Farmer / Master Fruit Grower

Farmer / Master Fruit Grower Agroforestry Park Schloss Tuernich

schloss tuernich tunnelkas

We are looking for a practitioner (farmer, master fruit grower, or comparable) with experience in agroforestry systems for the project 'Agroforestry Park - Agroforestry Systems as Future Technologies for Climate-Protecting Agriculture'.The project is planned for 44 months, and accordingly, the position is limited. It is a full-time (100%) position.

Schloß Türnich is a fascinating place in the Rhineland mining area. Almost like an island of culture

and nature, it lies in the Erft floodplain just outside Cologne. For years, we have been developing

the estate into a "There is another way" place, a place where sustainability is experienced on many

levels. In the numerous natural gardens, in the enchanted castle chapel, in the wild yet designed

castle park, in permaculture farming with market garden, community-supported agriculture (Solawi),

agroforestry, as well as regenerative fruit and arable farming, and in our 100% organic café with

inspiring farm-to-table cuisine. Schloß Türnich is increasingly becoming an inspiration place for

sustainability.

Under the STARK funding guideline of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, a

demonstration and knowledge center for innovative, productive, and climate-protecting

agroforestry systems is being established at the Schloss Türnich site in the Rhineland mining area.

The goal is the development, implementation, and scientific support of seven different sustainable

agroforestry systems focusing on CO₂ storage, biodiversity, economic viability, and regional

marketing strategies.

The duties and responsibilities are diverse and challenging:

• Practical implementation and maintenance of seven innovative agroforestry systems in the

Rhineland mining area

• Clearing, planting, pruning, and care of trees and shrubs, especially in fruit growing

• Management of agricultural land (arable land, grassland)

• Operation and maintenance of agricultural machinery and equipment

• Support integration of animal husbandry, especially chickens, into the agroforestry systems

• Participation in measures to promote biodiversity and soil health

• Cooperation with the scientific team, agricultural enterprises, and other project partners

• Support during events, tours, and knowledge transfer activities

Your profile:

• Completed training as master fruit grower, gardener specialized in fruit and horticulture,

qualifications in agroforestry, or comparable qualification

• Several years of practical experience in fruit growing as well as knowledge in arable farming

and other agricultural sectors

• Practical agroforestry experience is an advantage

• Confident handling of agricultural machinery and equipment, ideally with relevant licenses

• Experience in animal husbandry, especially chickens, is an advantage

• Basic understanding of regenerative agriculture and agroforestry systems

• Reliable, independent, and structured working style

• Team player with willingness to engage in an interdisciplinary project

• Willingness to work flexible hours and occasional weekend shifts

We offer:

• A versatile and responsible role in a pioneering model project for sustainable agriculture and

climate protection

• Collaboration with a dedicated, interdisciplinary team from practice and science

• Working environment in the inspiring surroundings of Schloss Türnich

• Opportunities for further training and personal development

• Performance-based remuneration

We are a small family foundation that values responsible handling of resources and people. Building

on a long history, we aim to make Schloss Türnich future-proof. This project is a decisive milestone.

We would like to fill the position from February 2026 onward - some flexibility in the timing is

possible. We look forward to receiving your application, including your salary expectations and earliest

possible starting date, at: and .