Chestnut Hill Farm hiring Apprentices

Chestnut Hill Farm, in Southborough, Massachusetts and a property of the Trustees of Reservations, is seeking Assistant Growers for the 2015 growing season. We are looking for responsible, hard-working and enthusiastic people with whom to share the challenges and rewards of growing healthy food and a sustainable community while we learn from one another.

Who We Are:
Chestnut Hill Farm is a brand new production farm, on a beautiful gem-of-a-property outside of Framingham, MA.  We will be breaking new ground, building systems from the ground up to create a new community farm with an active CSA.  Under the leadership of a dynamic and experienced grower, this season will provide a unique learning experience for apprentices, as you will be able to be a part growing a new farm from operation from the beginning!

We are seeking people who are excited about sustainable farming and eager to take on the wide-range of responsibilities associated with running a physically demanding, fast-paced, public and busy production farm. This includes: assisting with all aspects of crop production, greenhouse work, field preparations and tillage, hand and tractor cultivation, harvest and distribution and working with groups and volunteers. You may also be expected to participate in and help facilitate small and large farm events throughout the season.

Who You Are:
Ideally you are responsible, flexible and personable, have at least one season of experience working on a production farm, (or are familiar with physically demanding work) and can be happy working as an integral part of a small farm crew. We are looking for people who can take on the physically demanding schedule, tasks, pace and inevitable challenges of the farm season with consistency and good humor. We need people who are ready each day to learn, take and give direction, be patient with themselves and others and are excited about working intensely with all types of people. You must have the ability and interest to work long hours outside in any type of weather – wind, rain, heat, cold. We ask that you can comfortably and safely lift and carry 40 lbs. and have a valid driver’s license.

Compensation:
This is a roughly 30-week position starting between April 1 and May 1, 2015. Hours range from 40-55/week throughout the season and compensation starts at $10/hour, access to lots of farm veggies, a small educational stipend, and optional participation in Eastern Mass CRAFT workshops. There is housing available to rent on farm for apprentices.

If you think you may be a good fit for an apprentice at Chestnut Hill Farm, please send your resume and cover letter to Desiree Robertson-Duboisfarmerdes@gmail.com