Farm Assistant/ Part Time

Morse Brook Farm is seeking a  part time year round farm assistant. Position available immediately (October 2024)

20-25 hours a week, must be available one weekend day.

Primary responsibilities include:

• clearing invasive species and reclaiming field edges using power equipment such as chainsaws and walk behind brush hog
• general maintenance of farm such as snow clearing, mowing, fence repair 
• animal care including setting fence for rotational grazing during grazing season and feeding and watering animals in the barn in winter months,
• assisting with health checks, lambing (March/April/May)
• assisting with haying 2-3 times a year
• Other tasks as assigned

Requirements:

This job requires sustained physical labor on a daily basis.

• Must be able to lift 50 lbs 
• Comfortable working outdoors all year
• Be able to work cooperatively with other farm staff
• Be able to work independently on single person projects
• Available one weekend day
• Comfortable around livestock (sheep and cattle), livestock guardian dogs

Preference:

• Some schedule flexibility
• Animal care experience (must have willingness to learn)

Compensation:

• Hourly wage depending on experience $15-18/hour
• For the right person part of compensation is onsite housing - private room. Kitchen,bath, laundry shared with very occasional volunteer visitors. Must be a team player
• Opportunities to learn about all aspects of sheep farming, working with herding and LGD dogs (we place a heavy emphasis on learning opportunities)

Please send a letter of interest and job experience to:

[email protected] or 

Liz Shaw

Morse Brook Farm 

226 Kurkul Rd Westminster, VT 05346

About Morse Brook Farm

Morse Brook Farm is  a 207 acre pasture based sheep farm located in Westminster, VT We primarily raise sheep for meat and wool. In addition to our 150 sheep we have some beef cattle and a sugar bush where we produce Maple Syrup.We are in the process of renovating the 80 acres of fields through rotational grazing, targeted management and focused invasive species control, without the use of  herbicides or synthetic fertilizers. We manage our livestock with the use of Border Collies for herding and Maremma Sheepdogs for guarding the flock. We regularly provide educational opportunities on the role of sheep dogs. Our hope is to increase species diversity in our pastures, provide habitat for wildlife in our woods and fields and coexist with the natural world around us while providing sheep related products. We are not organic but promote sustainable and regenerative practices.

Position summary:

Plowshare Farm is in search of a farmer with dairy, pasture care, and equipment experience, who is open to biodynamic principles, to join our farm crew and help carry our animal husbandry, dairy and meat production. Strong candidates will have experience in pasture care, grazing rotation, fencing, haying, maintenance of farm equipment, herd health oversight, and other aspects of animal husbandry.

We are specifically looking for someone whose primary task will be caring for the land and animals. (While growing into a role working with our community members with special needs is a possibility for the future, this is not our primary need.)

About Plowshare Farm:

Nestled in the woods of southern New Hampshire, Plowshare is a community of about 45 people who choose to live and work side by side, building an inclusive and sustainable community. Our farm and animals are an integral part of our community. With a small cattle herd including 2-3 milkers, sheep, layer chickens, meat birds, and usually a couple of pigs, we strive to care for our animals well while producing milk, eggs, and meat to sustain our community. (Our farm operation could grow to include other livestock if there is a need/use for it and a commitment to carry it forward.)

Plowshare is part of the worldwide Camphill movement, a movement of inclusive communities wherein people with and without developmental disabilities live and work side by side. As an Anthroposophically-based lifesharing community, we are innovators creating a model of social and ecological renewal.

Benefits:

Plowshare Farm seeks to meet living needs so that energy may be freed for vocations. Benefits of this position include:

• On-farm private housing – we have standalone housing for an individual, a couple or a small family to join us (Plowshare is a great place to raise children).
• A “cash benefit” income, with pay commensurate with experience/responsibility.
• Shared community meals (community lunches Monday to Friday) and a share of the vegetables, dairy and meat produced on the farm.
• Health insurance and a monthly employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Two free days per week, and 6 weeks of vacation annually
• A retirement plan (eligible after the first year).
• Plowshare also supports completion of Biodynamic and/or Social Therapeutic trainings.

To start a conversation, please email [email protected] or call (603) 547-2547.

For more information about our community, please visit www.plowsharefarm.org. 

I am moving myself to Maine next Spring/ Summer and in the process of closing up my micro cut flower farm in Dummerston/ Putney VT. I am renting land currently and looking for a good home for all my perennial stock that can't stay. I am not sure yet where I will be landing and transitioning my stock sounds too complicated. I would be really happy to see everything land in the hands of another farmer/ loving grower. Dummerston is located just outside Brattleboro, VT.

I have about 80 Peony Roots to dig up in multiple varieties, maybe 20 are Sarah Bernhardt and then 8-10 of each Duchesse De Nemours, Coral Charm, Itoh Pink, Kansas, and others. I can give you the full list if interested.  

My Dahlia Root stock is right now is about 80 flowering plants, I will find out how many tubers that is once I dig up post-frost. A wide mix, max 3-5 plants of any one variety. Includes Cafe Au Laits, Labyrinth, American Dawn, Burlesca, Peach Balls, White Balls, Cornel Bronze Balls, Orange Balls, Yellow Balls, Purple Balls, Black Lily , Cornel Red Balls, Lily Flowering Whites, Lily Pink, Purpley-Coral Variegated Balls, etc. I can provide a more full list if interested. 

I would offer bulk pricing as a lot for all. Numbers are approximate. I would consider selling the Peonies separate from the Dahlias. Shipping or pickup later this Fall once all dug.   

POSITION SUMMARY:

This is a full-time, year-round position that is crucial to our day-to-day operations for Farm Connex, CAE’s dynamic and expansive distribution program.  CAE Farm Connex provides cold-chain freight service for farmers and food producers who may be “too small” or “too rural” to access other distribution channels. CAE Farm Connex headquarters is physically based in Hardwick, where its operation spans 6 days per week, and up to 20 hours each day. The Warehouse Assistant will be responsible for supporting the Warehouse Coordinator in setting Farm Connex delivery drivers up for success each day, including ensuring inventory/product is properly loaded for deliveries, vehicles have been inspected for any issues and cleaned and sanitized, and any updates have been communicated to 1st shift operations management. The Warehouse Assistant role includes picking up products at local farms or aggregation centers (within half hour of warehouse). Occasionally, the Warehouse Assistant may also be required to fill in for a CAE Farm Connex Delivery Driver to complete deliveries on one of the 21+ routes completed weekly. CAE Farm Connex provides services to farms, value added food businesses,  retail stores, public and private schools, institutions, distribution centers, and other food hubs, keeping the literal wheels turning for our local food system and economy!

JOB DETAILS

Position: Farm Connex Warehouse Assistant

Reports to: Food Hub Operations Manager

Schedule: 32-40 hours per week 

Compensation: Hourly rate starting at $22.00 ; Non Exempt/regular position 

Benefits: Health Insurance and Health Savings Account, SIMPLE IRA, Employee assistance program, Employer-paid short-term disability and life insurance, quarterly phone stipend, paid time off, professional development compensation

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Skilled in organization and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team under changing circumstances
• Knowledge related to perishables warehouse and distribution
• As dictated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), as required to fulfill duties specific to this role, the minimum requirements include: being age 21+ at the time of application, possessing a valid driver’s license, a clean motor vehicle record, the critical faculties required to safely operate a commercial vehicle, and ability to pass a DOT medical exam. Be able to interpret signage, converse, take instructions, and record information in written and/or spoken English.  

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

Warehouse (75%)

• Maintaining clear, respectful, and responsive inter-shift communication
• Daily unloading and inventory of aggregated product
• Maintaining and communicating records for PM/AM receiving, product inventory, etc. 
• Staging of warehouse and loading products onto vehicles for current day-delivery according to established route plans and other work orders
• Updating daily route paperwork for shortages, overages, and other changes
• Cleaning warehouse and bathroom, emptying trash and recycling.  
• Help with cleaning and sanitizing trucks per SOP standards
• Executing other work orders as communicated by Operations Manager and Warehouse Coordinator, as necessary 
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment
• Maintain a proactive approach to problem-solving

Aggregation and Distribution (15%) 

• Operate medium-duty refrigerated vehicles safely when picking up products at local farms or fulfilling a delivery route on a requested basis
• Pick up orders & delivery of perishable products in a safe & appropriate manner
• Maintain accurate and organized daily delivery records
• Coordinate product pickups with Farm Connex team members
• Maintain reliable, frequent communication with managers on duty
• Responsible for communicating around vehicle status reports & daily vehicle with drivers, Operation Manager and Warehouse Coordinator
• Ability to independently perform job responsibilities in a variety of weather conditions
• Ability to proficiently handle fragile food products such as eggs and glass bottles
• Knowledge of basic food safety and handling guidelines

Customer service engagement (5%)

• Maintain the highest level of customer service with producers and receivers
• Communicate regularly with all the members of the Farm Connex team to report any potential issues or needs of producers

Respond to direct operational needs (5%)

• Adhere to all safety protocols (ex: OSHA, VT Dept of Health, CAE safety protocols)
• Adhere to all state and federal laws 
• Collaborate with staff when unexpected requests or issues arise to resolve them in a collaborative and timely manner 
• Pitch-in as needed (warehouse operations troubleshooting, product aggregation, order picking, truck loading, pickup/delivery, paperwork filing, etc.)

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Proficiency and comfort with standard office equipment and software systems (i.e. Microsoft Office and Google Suite) 
• Attend staff meetings, regularly check work email and respond to phone calls

Physical Demands/lifting requirements:

• Moderate-vigorous physical labor (lifting/pushing/pulling up to 75 lbs with some equipment assistance)
• Manually moving product with a hand truck up and down a ramp
• Operating a pallet jack, electrical walkie, forklift
• High level of safety and detail orientation 
• Work in cooler, freezer, warehouse, and outdoor settings
• Operating a non-CDL refrigerated truck safely on routes that are 4-12 hours long

Mental demands: 

• High level of organization and attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize and manage complex and developing systems & competing demands
• Ability to learn new tasks, remember processes, maintain focus
• Ability to make timely decisions in the context of a workflow and on the road

EOE STATEMENT

Building community leadership, investing in relationships, and listening to the needs of the community are core principles CAE applies to all our work. We strive to foster an inclusive and supportive staff culture where learning and growth are supported. CAE is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, disability, or veteran status. 

BACKGROUND ON CAE

The Center for an Agricultural Economy is a catalyst for change based in Hardwick, Vermont. We support rural communities and working landscapes by building a more interconnected local food system.  We work together with our neighbors and partners to cultivate interdependence and investigate how to create the conditions for socially, economically, and ecologically thriving communities. Together, the components of our organization help ensure our rural food system is supported, our farms are thriving, and everyone is treated with dignity and respect. 

HIRING PROCESS

This position is open until October 6. Applicants will have an initial phone interview, which may be followed by an in-person interview and review of our facility. Candidates will be asked to provide references. The job offer is contingent upon a clean motor vehicle record and the ability to pass a CDL medical exam. CAE is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will provide support in any way to ensure everyone's best experience in the hiring process. CAE will take the steps necessary to ensure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations during the interview process and, if hired, subsequent employment. For accommodation inquiries, please contact us at [email protected]

TO APPLY

Email [email protected] with your resume, cover letter, or letter of interest, and include “Farm Connex Warehouse Assistant” in your email subject line. We’re interested to hear your thoughts on any life or work experience as it relates to this position. Let us know if you have any questions!

The Center for Discovery 

The board of directors of Maine Farmland Trust (MFT) seeks a passionate advocate and inspiring leader to serve as president and CEO, and invites new applications for this position. Maine Farmland Trust protects farmland, supports farmers, and advances the future of farming in Maine. The overarching goal of this respected nonprofit is to protect Maine farmland and revitalize Maine’s rural landscape by keeping agricultural lands working and helping farmers and communities thrive.

Organizational Overview

Founded in 1999, Maine Farmland Trust is rooted in the belief that the future of farming depends on farmland and that the future of Maine communities depends on thriving farms. The organization’s evolving programming is designed to meet the complex and changing needs of the state’s farm community, with a consistent focus on:

• Farmland. Protecting Maine’s finite farmland from development and creating more affordable access to land for all farmers—through agricultural easements and other tools—is key to ensuring that Maine has the farmland and farmers needed to sustain our region long-term.
• Farmers. Thriving farm businesses feed Maine’s local communities and economy and keep farmland in farming. MFT’s Farm Network programs offer holistic support to farmers at every stage of the farming journey.
• Future. Through grassroots organizing and advocacy, policy change, research, storytelling, and collaboration with local farmers, MFT is helping create an environment that will support thriving, interconnected Maine farms for generations to come.

MFT supports a growing network of more than 500 farms through our programs, including permanent protection on more than 370 farms, keeping nearly 68,000 acres of farmland in agriculture. This Farm Network is representative of Maine’s diverse agricultural community, spanning all 16 counties and various scales and types of farming. MFT’s membership currently exceeds 2,200, and MFT’s staff work across the state, with offices in Belfast and Portland.

In recent years, MFT has firmly centered farmers’ voices and reorganized structurally to promote communication, collaboration, and holistic service to farmers; developed the strength of its staff leadership team, made critical organizational investments, deepened its policy and research program in recognition of the magnitude and complexity of the challenges at hand; and been a national leader in responding to the crisis of PFAS chemical contamination on farms. 

In the face of increasing development, environmental risks, market pressures, and a wave of farmers nearing retirement age, MFT’s work to protect farmland and support farmers is more important than ever. With an annual budget of more than $10 million, the organization has made steady progress toward its goals with the support of a growing community of Mainers dedicated to this vital work. 

More information about MFT’s leadership, programs, and specific impact can be found at the website: https://www.mainefarmlandtrust.org/.

Role and Responsibilities

The president and CEO oversees and guides strategy for public engagement and philanthropy and works in close collaboration with MFT’s leadership team to advance the organization’s strategic vision, deepening its impact. The president and CEO is instrumental in broadening MFT’s base of support, inspiring new levels of public and private commitment and enduring partnerships, including through the planning and execution of comprehensive fundraising campaigns; further magnifying farmers’ voices; and accelerating the changes needed to serve Maine farmers, secure Maine farmland, and protect Maine’s future. This individual partners with MFT’s leadership team on aspects related to financial management, programming, advocacy, farmer engagement, stewardship and board and staff development. 

The president and CEO will report directly to the board of directors and continue to foster a culture of trust, transparency, and teamwork among staff and the entire network.

Position Requirements

Leading Maine Farmland Trust will require an energetic visionary with a broad set of skills and abilities. The board expects that the successful candidate will bring to the organization:

• Senior-level leadership experience, preferably in the nonprofit sector, including proven ability to lead collaboratively and support a diverse, highly motivated, geographically dispersed staff
• Demonstrated ability to lead the implementation of an ambitious comprehensive fundraising strategy, with a focus on cultivating relationships with and securing transformative gifts from major donors, foundations, and other potential funders in a campaign context     
• A proven track record as an effective relationship-builder, and as a skilled and confident communicator who is poised to listen and ready to represent MFT among an array of audiences, ranging from farmers to policymakers to funders
• Ability and desire to work collaboratively with members of MFT’s strong, seasoned leadership team
• Excellent financial acumen, with proven experience in organizational sustainability, budgetary management and oversight, planning, and goal setting
• Experience in developing and executing strategic plans that result in measurable outcomes
• Experience working in partnership with a board of directors and supporting strategic board development and best governance practice
• Skill in facilitating complex discussions and engaging with a diversity of interested parties     
• An understanding of the complexities of conservation and agriculture, and an appreciation for the people who steward our land and grow our food
• Authenticity, curiosity, humility, and adaptability, with a fundamentally kind and compassionate approach
• Demonstrated commitment to and experience in advancing diversity, equity, justice, and inclusion

This position can be based out of Maine Farmland Trust’s Portland or Belfast office.

Compensation 

The president and CEO will earn a competitive salary of $170,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience, and benefits including a group health plan, group vision and dental plans, a 401(K) retirement plan, wellness and farm share benefits, and paid vacation, holidays and other forms of paid time-off. The successful candidate can expect a formal review after the initial six months, as well as an annual review thereafter.

Nondiscrimination

Maine Farmland Trust does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, national origin, ancestry, public assistance, ethnic background, religion, marital status, economic class, age, disability, sex, creed, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression and any other legally protected characteristic. The organization complies with all applicable national, state, and local laws pertaining to nondiscrimination and equal opportunity.

To apply 

Interested candidates should send a resume and a cover letter explaining why they are interested in this opportunity and how it is well-aligned with their strengths to Starboard Leadership Consulting at the following address: [email protected]. Inquiries may be directed to the same email address. Paper copies of applications may be sent to Jessica Weiner, Starboard Leadership Consulting, 84 Harlow St., Bangor, ME 04401, but electronic submissions of material are preferred.  No phone inquiries, please. 

The application deadline is Wednesday, October 23, and review of all submissions will begin immediately thereafter. 

Philo Ridge Farm (PRF) is a certified organic 500-acre farm in Charlotte, Vermont, a rich agricultural community in the Champlain Valley, just south of Burlington.

PRF is a diversified farm in its seventh year of production. We grow two acres of organic produce and perennial fruits alongside two year-round greenhouses. Our farming practices build soil health, produce a variety of nutrient-dense foods, reduce the use of fossil fuels, and support the local agricultural community. The farm is also home to our restaurant, Market, and commercial food processing facilities, and is a year-round gathering place in the community.

Job Summary: Philo Ridge Farm is seeking an experienced, solution-oriented leader to be our Gardens & Growing Manager. The Gardens & Growing Manager’s work is rooted in the farm’s ecological mission to steward a responsible, sustainable, organic agricultural system. This position will be a member of the operations team on the farm and will oversee all aspects of garden planning, operations, and administrative processes. The Gardens & Growing Manager will provide day-to-day management and operational coordination of the garden team, equipment, resources, and facilities.

As the farm hosts community events, education spaces and other workshops, the Gardens & Growing Manager participates in and supports these events alongside the rest of the team. The Gardens & Growing Manager must share PRF’s passion for land conservation and stewardship, organic agricultural production, collaborative research initiatives, and a commitment to using our land and resources for the benefit of our community. In collaboration with the owners, the Gardens & Growing Manager is responsible for coordinating the use and activation of the vegetable growing area at the farm, which is approximately two acres and consists of two primary fields, a greenhouse, a propagation house, three caterpillar tunnels, and perennial plantings around the farm property.

This is a multi-faceted role with many diverse responsibilities, requiring a strong operational and agricultural know-how, an intrapreneurial and creative thinking-centered approach to problem-solving and a long-range focus on continuous improvement and creating and bringing value to the community. As a member of the operations team, the Gardens & Growing Manager will be a clear communicator, an active listener, and a source of positive inspiration for the team at the farm.

Responsibilities

Operations

• Manage department staff and all day-to-day garden department operations and activities
• Oversee all aspects of organic production including propagation, field work, and integrated pest and disease management in compliance with Organic Certification
• Collaborate closely with the Kitchen to inform cultivation decisions and maximize utilization
• Collaborate closely with farm teams and the owners for consistent alignment of priorities
• Maintain records for Organic Certification
• Manage care and cultivation of perennial buffer zones
• Manage care and cultivation of orchard trees, berries, flowers, and all gardens
• Communicate clearly with leadership and garden teams and contractors to define roles
• Work alongside the research team to support on-going research activities related to soil health
• Work with the leadership to support special events, educational experiences, and farm tours

Infrastructure & Equipment

• Oversee all vehicles and heavy equipment used for growing work including on-road vehicles and trailers, tractors, skid steer, and gator
• Ensure all vehicles and equipment is properly maintained and serviced with current and required insurance, registration, and licensing
• Oversee all growing related buildings and facilities, ensure that buildings/spaces are maintained for workplace safety compliance and that all are on a regular maintenance
• Oversee general maintenance of all department-specific machinery, tools, and equipment

Business Administration

• Lead all finance processes related to department operations and planning, including budget management and forecasting, and review of department-level P&L performance
• Track and report monthly inventory of produce
• Support all HR processes related to department operations including payroll preparation and time tracking, performance management and evaluations, recruiting, hiring, onboarding, orientation, training and all termination and offboarding for direct reports
• Support leadership with general administrative processes and content development

Qualifications

• First-hand experience hiring, training, and managing a field crew, including the ability to organize schedules for daily coverage
• Experience developing and managing an annual budget, including the ability to forecast sales, costs, and labor
• Demonstrated experience in annual production systems and creative growing practices
• Significant prior experience in organic vegetable farming at a production scale
• Capacity to listen and respond to diverse organizational and community stakeholders
• Interest in supporting research activities related to soil health and ecosystem services
• Passion for farming, local food systems, land management, environmentalism, hospitality
• An interest in developing regenerative agricultural systems
• Ability to operate and maintain key equipment including tractors, BCS, skid steer, etc.
• Openness to experimenting with varieties and cultivation methods (i.e., BCS, tractor, no-till)
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to develop collaborative working relationships
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with project management capabilities
• Self-starter who can work independently and solve probs creatively
• Ability and willingness to do hard physical work in all weather conditions
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

The Gardens & Growing Manager will report to the Executive Director, will work at Philo Ridge Farm, and will need to live locally. This position is on-site daily Monday-Friday, 7 am to 3:30 pm, with occasional evenings and weekends required.

Compensation range is $55,000-65,000, commensurate with experience

Qualified candidates, please email [email protected] with the title “PRF Gardens & Growing Manager”.

Please include the below information in your email. Qualified candidates will be contacted directly.

• Cover letter explaining interest in this job
• Resume
• Available start date
• Three professional references with contact information