Farm Landscape Steward

Charlotte VT

Description

Job Opening: Farm Landscape Steward Job Title: Farm Landscape Steward Type: May – November, non-exempt, hourly Location: Philo Ridge Farm, Charlotte, Vermont Our Culture Philo Ridge Farm is a certified organic 400-acre farm located just south of Burlington, Vermont. We are a diversified farm in our fourth year of production, grazing 200 of our 400 acres, and growing two acres of organic produce and perennial fruits alongside two year round greenhouses. Our livestock program includes 85 head of heritage Belted Galloway cattle, 36 breeding ewes and over 80 lambs, 300 laying hens, and 4,500 pastured chickens per year. Our farming practices build soil health, produce a variety of nutrient-rich foods, reduce the use of fossil fuels, and support the local agricultural community. We produce our own organic compost and hay on the farm, and evaluate changes in soil health, crop and pasture productivity, water quality, carbon sequestration, and wildlife in partnership with the University of Vermont. Position Overview With guidance from the Land and Livestock Manager, the Farm Landscape Steward will be responsible for assisting with the general upkeep of the farm landscape. The steward will execute multiple landscape tasks such as mowing, weed whipping, mulching, weeding, wood splitting, tree and garden watering, trail maintenance, general property clean-ups, and tractor work. The steward will also work with the livestock team and assist with managing a growing herd of Belted Galloway cattle which are moved daily, both meat and layer poultry production, rotationally grazed pigs, and sheep. On occasion, the steward will help with hay production. Primary Responsibilities The primary responsibilities are outlined below: o Mowing and weed whipping around the farm complex o Landscaping work which includes but is not limited to mulching, weeding, raking, maintain garden beds o Use of the skid steer and tractor bucket to move landscape material around the farm, brush mowing, trail maintenance o Splitting and stacking wood for the Commons Barn usage o General building maintenance and repair, including carpentry, painting, cleaning, and organization of facilities and facility spaces. o Other tasks as necessary to support livestock and land management business operations. Candidate/ Position Qualifications • Experience with a ride on mower, weed whips, chain saw and all power tools associated with landscape care and management. • Skill driving a tractor and skid steer • Landscaping or gardening experience a plus • Consistent punctuality in attendance and is able to work weekends and weekdays, and early mornings. • Physical and environmental requirements: continuous standing and occasionally carrying heavy loads; environmental exposure to cold, heat and water. • Preferred experience in the handling and routine maintenance of various types of farm equipment. • Minimum of two professional references. Time Commitment We ask for a commitment of 40 hrs/week and occasionally more as is seasonally appropriate. This position starts in April through late Fall and potentially later depending on the candidate (with flexibility). Compensation Compensation is dependent on qualified, verified experience. Benefits include paid time off, healthcare, food discounts through the market, daily staff lunch, continuing education opportunities and more. Housing may be available, please inquire. Application Process Candidates should send a cover letter detailing experience, resume, contact information, and reference contact information to [email protected]. Qualified candidates will be contacted directly. No phone calls please.