Livestock Caretaker & Farm Hand

Job Summary:

Our company is looking for a qualified Farm Hand to work as part of our team in regards to all duties at our mixed livestock farm. We are hiring someone join a small crew of people accomplishing all tasks of animal care between two separate farm properties roughly 3 miles apart in Central Massachusetts. The individual will work with everything from daily feeding and watering to building and maintaining animal enclosures and fence lines, handling animals and coordinating pasture movements, cleaning barns and animal pens, and much more.

Our Farm Hand staff also participates in regular property maintenance such as staking our parking lot, landscaping, snow removal in season, small repairs of sheds and buildings, etc.

This role is full time at 40 hours or more for a candidate qualified and interested in 50+ hours weekly. Length of shifts and number of days will be flexible when coordinated with chores crew but required at least one weekend day.

Our animal species range from individual or breeding pair animals (peacocks, ostriches, camel) to small herd groups (donkeys, alpacas, goats) to large herd/flock animals (100+ head beef cattle, sheep, laying hens, broiler chickens, and seasonal hogs). The workday includes a healthy mix of hand labor style jobs as well as equipment work feeding and cleaning.

Team players interested in making the most out of every situation are encouraged to apply. We strive for a positive work environment for all. We are looking for those that appreciate the hard and sometimes monotonous work that takes place on farms and desire candidates who work to be an effective team member. We are a true working farm with many challenges, and team members with a positive attitude is a must.

Those with an eye for detail who can recognize tasks that need to get done, and following through with problem solving are encouraged to apply. We have dozens of projects in the pipeline at any given time, and being able to responsibly follow a task list is necessary.

Qualifications:

• Our staff are on their feet for the duration of their shift in all elements, and are expected to be able to lift 70+ pounds with ease. Appropriate workwear is mandatory for safety and comfortability while working.
• Attention to detail is crucial. One of our farm properties is open to the public, and requires diligent attention to detail to ensure we are putting our best foot forward for their enjoyment and in educating the public on agriculture.
• Basic handyman/carpentry skills to perform small upkeep projects.
• Ability or willingness to learn how to operate farm equipment and machinery, including tractors, a skid steer, silo unloader, and truck and trailer.
• A background in agriculture and/or farm experience is desired.
• A driver's license and vehicle available to drive between properties to execute tasks at both is necessary. Mileage is provided for times when personal vehicle is needed for work use.

Expected Hours:

• 7:00a - 5:00p (flexible start/end times).
• Typical Work Week Monday-Friday plus one weekend day.
• Note: Hours and work days may vary depending on the season.

Compensation:

• $16-$20/hour to start based on previous experience and skillset. 90 day review provided to adjust hourly rate where appropriate.
• Paid sick time in accordance with MA law of accumulating hours
• Paid vacation time after 6 months of employment
• Bonus pay for exemplary performance during longer shifts and holidays worked
• Paid Bereavement leave
• 25% employee discount on all items both online and at our farm stand
• Free surplus item bin

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30 – 60 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus opportunities

Ability to Relocate:

• Jefferson, MA 01522: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person