Calling aspiring homesteaders!
Lily Farms is looking for a seasonal farm assistant to help with day-to-day operations of our emerging, diversified farm in East Dover, Vermont. The ideal candidate has a strong interest in learning how to build and operate a small farmstead and enjoys working outside in all conditions.
The farm assistant will work directly with the farm manager on a variety of tasks:
Growing annual vegetables in a 100’ x 100’ organic garden
Planting a 3-acre mixed fruit orchard
Cultivating log-grown shiitake mushrooms
Caring for a small flock of sheep and laying hens, including building animal shelters and setting up electric fencing
Installing new permanent perimeter fence and gates
Improving trails on 250+ forested acres
Harvesting timber and milling lumber for building projects
Cutting firewood for multiple uses
Selective thinning of woodland areas for maple sugaring, silvopasture and recreation
Landscaping, including regular mowing, weedwhacking and brush clearing
Performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting of farm equipment and machinery
This is a seasonal position focused on the summer growing season, with the possibility of extension for the right candidate. The work week is generally Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, but some flexibility is required. Ability to cover basic farm chores (watering plants, feeding animals) on occasional weekends is a major plus.
Must be able to work cooperatively with one or two other people, follow instructions carefully, and complete small tasks independently in a timely fashion. Must not be afraid to try something new but also know when to ask for help.
Compensation is $15-25/hr depending on your prior experience and existing skill set. Eat as much fresh produce from the garden as you like.
The farm has been slowly developing since 2018 but is ramping up quickly. This year we plan to build a barn, introduce livestock, plant an orchard and expand our garden and maple sugaring operations. There are numerous smaller projects as well as routine property and equipment maintenance responsibilities. We do many things by hand and also operate large machinery, so be prepared for both. A mature, competent assistant will have the opportunity to (learn to) use a tractor, skidsteer, excavator, sawmill, firewood processor and many smaller tools.
We are looking for someone who is excited to learn and ready to pitch in wherever needed. There is no specific experience or expertise required, though some basic farm knowledge and skills will go a long way. Most important is having an open mind and positive attitude.
If interested, please send a brief email to the farm manager ([email protected]) explaining your interest and experience. For promising candidates, we will arrange a work visit to see if it’s a good fit. We look forward to hearing from you!