The Center for Rural Studies at the University of Vermont (UVM) seeks applications for an experienced podcast producer to edit and produce a limited series of podcasts. The podcast is a deliverable of a cooperative agreement between the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and UVM.
The topic of the podcasts is related to Food Hub Manager Roles. The source material is a series of recordings and transcripts of interviews conducted by CRS with food hub operators and experts and aligned with an educational toolkit.
The consultant will work with the UVM and USDA teams to edit and produce approximately four podcast episodes, each approximately 30-60 minutes in length, on various topics of operations.
Suggested Scope of Work

1. Podcast production utilizing raw recordings and edited transcripts of interviews with food hub manager/food hub advisory panel members. The project team will also provide other resources to support episode development.

1. Podcast editing and production project timeline between January –March 2025 (3-month engagement.

1. All podcast episodes finalized by March 30th, 2025

1. Development of full podcast transcripts with potential for Spanish language optional captions to podcast episodes.

1. USDA/UVM meetings for review of podcast outputs and drafts throughout life of project.

*A food hub is a type of local food distributor: it aggregates locally and regionally grown food from farmers and other vendors and distributes to buyers such as schools, hospitals, restaurants and small retailers. It is distinct from a more traditional food distributor in that it has an underlying mission to support local and regional food systems, farm viability, and food access.

A total of up to $7,000 is available to the chosen applicant. Your response to this RFP should include a proposed budget with detailed line items that reflect the above timeframe of the project.

Along with the proposed budget, please send a cover letter, min 2 references and examples of your podcast production work.

Additional funds of up to $3,000 are available for marketing, branding and dissemination of the final products.

Applicants who wish to provide these services should indicate so, and add a brief scope of work and budget for these activities to the application

Criteria for selection will include:

* Experience in editing and producing high quality podcasts

* Knowledge of local and regional food systems issues with specific understanding of food hubs as a plus.

* Budget in alignment with existing RFP.

Send materials, by November 10, 2024: cover letter, resume/CV, examples of work, and a proposed budget to: David Conner, at email david.conner@uvm.edu with subject: Food Hub Podcasts.

Agency: Farm Service Agency

Title:  Urban County Executive Director – Expanded

Pay Plan-Grade: CO 9/11/12

Announcement Number: URAG-12561779-24-MA-HA

Open Period: 9/30/24 – 10/15/24

Duty Location: Westford, MA

Who May Apply:  public

Direct Link to Announcement  USAJOBS – Job Announcement

Agency: Farm Service Agency

Title:  Urban County Program Analyst

Pay Plan-Grade: CO 5/7/9

Announcement Number: URAG-12558547-24-MA-HA

Open Period: 9/30/24 – 10/15/24

Duty Location: Westford, MA

Who May Apply:  public

Direct Link to Announcement  USAJOBS – Job Announcement

Everybody’s Community Store Program Manager (SPM)

Organization: Stone Soup Café, Inc.

Location: Greenfield, MA

Position Type: Part-Time (10 – 15 hrs/week) Fri: 11am – 5pm, Sat (9:30 am-2:30 pm), 1 hour pre-shift meeting on Fridays, 1 hour post shift meeting on Saturdays, 1 hour of admin flex time per week.

Starting: No later than October 4, 2024

Compensation: $21/hr

Interested Applicants please email letter of interest, and resume to Kirsten Levitt, Executive Director: Admin@thestonesoupcafe.org

About Us: Stone Soup Café (SSC) is a 501c3 organization serving the residents of Franklin County from our location at the All Souls Church in downtown Greenfield. It is the mission of Stone Soup Café to create a community space where all are welcome to share nourishment, connection, and learning for body, mind, and spirit. The three central programs that make up Stone Soup are our Pay What You Can Saturday Meal, Everybody’s Community Store, and the Stone Soup Culinary Institute.

Job Summary: To plan and implement Everybody’s Community Store at Stone Soup Café.

This position reports to the Executive Director, and collaborates with other staff as needed to procure food and other goods for distribution at Everybody’s Community Store. It is the role of the SPM to plan and implement the program, represent the organization in our community, carry-out program and participant data collection, and to manage and direct volunteer efforts for the program.

Qualifications:

• Experience with project management
• Knowledge about healthy eating practices
• Fluent in vegetables and their storage and uses – aka food literate!
• Exceptional interpersonal and collaboration skills for engaging with staff, guests, and volunteers
• Proficient Google Suite, especially with spreadsheet and basic data management systems. Basic knowledge of statistics. Attention to detail.
• Commitment to working with shared leadership and in cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple projects at a time.
• This project has physical demands that require bending, lifting and carrying (50lbs) and being outside during all weather conditions.

Responsibilities:

• Food Procurement:
  • Make Food Bank Orders for the Store (attend required program trainings, maintain records as needed and report program statistics monthly to FBWM.)
  • When funding allows, make supplemental purchases as needed to round out the offerings at the free store and procure items beyond those gleaned or available from the Food Bank.
  • Coordinate donations from partner agencies and build the network of program collaborators and supporters
• Food Storage:
  • Manage the cold and dry storage of items in the pantry, freezer, and fridges. Follow food safety protocols.
• Program implementation:
  • Coordinate volunteer efforts on Fridays to store pantry items in bins and to stack the shelves and prepare and plan inventory for Saturday’s Store.
  • Direct and teach new and recurring volunteers how to: set up, break down, and staff Everybody’s Community Store during service.
  • Collaborate with the outdoor set up team, curbside meal service team, and the delivery team to create seasonal models of service (winter model and summer model)
  • During service, restock items as needed and impose limits when necessary to ensure fair access to as many guests as possible
  • Create policies that improve and advance the function, efficiency, accessibility, and equitable access to Everybody’s Community Store
• Organizational participation
  • Attend Staff Meetings and pre (Friday) and post (Sat) service meetings
  • Print program invoices and put them and other receipts in the “To Be Paid” folder
  • Track and submit hours for payroll
• Uphold the values and mission of Stone Soup Café

Interested Applicants please email letter of interest, and resume to Kirsten Levitt, Executive Director: Admin@thestonesoupcafe.org

The mission of Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts (RTWM) is to alleviate hunger and reduce the waste of food resources in Western Mass. Rachel’s Table takes a holistic and collaborative approach toward food security by supporting an intergenerational volunteer effort to feed and nourish our local communities. Learn more at www.feedwma.org.

RTWM is hiring a Growing Gardens Site Steward to support stabilization of its Growing Gardens program, which supports local agencies in building and maintaining on-site gardens in which they grow culturally appropriate food with their constituents. Sites are diverse and may serve youth, seniors, unhoused adults, people with disabilities, immigrants, and more. Current sites are in Hampden County, though the program might expand into Hampshire and/or Franklin Counties in the future.

Position Summary: The GG Site Steward cultivates a collegial network of agency-gardeners and volunteers that feel connected to each other and collective knowledge and resources. They support agencies in day-to-day development and management of their gardens, and they steward program volunteers. They support the program director in program administration and event coordination. This grant-funded, consultant role is a “people” position as much as it is a “technical” position. This position will be from November 2024 through December 31, 2025, with potential to be renewed in 2026.

Compensation: $23/hour + mileage reimbursement at Federal rate. Requires bi-weekly submission of invoice or timesheet including number of hours worked, a breakdown of hours by task, and a mileage record including starting and ending destinations and total number of miles driven.

Schedule & Hours: 

• 7-10 hours per week (higher end during growing season, lower end in winter)
• Occasional attendance at in-person staff meetings at the Springfield JCC or staff retreats at varying locations;
• Virtual or in-person attendance at weekly check-in meetings with supervisor;
• Attendance at GG workshops and events throughout Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin counties throughout the year.
• Most partner sites operate within regular business days/hours (M-F 9am-5pm), so site visits, meetings, and events must occur during these hours. Otherwise, precise working hours are flexible and work that does not pertain to a specific garden site or event can be done remotely.

Roles & Responsibilities: 

 Primary/priority responsibilities: 

• Regularly visit each of approximately 10 garden sites in Hampden County to connect with staff and constituents, offer recommendations and resources, and/or provide technical support;
• Track and document progress and challenges at each site;
• Document expenses for each site and submit receipts and reimbursement requests to supervisor in accordance with RTWM administrative procedures;
• Assist with volunteer stewardship by supporting volunteer recruitment, following up with people who have indicated interest in volunteering, and maintaining communication with established program volunteers;
• Work with supervisor to determine and implement sustainability plans for each garden site;
• Develop educational materials and work with interpreters as needed for language accessibility;
• Participate in debriefs and strategy discussions to determine future trajectories of the program.

Secondary responsibilities: 

• Collaborate with supervisor on planning and implementation of events and workshops;
• Coordinate language interpretation and other accommodations as necessary for GG events and workshops;
• Share facilitation of monthly virtual lunch chats with supervisor.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Embodies commitment to RTWM’s mission and vision;
• Has at least two years of experience gardening and/or working in urban agriculture settings;
• Possesses technical knowledge in two or more of the following areas: irrigation at different scales, crop planning, crop health, integrative pest management, soil health, food production infrastructure
• Enjoys teaching others and supporting empowerment and leadership development;
• Ability to work with people with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and languages;
• Creativity and capacity to source materials in economically and ecologically efficient ways;
• Strong communication skills;
• Excellent time-management and organizational skills;
• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team;
• Strong attention to details;
• Basic to intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and capacity to learn more as needed;
• Basic proficiency with Canva and one or more social media platforms.

To apply: 

Please send a cover letter or video explaining your interest and unique skills and experience as well as a resume or list of relevant courses/jobs/experience to Director of Intercultural Learning & Land-Based Programs Cara Michelle Silverberg at csilverberg@feedwma.org. Application deadline is October 20, 2024.

Horticulture/Farming Teacher – Adult Education Program

Franklin County Technical School is seeking a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Horticulture/Farming Teacher for our Adult Education Program. The position offers flexible days, with classes held from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on assigned evenings. The pay is $95 per hour.

As the instructor, you will have autonomy over the curriculum, empowering you to create engaging and practical learning experiences for adult learners.

Requirements:

• Expertise in horticulture, farming, or a related field
• Passion for teaching adult learners
• Ability to manage a hands-on learning environment

If you are interested in shaping the future of adult education and sharing your expertise, we encourage you to apply! Send a resume and cover letter to Justin Lawrence, Adult Education Coordinator at jlawrence@fcts.us or call (413) 863-9561 ext.152

MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Franklin County Career and Technical Institute is to empower adult learners with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to succeed in their chosen career paths by offering innovative, hands-on learning opportunities and industry-aligned programs that will prepare them to meet the demands of the ever-evolving workforce.

QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field preferred.
• Teaching experience and relevant certifications are preferred.
• Profound knowledge of horticultural principles, techniques, and best practices.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• A passion for adult education and a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment.

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS:
• Must be able to see and respond to dangerous situations.
• Must be able to lift and carry or otherwise move 80 pounds regularly.
• Must be able to wear personal protective gear for all of the scheduled shift.
• Must be able to walk and stand for at least half of scheduled shift

JOB GOAL
As the Adult Horticulture Teacher, you will play a key role in educating and inspiring adult learners. Your expertise will help students develop essential skills and knowledge to excel in local horticultural industries.

REPORTS TO
The Adult Education and Night School Coordinator

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
• Instruction: Deliver engaging and comprehensive horticulture concepts to adult learners, covering topics such as plant biology, landscaping, soil science, and safe tool and equipment operation.
• Practical Training: Provide hands-on training and demonstrations to help students gain practical skills and experience in horticultural practices.
• Assessment: Evaluate student progress and provide feedback to support their development in the field.
• Classroom Management: Maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment that fosters student engagement and participation.
• Safety: Ensure that all activities and practices are conducted in a safe and responsible manner, adhering to all safety regulations and guidelines.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Salary and benefits to be established by mutually agreed upon appointment letter.

EVALUATION
Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the District Committee’s policy on evaluations.

AGRICULTURAL SPECIALIST

The Agricultural Specialist is responsible for communications, planning and project management pertaining to agriculture on Land Bank property and to ensure responsible stewardship of property interests protected by the Land Bank. While collaborating with all Land Bank staff, the Agricultural Specialist is a position within the Environmental Department responsible for interacting with stakeholders to advance the Agricultural component of the Land Bank Act. This position reports to the Research Ecologist and communicates regularly with the Interim Executive Director. Approximately 50% of duties are performed in an office setting and 50% of duties are performed in the field. Schedule will be 35 hours per week, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Salary commensurate with education and experience; includes full benefits. Must have a valid driver’s license. CORI check required. Cover letter, resume and references must be received by the Nantucket Land Bank no later than Friday, September 27, 2024. Please email applications to scampese@nantucketlandbank.org.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES:
• Establish positive relationships with farmers, resulting in increased interactions and greater awareness of Land Bank goals, regulatory compliance and implementation of conservation practices.
• Develop, execute and enforce licenses and policies for farms and community gardens on Land Bank property.
• Assist with operations of Land Bank farms and community gardens as needed.
• Further soil and water conservation practices, organic and regenerative growing methods, environmental stewardship and water quality policies and practices on Land Bank farms by providing technical assistance to farmers or connecting farmers with resources to acquire the necessary technical assistance.
• Seek new opportunities for the Land Bank to acquire or license agricultural property.
• Working with the Land Bank’s Outreach Coordinator, design and implement agricultural outreach programming for farmers and the public.
• Form partnerships with farmers, funders, municipal officials and not-for-profits which result in the advancement of agricultural opportunities on Nantucket.
• Participate in the Nantucket Agricultural Commission.
• Collaborate with the Department of Property Management, Department of Natural Resources and Executive Director on strategic planning efforts related to the Land Bank’s role in agriculture on Nantucket.
• Provide assistance to other departments with projects and events as necessary as well as any
other duties as assigned by the Property Foreman, Research Ecologist and/or Executive Director.

REQUIREMENTS
This position requires being philosophically committed to the mission of the Nantucket Land Bank, possessing a working knowledge of the agricultural industry in New England, having excellent organizational and communication skills, and being a self-starter. This is a new position and therefore being self-directed, capable of both initiating new ideas and seeing projects through to completion, is imperative.

Education and Experience
• College degree or equivalent work experience.
• Agricultural work experience.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Knowledge Skills, and Abilities
• High level of confidentiality, judgment, personal responsibility, and dependability.
• Exhibit excellent communications skills and a willingness to speak with the public and deliver intended messages effectively.
• Maintain a positive attitude and optimistic approach to solving problems or challenges.
• Ability to manage a variety of concurrent responsibilities and activities efficiently.
• Capacity to work independently in the field.
• Ability to navigate in rural settings using a map/plan, compass, and/or GPS.
• Ability to understand and interpret construction plans, property deeds, property surveys, and related documents.
• Possess initiative, be a self-starter and independently follow tasks through to completion.

PREFERENCES:
• Preference for a degree in regenerative agriculture, sustainable food systems, sustainable horticulture, environmental planning, land management, landscape architecture, environmental or agricultural engineering or environmental sciences.

SEMAP (Southeastern MA Agricultural Partnership) is hiring a Program Coordinator to work with farmers in Southeastern Massachusetts (Bristol, Plymouth and Norfolk Counties). A detailed description of the position is below and also on our website.

To Apply send a resume, cover letter and list of three references to jobs@semaponline.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with priority given to those received by October 15th.

For any questions, please reach out to Susan Murray: smurray@semaponline.org

Program Coordinator | Apply by October 15, 2024

The Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP) seeks a creative, thoughtful, and well-organized person with a passion for local agriculture to be our Program Coordinator. This full-time position will work closely with and support farmers in Southeastern Massachusetts by implementing educational programming, technical assistance, local food promotion, advocacy and outreach.

Hours: Salaried & Exempt, this position is a 40-hour work week with some weekend and evening work required.

Salary: $42,000 – $52,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications for the full-time position.

Benefits: This position is eligible for full-time benefits including paid time off, a health care stipend, 11 paid holidays, a stipend to set-up a home office, mileage reimbursement, and opportunities for professional development.

Location/Travel: This is a 100% remote position with regular travel to meet with farmers in Bristol, Norfolk and Plymouth counties.

Who we are: The Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving farmers and promoting local food in Bristol, Plymouth and Norfolk Counties. Our mission is to cultivate a healthy SE Massachusetts by strengthening connections between farms, communities and the land and creating a regional food system that is equitable, resilient and accessible. We connect, advocate and educate to build thriving agricultural communities that work for all.

Responsibilities:

• Work 1-on-1 with farmers and fishers to determine how we can assist them, and then implement or coordinate technical assistance to meet those needs.
• Assist in planning and running virtual and on-farm workshops, winter conference, and other educational & networking events.
• Ensure programs meet grant objectives. Collect and organize data necessary for grant reporting.
• Regularly communicate with farmers in SE Mass. Distribute information on programs, grants and events relevant to farmers through a monthly newsletter, email, social media and direct outreach.
• Participate in SEMAP’s advocacy efforts, fundraising events, local food promotion, and community building.
• Engage in culture-building and organization development processes.
• Contribute to ongoing discussion and integration of equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism into our operations and projects.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Passionate about local agriculture.
• Experience farming or fishing, working with producers or supporting the local food system.
• A commitment to equity, justice, and inclusion, as well as a growing understanding of how inequities appear in our regional food system.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse community groups and partner organizations.
• High level of organization, self-motivation, ability to work independently in a remote work environment, but also a team player able to collaborate on projects with others.
• Strong problem solving skills and excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working with a team remotely using collaborative workplace technology tools, e.g. Google suite (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Chat, Meet); Adobe Acrobat; Zoom; and workflow management (Asana)
• Knowledgeable about working in Constant Contact, Facebook Meta Business Suite, Canva or similar design and communications platforms.
• Ability to travel throughout SE Massachusetts to meet with farmers year-round.

Desired Skills and Experience (not required):

• Connections to the farming community.
• Knowledge of sustainable food production.
• Experience in organizing and promoting events or workshops.
• Experience in grant writing and/or project management.
• Experience owning and running a business.
• General small-business skills, including: knowledge of business structures, financial management, quickbooks, building websites, and marketing.
• Experience working with Town Hall departments and/or permitting for food businesses.

We recognize that knowledge, experience, and potential are expressed differently for different people. We encourage anyone with an interest in the position to apply, even if they do not meet 100% of the desired qualifications!

To Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume and a list of three references to jobs@semaponline.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with priority given to those received by October 15th.

SEMAP does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Round the Bend Farm (RTB), a Center for Restorative Community, located in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, is a 115-acre working farm and educational non-profit. We are a living laboratory that cultivates, educates, and empowers people of all ages. We are devoted to the global paradigm shift toward hope and abundance by valuing diversity, modeling nature, and redefining wealth. RTB is seeking a passionate and motivated individual to join our team as a full-time Farming Manager for our Manifest Love program. We are accepting applications until end of day on Friday, November 1, 2024. Anticipated start date is December 2024 or January 2025.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Our Manifest Love Farming Manager position requires a highly motivated and energetic individual; someone who is passionate about RTB’s mission, local food systems, and plant-based foods. This teammate will participate in the overall mission of RTB, working closely with (and overseeing) our Manifest Love team in all aspects relating to vegetable and fruit production and land management for our Manifest Love program. Our Manifest Love program (a collaboration between RTB, YWCA Southeastern MA, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, NorthStar Learning Centers, and Sacred Birthing Village) is a free weekly food share program for approximately 150 families in New Bedford. Food share contents are grown on approximately 5-6 acres at RTB and occasionally gleaned from nearby farms as well. At RTB, we use a synthetics-free farming philosophy, rooted in regenerative relationships and a mix of biodynamic, permaculture, agroforestry, and soil remineralization practices. We emphasize sustainability, natural relationships, ecological vibrancy, and working in ways that mirror our mission of valuing diversity, modeling nature and redefining wealth.

Working alongside the Manifest Love farm team in a daily capacity – and in concert with our extended RTB team and volunteers – this position will be involved with and responsible for all aspects of growing & harvesting agricultural produce for our Manifest Love program. Duties include, but are not limited to the following: crop planning, seed sowing, greenhouse and nursery care, soil & field preparation, transplanting, weeding and cultivation, perennial and tree care, harvesting, seed saving, propagation, efficient management and direction for RTB team and volunteers, food storage, food processing and preparation (harvesting, washing, bagging) for distribution of Manifest Love food shares. Winter tasks may include, but are not limited to: unheated greenhouse management, crop planning, food processing, supporting education initiatives for the Manifest Love program, and various duties that support the multifaceted nature of our non-profit organization.

While not a primary focus, this position will at times (when needed) act as a liaison with the RTB educational team to support providing tours, demonstrations, direction, and educational contexts for our agricultural work to visiting students and the general public. To a great degree, the above work will be performed outdoors (directly in the fields); however, this position may also include participation in shared community cooking, post-harvest processing & preservation, monthly Open Farm Days, and occasional support of other farm projects as needed. This work will be physically demanding and challenging, but also grounding, nourishing and rewarding. We aim for a 40-hour per week commitment, however natural variations in seasonal workload and conditions will require openness and flexibility around work hours in the high season, and some days may run longer than others.

QUALIFICATIONS

As an organization that strives to value diversity in all that we do (it’s even part of our mission!), we take care and place extra value in continuing to diversify our team. Candidate preferences include the following:

• At least 3+ years of intensive agriculture or commercial farming experience (regenerative agriculture preferred)

• 2- 5 years of experience in crop management
• 2+ years of experience managing a team (teammates, volunteers, etc.)
• Familiarity with dry farming, soil health, mineralization, cover cropping and/or tractor operation all helpful
• Persevering work ethic and ability to work well under time constraints and to meet deadlines
• Focused attention to detail and quality, with strong organizational skills and a positive attitude
• Ability to communicate effectively (in a clear and concise manner) with our team and management, with the ability to accept direction and guidance and ask questions when unclear

• Ability to communicate effectively with volunteers and students of all ages
• Ability to work both independently and in groups of diverse people
• Commitment to working in the scope of RTB’s mission *preference may be given to those who have an active interest in environmental and social justice issues pertaining to both local and global food systems*

• Passionate about creating and sharing healthy, good food, and helping provide healthy food access and education, especially to marginalized communities

• Desire to respect and care for the health of soil, plants, animals and humans
• Personal maturity, mindful self-awareness, dependability, and flexibility
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions
• Ability to pass a Mandatory Criminal Record (C.O.R.I.) check
• Physical ability to lift and move 50+ lbs
• A valid driver’s license
• Ability to work on occasional nights and/or weekends

COMPENSATION

• This is a full-time, 40-hour per week salaried position, exempt from overtime. Annual salary range is $41,600- $52,000, depending on experience.

• Full-time benefits include worker’s compensation, 403(b) retirement plan, health & dental insurance, flexible spending account, life & disability insurance, paid vacation days (80 hours per year), paid wellness days (56 hours per year) and select paid holidays;
• Depending on availability, RTB may provide room & board and internet access. Housing includes a privateplace to sleep (in a tiny house) and a shared kitchen/dining/library space with laundry facilities available.(Please note: This job is not contingent upon living on the farm. Additional responsibilities to contribute to the community are required if a candidate decides to live on the farm.)
• RTB supports healing, self-care and celebrations in a variety of ways, which may include bi-annualmassages, use of RTB holistic medicinal practices (i.e. herbal tinctures and our BioMat), team birthday celebrations, and sporadic local beach excursions;
• Weekday team lunches crafted from delicious, vibrant, farm produce;

• Hands-on learning environment focused on all aspects of sustainable living;
• Buzzards Bay breezes and silky SouthCoast sunsets

HOW TO APPLY

Please complete the RTB Candidate Questionnaire (https://forms.gle/KAU37PxAMSYWrBteA) and send a letter of interest telling us about yourself and detailing your motivations and qualifications for this position, along with a detailed resume and two professional references. Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed/considered. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know Also, please feel free to note in your application which pronouns you use. Please send materials via email (preferred) to Heather (heather@roundthebendfarm.org) or via snail mail at:

Round the Bend Farm
92 Allens Neck Road
South Dartmouth, MA 02748
Attn: Heather Zine

*ROUND THE BEND FARM (RTB) IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER* RTB values a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBTQ+ folks, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. RTB is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.

Round the Bend Farm (RTB), a Center for Restorative Community, located in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, is a 115-acre working farm and educational non-profit. We are a living laboratory that cultivates, educates, and empowers people of all ages. We are devoted to the global paradigm shift toward hope and abundance by valuing diversity, modeling nature, and redefining wealth. RTB is seeking a passionate and motivated individual to join our team as a full-time Sous Chef. We are accepting applications until the end of day on Friday, November 1, 2024. Anticipated start date is mid-late December 2024 or early January 2025.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Our Sous Chef position requires a highly motivated and energetic individual; someone who is passionate about RTB’s mission, local food systems, and plant-based foods. This teammate will participate in the overall mission of RTB, working directly with our Executive Chef & Kitchen Director to keep RTB’s commercial kitchen running smoothly, efficiently and safely, with an emphasis on supporting day to day management of the commercial kitchen space, along with supporting events, educational initiatives, and our new Manifest Love Food Truck.

Tasks include (but are not limited to) assisting with harvesting, preparing, processing, organizing, and storing of various foods, supporting the Executive Chef & Kitchen Director in menu development and recipe preparations, and helping with the set-up and break-down duties for various events and our Manifest Love Food Truck. The Sous Chef is expected to be a team player, yet able to work independently at times; this teammate needs to be extremely flexible in nature and able to keep kitchen work happening at an efficient pace, with an emphasis on tidiness and helping to maintain clean, safe spaces throughout.

QUALIFICATIONS

As an organization that strives to value diversity in all that we do (it’s even part of our mission!), we take care and place extra value in continuing to diversify our team. Candidate preferences include the following:

• At least 18 years of age with a MA (or other state) driver’s license;
• At least one year of experience in kitchen-related work environment; Cooking experience preferably in a medium to high volume environment (requires a certain pace) and willingness to share and learn new skills (BS degree in Culinary Science or related certificate is a plus)
• Physical ability to lift and move 50 lbs.

• Knowledge of & ability to conform to food service sanitations practices
• ServSafe Manager Certification, Allergen Awareness Training, First Aid/CPR/AED (or comparable food handlers permit to fulfill state regulations & requirements) *may obtain certifications after hiring

• Proficiency in the use of certain kitchen tools and cooking/processing equipment (i.e. Robot coupe, convection ovens, Vitamix, Excalibur dehydrator, etc…) and ability to use equipment properly and safely (training may be provided as needed)

• Persevering work ethic and ability to work well under time constraints and be able to meet deadlines
• Focused attention to detail and quality, with strong organizational skills and a positive attitude
• Ability to communicate effectively (in a clear and concise manner) with our team and management, with the ability to accept direction and guidance and ask questions when unclear
• Strong level of comfort with basic math skills, specific to scaling recipes as needed
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and to work independently on repetitive tasks (i.e. slicing and prepping the harvest to be prepared/processed) for long periods of time

• Ability to work both independently and in groups of diverse people
• Commitment to working in the scope of RTB’s mission (preference may be given to those who have an active interest in environmental and social justice issues pertaining to both local and global food systems)

• Passionate about creating and sharing healthy good food and helping provide healthy food access and education especially to marginalized communities

• Desire to respect and care for the health of soil, plants, animals and humans
• Personal maturity, mindful self-awareness, dependability, and flexibility

COMPENSATION

• Full-time annual wages are $37,440.00 (for 40 hours per week). Full-time benefits include worker’s compensation, 403(b) retirement plan, health & dental insurance, flexible spending account, life &disability insurance, paid vacation days (80 hours per year), paid wellness days (56 hours per year) and select paid holidays;

• RTB may provide room & board and internet access. Housing may include a private place to sleep (in atiny house) and a shared kitchen/dining/library space with laundry facilities available. (Please note: Thisjob is not contingent upon living on the farm. Additional responsibilities to contribute to the community are required if a candidate decides to live on the farm.)

• RTB supports healing, self-care and celebrations in a variety of ways, which may include bi-annual massages, use of RTB holistic medicinal practices (i.e. herbal tinctures and our BioMat), team birthday celebrations and sporadic local beach excursions;

• Weekday team lunches crafted from delicious, vibrant, farm produce;
• Hands-on learning environment focused on all aspects of sustainable living;
• Buzzards Bay breezes and silky SouthCoast sunsets

HOW TO APPLY

Please complete the RTB Candidate Questionnaire (https://forms.gle/eDsbtGmh2UyJhbwz9) and send a letter of interest telling us about yourself and detailing your motivations and qualifications for this position, along with a detailed resume and two professional references. Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed/considered. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. Also, please feel free to note in your application which pronouns you use. Please send materials via email (preferred) to heather@roundthebendfarm.org or via snail mail at:

Round the Bend Farm
92 Allens Neck Road
South Dartmouth, MA 02748
Attn: Heather Zine

*ROUND THE BEND FARM (RTB) IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER* RTB values a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBTQ+ folks, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. RTB is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.

LEAD CHEESE MAKER

Help shape the future of a sustainable dairy farm and creamery!

Cricket Creek Farm is seeking an experienced cheese maker to manage our creamery in all aspects of production of our artisanal, farmstead cheeses. Our portfolio includes pasteurized and raw cow’s milk cheeses of several styles and is distributed throughout the Northeast.

Located in the beautiful Berkshire foothills of Western Massachusetts, our farm milks 25-30 grass-fed cows year-round. Our mixed herd (primarily Jersey and Brown Swiss) is rotationally grazed on 200 acres of pasture during the summer, and fed local hay in the winter. We also raise grass-fed beef cattle, whey-fed pigs, and rose veal. The health and welfare of our animals, as well as of the land, are of primary importance to us.

Our work environment is designed to encourage clear, honest, open and productive communication, and to ensure a comfortable atmosphere for all employees and visitors.

This is a high level leadership position at our farm — we are looking for someone who can take full ownership of this important component of our farm business and effectively partner with other members of farm leadership. You are the eyes and the ears on the ground in our creamery, making sure that food safety protocols are being followed, high quality cheese is being produced, staff are working efficiently, and maintenance issues are being addressed. Looking to jump into a role with room for creativity and big impact on a small farm? Then this might be the role for you!

Responsibilities:

• Work with existing staff in a collaborative team environment, providing leadership and structure in the creamery
• Lead the production of all the cheeses in our current repertoire
• Train new employees in assisting with cheese makes and caring for and processing the cheese
• Follow and direct others in following maintenance and sanitation protocols.
• Troubleshoot inconsistencies with the products as needed.
• Maintain all required records, inventories, recipes and data.
• Effectively prioritize work to ensure cheese management and sanitation responsibilities are completed within their designated schedule.
• Maintain equipment and facilities; troubleshoot, and escalate issues.
• Bring an upbeat and positive attitude, and cultivate that attitude in others. We expect the person in this role to always show up, set a good example, help keep staff on track, and bring positive energy and enthusiasm to work every day.

Requirements:

• At least 2 years of professional cheese making experience, and a love for the science and craft of cheesemaking. Apprenticeship work
• Some management experience.
• Mechanical and problem solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail in regard to safety, sanitation, record keeping, and monitoring of quality.
• HACCP/ Food Safety Plan, or GMP knowledge preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to food safety and sanitation.
• Ability to remain calm and flexible in a fast-paced and evolving work environment.

Compensation: We provide a salary (commensurate with experience), housing, and some farm-raised food.

Note: Local applicants interested in making cheese with us part time are encouraged to apply or connect with Anna at the email listed below to discuss.

How to apply: Please send a current resume and cover letter to Anna Halpin-Healy, our Senior Farm Manager for Business Operations at anna@cricketcreekfarm.com. First round interviews are conducted by phone/zoom; second round interviews are in person at our farm and creamery.

Cricket Creek Farm is looking to hire a part-time or full-time milker to join our team!

Cricket Creek Farm is a small, grass-based cow dairy nestled in the Berkshire hills of Williamstown, MA. We produce raw milk, grass-fed beef, rose veal, and whey-fed pork, in addition to our farmstead cheeses. We milk once a day and are currently milking about 26 cows. We care for 80-100 animals in total. Our dairy herd consists of pure Brown Swiss and Jersey cows as well as a variety of crosses as we have been breeding with Normande and New Zealand Fresian genetics. The beef herd is also mixed with some pure Hereford and Belted Galloway crosses.

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in working with animals, supporting local agriculture, and reliable work with room for growth. While this role require quite a bit of independence, you will be joining a fun, small team of people passionate about food and farming.

Experience milking or working with farm animals is preferred, but we would be willing to train candidates who demonstrate a high level of competency. Full-time work can be considered for applicants with broader farm work experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Bring cows in for and take them back out to pasture after milking
• Milking
• Cleaning milking parlor
• Feeding and bedding calves
• Feeding and bedding pigs

If interested in additional work, other farm work that is typically done by milkers is available:

• Cleaning dairy barn with skid steer and bedding dairy cows
• Other bedding and feeding tasks
• Assorted basic maintenance and cleaning
• Filling milk bottles for our farm store.

COMPENSATION
Compensation range starts at $15 per hour and is based on relevant experience. Staff also receive a 20% discount on our pasture raised beef and rose veal, and our whey-fed pork, as well as all products in our farm store. Staff have complimentary access to a “seconds” section of the meat freezer, where meat with broken vacuum seals or freezer burn is stored, as well as access to ordering groceries at cost. These additional food benefits can add up to savings equivalent to a $1-2/hr increase in pay.

REQUIREMENTS

• Be able to lift 50 lbs
• Follow instructions extremely well
• Have strong communication skills
• Feel comfortable around large animals
• Pay excellent attention to detail. As a small team, it’s incredibly important for everyone to do a thorough job and constantly look for ways to improve efficiency or thoroughness. An appreciation for the importance of food safety and the milker’s role in ensuring the quality and safety of our milk and fostering the health of our cows are critical in this role.
• Weekend availability may be required
• Ability to work independently

TO APPLY
To apply, please email our Senior Farm Manager for Business Operations Anna Halpin-Healy at anna@cricketcreekfarm.com with a resume and brief description of why you are interested in the position.