Farm Steward/Entrepreneurial Grower - Diversified Agriculture & Maple Syrup (Southern Vermont)

Contact Name
Jonathan Cavanagh
Phone Number
6178173908
Details

Join us in developing a 275-acre haven in beautiful Southern Vermont into a thriving, resilient food-producing landscape. We are seeking a passionate and skilled Farm Steward to partner with us in expanding our operations, with a strong focus on maple syrup production and diversified agriculture. We are committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all and strongly encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply. This is a unique opportunity to build revenue-positive farming initiatives and shape the future of our farm, utilizing existing infrastructure and contributing to exciting new projects.

Our Farm:

  • Maple Syrup: 35 acres of sugarbush, ready for 500 taps (potential for 3000). Refurbished 16x24 sugarhouse, equipment for immediate production. We are committed to incremental expansion.
  • Established Infrastructure: 15 acres fenced, near-complete 30’x50’ conditioned barn/garage with bathroom, active 80-tree orchard, and 100’x100’ garden.
  • Diversified Agriculture: Opportunities for vegetable production, orchard/berry management, log-grown shiitake mushroom cultivation, silvopasture development, and potential livestock (sheep, chickens).
  • Wood Production: Sustainable forestry management, firewood processing, timber milling (Woodmeizer sawmill), brush chipping, and reforestation.
  • Infrastructure Projects: Building a high-performance winter greenhouse with earth battery, root cellar, chicken coop, garden tool shed, sheep shed, and equipment canopy.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead maple syrup production, including tapping, boiling, packaging, and expansion.
  • Manage and develop existing garden and orchard operations.
  • Implement and cultivate new revenue-generating agricultural initiatives.
  • Maintain and repair farm equipment and vehicles.
  • Contribute to infrastructure development projects.
  • Participate in wood production activities.
  • Manage livestock.
  • Maintain farm grounds, trails, and access roads.
  • Contribute to farm planning and revenue generating initiatives.

Valued Skills:

  • Extensive maple syrup production experience.
  • Strong mechanical and maintenance skills (including welding and chainsaw maintenance).
  • Carpentry and construction skills.
  • Regenerative farming knowledge.
  • Food processing and storage skills.
  • Experience with small engine repair.

Candidate Values:

  • Honesty, integrity, and strong work ethic.
  • Commitment to safety and quality craftsmanship.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  • Dedication to sustainable practices and resourcefulness.
  • Timeliness and productivity.

Compensation:

  • Open to various compensation arrangements, including potential for revenue sharing or profit-based incentives.
  • Negotiable based on experience and contribution.