifth Job option is, Forestry & Natural Resources- Forestry Technician Intern. The US Department of Agriculture is looking for a Forest Technician intern to assist with research of northern California forests. Candidates should have knowledge and/or experience in collecting data on tree growth and morality; forest type; tree size and age; natural; disturbances; insects and disease; and soil attributes.

The sixth job option is Ornamental Horticulture- Transplanting Technician. Students who love  Phytelligence are seeking conscientious, detail-oriented individuals to join our team as a transplanting technician. This is an entry-level position at our greenhouse facility in Lancaster, CA. Phytelligence is an Agricultural Biotech Company that is revolutionizing the way food crops are grown. Key responsibilities are transplanting plants from plug stages, preparing trays for planting, maintaining an organized workstation and keeping records.

The seventh job option is Plant and Soil Science- Commodity inspection Intern. Safe Food Alliance is looking to hire an intern in their Commodity Inspection Department. Candidates should have knowledge of common nut crops such as Walnuts, Almonds and Pistachios. Responsibilities include drawing staples from the production line and inspecting according to quality, grade, color, and size as specified under commodity guidelines. Candidates will also  place rejected products and individual grades of products in designated piles, containers, or areas. Candidates should be able to make decisions efficiently, Maintain sanitary work conditions and work independently.

This competition is great for any student willing to give it their all and try their best. Mr. Baker encourages anyone interested to “go for it” and try your best as it will only help you and give you skills that will be beneficial to you and your future. Even if you fail, “ you got somewhere.”