Assistant Farm Manager

The Hotchkiss School - Salisbury, CT

Full-time - Entry Level

Salisbury, CT

Educational Services

About the position

The Assistant Farm Manager at Fairfield Farm is responsible for supporting the production, harvesting, and delivery of a variety of crops and livestock care on a 287-acre educational farm. This role involves hands-on farming activities, equipment operation, and collaboration with students and staff to promote sustainable agricultural practices. The position requires flexibility in working hours, particularly during the farming season, and a commitment to fostering an educational environment for students.

Responsibilities

• Hand plant, weed, cultivate with equipment, manage sustainable pest control, and harvest crops including mixed vegetables and orchard fruit.
• Operate tractors and other farm equipment.
• Assist in the care of livestock, specifically around 100 laying hens.
• Manage summer interns and volunteer groups at the farm.
• Track harvest and donation numbers.
• Deliver produce to dining and community partners using school vehicles.
• Assist with carpentry, land management, and fence line maintenance as needed.

Requirements

• High School Diploma required.
• Experience in a production farming setting preferred.
• Skills in carpentry and irrigation installation and maintenance are preferred.
• Experience in livestock husbandry is a plus.
• Experience operating farm equipment is necessary.
• Basic carpentry skills and proficiency with power tools are required.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with farm staff and visitors.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Self-starter with initiative to share ideas with co-workers.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing conditions and schedules.
• Valid Driver's license.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of organic and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Experience managing volunteers or interns.

Benefits

• Full-time position with a structured schedule during the farming season.
• Opportunity to work in an educational environment with students.
• Engagement in sustainable farming practices.