Apprenticeship for 2016 Season

 Green Meadows Farm in South Hamilton, MA is accepting apprenticeship applicants for the 2016 season. We raise certified organic vegetables and small fruit and non-certified laying hens, pigs, and sheep on our diversified farm on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Our farm supplies food for a 400-member CSA, a retail farm stand, and a few wholesale accounts. We strongly believe that the only way to learn how to manage a successful farm is by doing it.

The apprenticeship is intended for candidates who are seriously considering a career in sustainable agriculture, and ideally, interested in someday operating a farm. Prior farming experience is preferred, but not required. Candidates must be physically fit, enjoy working hard in all kinds of weather, and enthusiastic about sustainable farming. A positive attitude, strong work ethic, sense of humor, and a valid driver's license are essential.

Over the course of the season, we aim to provide apprentices with the knowledge and skills needed to manage a diversified organic farm. In exchange, apprentices perform the day-to-day tasks that keep the farm running. Apprentices are engaged in every aspect of the farm's operation from the greenhouse to the wash stand. They drive tractors, seed, harvest, care for livestock, weed, wash, hoe, prep fields, and much more. In addition to on-farm training and instruction, apprentices have the opportunity to attend workshops, conferences, and farm tours.

Apprenticeship Description

• The apprenticeship is an intensive working and learning experience designed to provide motivated candidates with valuable farm management skills. All motivated applicants who are seriously considering a career in sustainable agriculture are welcome to apply.
• Apprentices will be involved in all aspects of the farm's day-to-day operation, and are expected to follow instructions and complete tasks in a timely manner. Apprentices report directly to the Grower and Farm Manager. Thorough training in tractor operation and basic maintenance are a part of the program, as well as instructions pertaining to all tasks to be completed over the course of the season.
• Educational material and training will be provided by the Grower and Farm Manager. The farm crew will have weekly meetings to go over the work to be done, tour the fields, assess crops, and prioritize tasks. Written material, as well as access to the farm library will be provided. In addition, Apprentices are encouraged to attend CRAFT meetings, workshops, and conferences throughout the season.
• Apprentices are welcome to discuss future farm plans with farm management, who will also provide guidance and support for those pursuing further opportunities in their farming career.

Responsibilities
Apprentices are expected to:

• Show up on time, ready to work,
• Bring a spirit of dedication and enthusiasm to the job,
• Follow instructions, complete all tasks to the best of their ability, and ask
• questions,
• Maintain a good attitude in the field,
• Be respectful toward coworkers, visitors, volunteers, customers, and
• shareholders,
• Come to work in proper work attire (rain gear, sturdy footwear, hats, gloves,
• etc.),
• Address concerns, issues, problems and questions to the Grower or Farm
• Manager,
• Take full advantage of the season-long farming experience! Make observations,
• ask questions, take notes, enjoy working outside in the sun, eat lots of fresh
• food, and sleep well.

Work Schedule

The apprentice season begins the first full week of April and continues
until the week before Thanksgiving. The daily schedule is Monday to Friday
7:00 am to 5:00 pm with a 1 hour lunch break, and a 15 minute morning break.
During the height of the season (June through September), apprentices will
also work Saturdays from 8 am – 12 pm. There are situations where apprentices
may occasionally be asked to work past 5:00pm, such as animals getting out of
fencing, or field work that has to be finished prior to a rainy period.
Apprentices will share farm chores on a rotating basis along with the
management. They will be working one weekend every three weeks to cover chores
and harvest if needed. Chores include, but are not limited to: feeding
livestock, collecting eggs, and watering the greenhouses. Managers will cover
chores when apprentices are attending CRAFT meetings or workshops.

Compensation

Apprentices are paid a weekly stipend that ranges from $450-$550/week
depending on experience. Apprentices also get a share of farm produce, farm-
subsidized health and dental insurance, and a 20% discount at our farm stand.
Housing is not provided, but we can help you find suitable housing in the
area.

Please email admin@gmfarm.com with your resume and cover letter if interested.
Thank you!