Small Orchard Opportunity – North Star Orchard

Last Updated On: January 15th, 2026 at 09:40AM MST

Contact information

Farm Address:
3226 Limestone Rd
Cochranville, Pennsylvania, 19330

Primary Contact: Lisa Ruch
Primary Phone:
    Type: Cell
    Number: 484-502-7360
    Email: Lisa@northstarorchard.com

Website: https://northstarorchard.com/

Internship information

General Farm Description: North Star Orchard is a small (20 acres), direct-to-consumer farm where we focus on cultivating unique and heritage varieties of tree fruit. Engage with our community of regular customers through our large fruit CSA, local farmers’ markets, and on-site farm store. Join us in our commitment to non-certified organically-grown vegetables, IPM tree fruit, and an extensive apple breeding program that spans decades. Learn more on our website: https://northstarorchard.com/

CRAFT Member Farm? No

Internship Starts: late April/early May
Internship Ends: Mid-to-late November
Number of Internship Available: 2
Application Deadline: March 1st, 2026
Minimum Length of Stay: Full Season

Internship Details:

Are you passionate about farming and eager to dive into the world of fruit production? We are looking for great FT/PT Staff to join our excellent team from April/May until Thanksgiving, with the potential for long-term employment.

We’re seeking self-starters who can follow direction and work independently, yet can thrive as a team player. Your role will involve a variety of tasks, from harvest to marketing and deliveries. Embrace the opportunity to guide, learn from, and support fellow staff members.

For the right person, there’s potential to take on more responsibilities and become an integral part of our farm year after year. On-site housing may be available for those who need it.

Educational Opportunities: Positions at North Star are not internships, but employment with opportunities to learn while working, especially for motivated individuals who are willing to read industry-specific material, ask questions of the farm owners, and attend area grower-specific meetings. Many of our staff have gone on to further education in sustainable topics/agriculture or to their own farming projects.

Skills Desired: While prior experience is not required, education, self-education, and/or a genuine interest in farming is highly valued. This is your chance to acquire hands-on skills and knowledge, especially in the realm of fruit growing, to further your goals and interests.

Meals: No

Stipend: $15/hr to start, with possible raise after 2 months

Housing: A room in shared staff housing is a possibility. Rent is charged (Ranges from $450-$500/month with all utilities included)

Preferred method of Contact: Email