Immediate opening for beginning Farm Manager 2019
Willow Brook Farm & Arts Center in Barnstead, NH is seeking a FarmManager to continue development of a modest 25-40 share CSA.This is an exceptional opportunity for a beginning farmer with an interest in sustainability, and community resilience, as to be the right candidate can become a key player in the development of a sustainable and regenerative farm and community center.
With guidance from the Executive Director, the Farm Manager’s primary responsibility will be to manage organic vegetable production on a 2-acre intensive organic/permaculture farmstead. The Farm Manager’s compensationwill includerent-free housing in our newly renovated farmhouse.
While the Farm Manager will be a seasonal position from mid-March through October we anticipate having ongoing opportunities for year-round residence and work on the farm with longer-term potential. Other growth opportunities will be available for the right and may include use of farm structures, equipment, tools and grounds as a launchpad for your own farm business.
WBF&AC is a non-profit, permaculture homestead. There are abundant opportunities to learn theory and skills related to permaculture, organic growing, business development, construction, timber framing, forest management, sawmilling, maple sugaring, bee keeping, orcharding, and Christmas tree production. We are in the early stages of developing a PYO fruit and berry operation with plans to build a farm standin 2019.
Position Description/Responsibilities
The Farm Manager will report directly to the Executive Director and will lead all aspects of farm operations including crop production, CSA share selling and distribution and managing our stall at Farmers’ Markets. Additional responsibilitieswill include greenhouse work, planting and harvesting, weeding and field preparation. The Farm Manager will also manage volunteers, interns and assistants as applicable.The Farm Manager will receive guidance and mentorship from the Executive Director and Board of Directors.
Qualifications:
We seekmotivated and responsiblecandidates who have:
- A demonstrated interest in organic farming, permaculture, local food production, community resilience sustainability;
- Strong communication skills (both oral and written)
- Desire and ability to learn and hone new skills,
- Proven ability to work independently with limited supervision
- The strength and disposition for physically demanding work which requires the ability to lift, bend, squat, kneel, bend, etc., and do so in all weather conditions.
- A valid driver’s license, clean driving record,and a reliable vehicle (all of which are required.)
- References who can attest to the candidate’s qualifications
Hours, Salary & Benefits
The Farm Manager position will begininmid-March and continue though October. Pay rate is commensurate with experience. Produce from the farm and farmhouse rent are included with the position. Other income opportunities and bonuses exist.
The Farm Manager is expected to work a minimum of 40 hours per week and longer hours during peak periods as necessary.
Organization
Willow Brook Farm & Art Center has a mission to support beginning farmers. The Farm property comprises 76 acres of fields, trails, streams and ample wood resource. Third Stone Farm, a 24-acre adjoining property serves as a collaborative partner providing tools, equipment, expertise and additional land. Between these two farms, we have 100 acres that can sustain vegetable production, a goat dairy, poultry, an organic cut-your-own Christmas tree farm, a permaculture nursery, a managed mixed hardwood forest, a fledgling organic hops operation, maple sugaring, and honey bees. While not at commercial scale, we also have apples, pears, and raspberries growing on the property. The Willow Brook Farm property includes a large barn that can provide shelter for animals, space for a workshop and events, and can support crop production and storage.
The residence is a 5+ bedroom antique colonial farmhouse that has been completely rehabilitated, updated with new heat, insulation, a modern kitchen, windows, plumbing, and wireless internet. Farm Fellows have private bedrooms and may share living spaces and bathrooms.
We are located in Barnstead, NH, not far from lakes and mountains with easy access to ample outdoor activities. Concord is nearby and Portsmouth is one hour away. The community of Barnstead has its own farmers’ market.
To apply, contact tim@willowbrookfarmnh.org
