Seasonal Grounds Maintenance Assistant

The Trustees of Reservations•Ipswich, MA

8h•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Trustees seeks to strengthen local communities, demonstrate the viability of sustainable, grass-based livestock practices, increase public demand for local, sustainably produced food, and increase support for the conservation of agricultural land. The Trustees expects Appleton Farms to be a model for publicly accessible, sustainable, grass-based livestock operations. As a Grounds Maintenance Assistant, you will help oversee the caretaking of multiple species, including grass-fed cattle, pigs, pastured chicken and barnyard education animals. Central to this role is careful animal and land maintenance. This role will also assist with upkeep of the general appearance, functionality and cleanliness of the farm and farm equipment. The Agricultural team interacts directly with the public on a regular basis, through communication with CSA and Trustees Members, community partners and educational program participants. Every member of the farm team plays a critical role in fulfilling The Trustees’ conservation, environmental and agricultural goals and priorities for the farm. This is a limited-term nonexempt position reporting directly to the Assistant Livestock Manager.

Requirements

1 – 5 years of related work experience
Experienced with hand and power tools
Basic experience with daily upkeep and maintenance of farm vehicles, as well as a comfort with or willingness to learn how to operate farm equipment such as tractors.
Ability to carry out physically demanding duties: walk long distances on uneven terrain, pound posts, move/lift heavy items, work in all weather conditions
Comfort working in proximity with a variety of farm animals
Must be able to work with minimal supervision and be willing to learn new skills.
Must be neat and have an eye for detail
Basic knowledge of and commitment to sustainable farming principles
Interest in working for a mission-driven organization focused on achieving conservation and agricultural impacts at the local, state, and regional level
Must be able to lift a maximum of 75 pounds
Must be able to push and pull a maximum of 150 pounds
Applicant must be willing and able to accomplish tasks in variable outdoor weather conditions throughout all seasons
Ability to navigate uneven outdoor and hilly terrain for long periods of time
Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment.
A valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record as outlined in The Trustees’ driving policy.
This position will be driving vehicles under 10k lbs.
A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

Nice To Haves

Experience maintaining electric fencing systems preferred but not required
An associate’s degree or vocational/technical school in Agriculture, Landscaping or Related fields.

Responsibilities

Maintenance and upkeep of all pasture lands including clearing of fence lines, removal of downed tree material, and strategic mowing and/or weed-whacking of livestock areas.
Maintaining grazing infrastructure, including pastures, water systems, travel lanes, wooden fencing and electric fencing
Assist with the seasonal haying process in order to produce year-round feed for livestock
Basic grounds maintenance for highest quality guest appearance and ease of operation for livestock areas
Help manage, clean and maintain livestock buildings, equipment, and facilities, including public facing educational areas
Center thoughtful, calm and respectful animal handling at all times
Maintain awareness of and concern for the visual presentation of Appleton Farms

Benefits

Sick Time: 40 hours of paid sick time upfront.
Reciprocity: Employees have access to free and discounted admission and membership to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions.
Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.

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