Beekeeper Resume Example and Template
A strong beekeeper resume demonstrates hands-on beekeeping knowledge, colony management skills, and understanding of bee health and disease. Include experience with hive maintenance, honey harvest, and any certifications or advanced training.
Beekeeping operations and pollination services look for knowledgeable beekeepers who understand colony dynamics and can manage hives independently. They value safety record, disease prevention knowledge, and business acumen.
Also searched as
Head Beekeeper, Apprentice Beekeeper
Rebecca Whitmore: Beekeeper
Burlington, Vermont, United States
Summary
Experienced beekeeper managing 180 hives across 6 apiaries in the Northeast. Expertise in colony health, pest management, and honey production. Produced 12,000 pounds of honey annually; maintained 98% hive survival rate during winter months and trained 4 apprentices in sustainable beekeeping practices.
Work Experience
Head Beekeeper, Maple Hill Apiaries
Mar 2021 – Present. Commercial apiaries, 180 hives, honey and pollination services
- Managed 180 colonies across 6 apiaries; oversaw health assessments and hive splits
- Monitored for varroa mites and disease; implemented integrated pest management reducing losses 15%
- Coordinated honey harvest, processing, and bottling; produced 12,000 pounds annually
- Trained 2 beekeepers on bee biology, hive management, and equipment operation
Beekeeper, Valley Farms Pollination Service
Sep 2018 – Feb 2021. Agricultural pollination company, 80 hives
- Maintained 80 colonies providing pollination services to 6 area farms
- Conducted spring and fall inspections; recorded colony strength, brood patterns, and food reserves
- Implemented disease prevention protocols reducing American foulbrood incidents
- Managed equipment maintenance and conducted hive repairs throughout season
Apprentice Beekeeper, Northside Honey Cooperative
Apr 2016 – Aug 2018. Cooperative operation, 50 hives, education focus
- Learned hive management fundamentals through hands-on apprenticeship
- Assisted with inspections, honey extraction, and equipment maintenance
- Studied bee biology and colony disease identification
- Worked with mentor on 50 hives gaining experience across 2 full seasons
Education
University of Vermont
Certificate, Beekeeping and Bee Biology. Jan 2016 – Mar 2016
Skills
Colony management and inspection, Bee biology and behavior, Varroa mite and disease management, Honey extraction and processing, Equipment maintenance and repair, Hive splits and queen rearing, Pollination services coordination, Record keeping and data analysis, Safety protocols, Sustainable beekeeping practices
Languages
English
Certificates and Awards
- Beekeeping and Bee Biology Certificate, University of Vermont, 2016
- Certified Master Beekeeper, Vermont Beekeepers Association, 2021
Why this look works
Beekeeping combines environmental stewardship with practical business sense. A clean, professional design that conveys ecological responsibility works well. The layout should reflect both the science and the craft.
Resume tips for this job
- Include your hive numbers and production volumes. Managing 20 hives is different from 200; showing scale matters.
- Highlight disease and pest management knowledge. Varroa mites and foulbrood are critical concerns; showing you know how to handle them demonstrates competence.
- Mention certifications and apprenticeships. Beekeeping organizations offer training; showing you've completed formal programs builds credibility.
Common questions
Do I need a license to keep bees?
Most states don't require a license for beekeeping, but they often require registration or permits. Always check your local regulations. Many states offer training and certification through beekeeping associations, which employers value.
How do I get started if I've never kept bees?
Start with a beekeeping class and apprenticeship. Universities and local beekeeping clubs offer 1 to 3-day courses. Then work with a mentor for a full season before starting your own hives. This path builds skills safely and builds your network.
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The person, employers and numbers in this example are fictional, written to show what a strong resume for this job looks like.