Company description

Oaklands Farm, situated in the Kennebec River Valley, has been in our family for over 250 years. We are dedicated to sustainable farming practices, raising and selling pasture-fed beef and lamb on certified-organic grasslands. Our commitment to animal welfare and land stewardship reflects our philosophy of maintaining ecological balance and nurturing our land for future generations. We produce an award-winning cow's milk cheese, Roxanne, and intend to launch several sheep's milk and mixed milk cheeses in 2025 made from the milk from our own herd. We are looking for someone energized by the opportunity to help us build this new line of products.

Internship description

Position Overview: Oaklands Farm is seeking a dedicated Seasonal Shepherd to join our team during the milking season between 1 May and 30 September. The primary responsibility will be managing sheep milking, along with various farm-related tasks to support daily operations. With the right candidate, we envision this position becoming permanent with commensurate salary and benefits.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sheep Milking: Manage the milking process, ensuring hygiene and comfort for the animals. This individual will be responsible for at least one of two daily milkings, including transporting milk to our offsite creamery, Monday through Friday.
• Animal Care: Monitor the health and well-being of sheep and other livestock, reporting any concerns promptly.
• Feeding and Watering: Provide feed and water to animals as per established schedules and procedures.
• Pasture Management: Oversee the rotation of livestock through pastures to promote healthy grazing and land sustainability.
• General Farm Maintenance: Perform tasks such as cleaning barns, clearing fence lines, maintaining equipment, and supporting hay production activities.
• Growth Opportunities: We are a small team. There are ample opportunities to get involved in our business beyond the day-to-day shepherding and farming, including: cheese production and affinage; marketing and sales; technology and operations. We are interested in candidates who bring a variety of skills and experiences and a desire for tangible outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Prior experience in animal husbandry or dairy operations is not mandatory, but welcomed. We will provide onsite training for those with less experience. We're interested in applicants who come in clear-eyed about the potential challenges and rewards of shepherding.
• Physical Fitness: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and working in various weather conditions.
• Work Ethic: Strong commitment to animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with farm staff and communicate effectively. Comfort with technology for project management is a plus.

Employment Details:

• Type: Seasonal position during the milking season between 1 May and 30 September 2025.
• Compensation: $20,000. Free room and board on the farm—including utilities & wifi—is provided.
• Schedule: Flexible hours, including early mornings and weekends as required. 

Join us at Oaklands Farm and contribute to a legacy of sustainable agriculture and responsible land stewardship.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $20/hr +

Work visa

This employer is willing to sponsor a work visa for international applicants

Application instructions

Deadline

January 31, 2025