Farm and Woodlot Manager (7274)

Chewonki is seeking a dedicated and collaborative Farm and Woodlot Manager to oversee our dynamic farm and woodlot operations. From managing pastures, livestock, and gardens to sustainable forestry and engaging educational programs, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

As the leader of a skilled farm crew, you’ll foster growth, sustainability, and community connection while serving as a vital bridge between the farm and Chewonki’s greater educational mission.

Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person, Residential)

This is a residential position, housing included.

Reports to: President

Schedule: Full Time (including some weekends and evenings; residential position)

Salary: $58,656

Important Dates:

Deadline to Apply: January 24, 2025 11:59pm

December 30, 2024 calls of interest start and continue until the application deadline.

Week of January 27, 2025: First Round Interviews

Organization and Position Summary

Chewonki is a nature-based education center in Midcoast Maine. The farm at Chewonki consists of 25 acres of pasture and one acre of cultivated vegetable gardens. The woodlot is approximately 150 acres. The Farm Manager is responsible for the overall farm and woodlot operation at Chewonki, including overseeing garden and pasture management, animal husbandry, and sustainable forestry operations.

KEY DUTIES:

Leadership & Supervision

Schedule, manage, and supervise the farm team, conducting performance reviews and providing constructive feedback.

Hire, train, and onboard farm staff in collaboration with Human Resources.

Education & Community Engagement

Oversee and participate in educational interactions with Chewonki programs, teaching about food systems, farming skills, and farm history.

Facilitate student work programs, farm chores, and farm-to-table cooking activities.

Collaborate with camp staff, Outdoor Classroom instructors, and educational programs to design and implement farm-related curriculum.

Administrative Responsibilities

Create and manage the farm’s annual budget, track expenses, and meet financial targets.

Maintain detailed records for gardens, pastures, livestock, and the woodlot.

Plan and oversee farm-related projects, ensuring maintenance and operational efficiency.

Garden & Pasture Management

Develop and implement garden plans, oversee planting, harvesting, composting, and soil health.

Coordinate livestock care, health, reproduction, and pasture maintenance, including rotational grazing, hay procurement, and manure spreading.

Woodlot Management

Implement a Forestry Management Plan for sustainable woodlot operations.

Oversee stand improvement, low-impact forestry practices, and wood-related work.

Interdepartmental Collaboration

Work closely with the kitchen and food services team to coordinate garden planning, harvesting, and food systems projects.

Participate in committees, including the Food Action Committee, Manager’s meetings, and Risk Management.

General Farm Responsibilities

Maintain buildings, tools, and equipment in collaboration with the Facilities Department.

Respond to weather-related needs and emergencies, ensuring farm safety and operations.

Must pass a Criminal Background Check including Motor Vehicle Record.

Valid Driver’s License approved by Chewonki’s insurance carrier.

At least 3-5 years of farm managing experience on a diversified farm.

3+ years of supervisory experience.

Experience working with youth in an educational setting.

Experience with organic food production.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Knowledge of and skill related to animal husbandry, preferably including cattle, sheep, pigs, turkeys, and/or chickens.

Knowledge of and skills related to sustainable forestry principles and practices.

Knowledge of organic mixed vegetable production and soil health.

Strong organizational and time management skills.

Ability to problem solve and make difficult decisions.

Ability to communicate well verbally and in writing.

Ability to live and work in a small community.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to operate a tractor and chainsaw.

Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.

Ability to do routine repairs on equipment, fences, and buildings.

Must be able to work in an active, outdoor environment in all weather conditions.

Housing, meals, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, 403B retirement plan, and access to professional development funds.