Hiring: Farm Manager – Littleton Community Farm
Farm Manager
Littleton Community Farm (LCF) is a 3.2-acre diversified vegetable farm in Littleton, M.A. whose mission is to reduce food insecurity in our area, provide farm-based education, and be a place for community connection. We aim to inspire through hands-on exposure to agriculture and growing for our entire community. The farm offers a 75 household CSA and Pick Your Own Flowers operation.
We are seeking an individual who is passionate about local, sustainable agriculture and working in a community-oriented environment, and increasing equitable access to fresh, healthy food.
Job Description
Littleton Community Farm is looking for a committed candidate to fill the role of Farm Manager. Reporting to our Board of Directors and supervised by the Executive Director, this person will support and implement all day-to-day farming, food donation, land stewardship, and crew. These responsibilities include interfacing with the community, partners, and managing youth programs. We are looking for a candidate who can provide agricultural leadership to the Board of Directors, Executive Director, and field staff.
The ideal candidate will possess experience and knowledge of sustainable production, producing microgreens, CSA shares and flowers. Candidate should be experienced in managing and working with a small staff and volunteers, have a strong work ethic, and an aptitude for building rapport with the broader community.
The Farm Manager will also manage recipient partnerships and CSA distribution, and volunteer drop-in time.
Primary Responsibilities:
1. Manage and oversee all produce and production on the 3.2-acre farm, with strong attention to nutrient management and conservation goals, utilizing a variety of No-Till organic practices.
2. Demonstrated ability to follow a crop plan and budget in consultation with the Board of Directors, Executive Director.
3. Execute the production goals for 2023.
4. Manage a field crew of 3-5 returning staff and volunteers.
5. Maintain a system of record-keeping and management for development and tracking year- over-year growth, for which the Farm Manager will be responsible.
6. Implement and improve organic crop, long-term soil fertility, production, and pest management plans.
7. Safe operation of farm equipment including a small tractor.
Required qualification and experiences:
1. A minimum of three years of farm experience, including one year in a strong assistant grower role.
2. Candidates with knowledge of Jean-Martin Fortier No-till farming methods will be given extra consideration.
3. Knowledge of the principles of soil biology, no-till crop production, permaculture, food web, flowers, growing perennials, using cover crops, utilizing living mulches, composting, soil testing, and other ecological/organic growing methods.
4. A desire to produce food of the highest nutritional, culinary, and ecological quality.
5. Demonstrated record of high level of planning and organization.
6. Ability to work well with a variety of customers and community members.
7. Ability to drive a tractor and utilize farm equipment in a safe and effective manner.
8. Experience and ability working with people of all ages from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
9. Flexible and understands unique challenges of farming in community and commitment to meeting those challenges on a daily basis.
10. Excellent communication and collaboration skills including a proven track record of managing small teams.
12 Interest and familiarity with local food, food justice, and sustainable agriculture issues.
13 A willingness and ability to work outdoors in all types of weather, under potentially strenuous conditions.
Desired qualifications and experiences:
1. Experience with operating, maintaining basic repairs machinery and power equipment.
2. Building/construction experience.
3. Demonstrated experience in community outreach or engagement work.
4. One years’ experience supervising youth (aged 12-19) in youth organizing or youth development context.
5. Email communication (timely and proper etiquette), knowledge of, Microsoft Word, Excel, Google is a plus.
6. A detail-oriented approach, with considerable attention to order, cleanliness, and an ongoing commitment to improving systems and practices.
7. Ability to relate easily to high school-aged youth and to support their growth and development as leaders.
Other Requirements
1. Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
2. Cell phone and computer access.
3. Reliable transportation as our suburban farm is 1.9 miles from the Fitchburg – Boston Commuter rails.
4. Satisfactory CORI Check.
Time Requirements
This is a full-time seasonal job April – October with the possibility of extending to November
22nd. During the growing season, a typical workweek is approximately 45 – 50 hours/week; in the off-season, the work week is decreased. Weekends are required during the growing season. Must work 5 days a week which includes one Sundays or Saturday per week from April until the first week in October.
Salary and Benefits
This is a salaried position based on the market and the applicant’s skills and
experience. Paid Time Off with no more than five consecutive days between June 1st –
August 31st. A CSA share and flowers grown on the farm. The farm carries Workers Compensation for work-related injuries.
To apply, please send your resume and brief cover letter to admin@littletoncommunityfarm.org
LCF is an equal opportunity employer, and it is our firm belief that equal opportunity for all employees is central to the continuing success of our organization. We will not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, political affiliation, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, physical disabilities, or medical condition.
