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About The Organization:
The Trustees is an organization with a fascinating past and an exciting future. Our places are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in what we do. Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, we preserve, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. We have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 25,000+ acres on more than 100 reservations that are all open to the public. We are a nonprofit conservation organization funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and more than 75,000 members.
The Trustees operate five production farms with over 1,500 CSA members, 4 farm stores and a Mobile Market program. We raise 100% grass-fed and pastured livestock and grow certified organic mixed vegetables, flowers and herbs. In addition to these public farms, The Trustees owns over 3,500 acres in farmland across the state of Massachusetts which we lease to other producers. The Trustees is focused on modeling regenerative agricultural practices for profitable agroecosystems that are diverse, resilient and productive. Trustees Farm properties are open to the public.
Appleton Farms is one of the oldest continually operating farms in the country. We grow vegetables using organic practices on 35 acres for a 650-member summer CSA and 200-member winter CSA. We are a team-oriented farm focused on soil health, efficient systems, and high-quality production. The property totals 1000 acres and features a grass-fed beef operation, education and public programs, and beautiful grassland and forest trails.
Job Description
The Farm Crew position is a seasonal position with a variable work schedule. This individual works in aspects of organic vegetable production for summer and winter CSAs and wholesale accounts. These responsibilities include greenhouse and high tunnel production, field operations, vegetable harvest, and wash and pack. The Farm Crew is trained in farm systems and has an opportunity to learn organic and regenerative practices for vegetable production. There are full-time and part-time positions.
Responsibilities:
Work directly with the farm manager, assistant manager, and other Farm Crew.
Implement the crop plan and aspects of production: greenhouse and high tunnel work, field transplanting, weed control, harvest, CSA distribution, and general farm maintenance projects. Please note that the CSA Farm Crew does not work in livestock operations.
Learn farm systems and strive for efficiency.
There is an opportunity to take on additional responsibility over the season, such as leading harvests or managing a production arena.
Interested crew members may have an opportunity to be trained in the safe operation and maintenance of one of our tractors and its implements.
Farming experience is not required. Applicants with farm experience must be open-minded and interested in relearning skills to fit our systems.
Work Schedule:
Full-time:
March/April to October. Part-time November/December work possible.
Weekly hours vary from 30 hours/week in spring to 55 hours per week in the summer. Regular hours from June through September are Monday - Friday, 7am to 5pm. There is a one hour paid lunch.
Occasional weekend hours available during the summer
Five days unpaid vacation time
Part-time:
June through August/September
Schedule is somewhat flexible, working 25-30 hours/week. Must be able to start at 7am at least two mornings/week.
Two days unpaid vacation time
Compensation:
These positions are seasonal, pay hourly (Comp based on experience $16.50-$18/hour), qualify for overtime pay and provides seasonal health benefits to Full Time positions lasing 5 months or more.
Limited housing at Greenwood Farm in Ipswich is available for Seasonal Farm Crew positions during the duration of your seasonal employment on the agriculture team for a small rental fee.
Seasonal Farm Crew staff have access to vegetables for individual use, access to planning documents and records, farmer's library, farm safety training, tractor operation and maintenance, option to participate in Eastern Mass CRAFT program, and assistance in future agricultural endeavors. Free admission to Trustees of Reservations properties throughout the season.
Please include a resume and a letter outlining your interest in the position.
Qualifications:
Passionate and motivated to work on a production-oriented farm. Eager to learn and receive constructive feedback
Work well in a team-oriented environment and possess strong communication skills
Detail oriented, punctual, and organized
Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs, and crouch or bend for long periods of time
Must be able to work in all types of weather
Valid driver's license and clean driving record
Must be able to accommodate seasonal work schedule
