Company description

We are a conventional grower located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. We grow approximately 60 acres of mixed vegetables each season. Our primary market is retail. In addition, we sell wholesale and continually seek ways to expand our markets. This season, we are expanding our pick-your-own strawberry operation. We strive to reduce food loss on our farm by working with organizations to end hunger in Maine.

Job description

Jordan’s Farm is seeking an individual to join our team as a Farm Hand for the 2025 season.

The Farm Hand position is a full-time seasonal position running from April until the end of October. While equipment operation experience is a plus, this is an entry level position, and we are willing to train the right candidate to carry out the responsibilities listed. Typical hours for this position are Tuesday through Saturday, 7am until 5pm. This employee should be flexible as hours and days may vary depending on the season, weather, and to accommodate large harvests. Strawberry season may necessitate a shift in schedule.

The ideal candidate for this position takes direction, asks for help and is comfortable giving and accepting feedback. This employee should have a willingness to learn and work within our existing systems. The Farm Hand works directly with the Phil (Lead Farmer) and is responsible for a wide variety of tasks such as cultivating, running irrigation, pest scouting, planting, as well as assisting in various mechanical, construction, woodworking, and property maintenance projects. The ideal candidate is organized, good at taking direction, and comfortable working alone. The Farm Hand should be able to identify problems in the fields and on the property such as: concerning sounds or dripping on tractors and equipment, pest or deer presence in the fields, high weed pressure, or unusual crop growing patterns. They will also assist in large harvest events, such as: daily strawberry and sweet corn harvests, bulk harvests of squash and other storage crops, and mechanical harvests of carrots and root vegetables. On occasion, this employee might join the field crew to assist in large harvests or work with the wash/pack crew on busy processing days.

Responsibilities:
- Understand and adhere to all GAP/FSMA guidelines and SOPs outlined in our Food Safety Plan
- Work with the Lead Farmer to identify which cultivation technique, equipment, and timing to use dependent on size/type of crop, size of weeds, and field conditions
- Assist with set up and management of irrigation equipment: identify and correct problems with irrigation and learn to identify appropriate reels and nozzles
- Plant crops according to SOPs to ensure proper germination and easy cultivation
- Seed in plug trays by hand and/or with a vacuum seeder
- Harvest a variety of crops in accordance with SOPs and quality standards
- Operate and assist in the maintenance of farm equipment, trucks, tractors and other equipment
- Property maintenance such as mowing, weed whacking and pruning
- Assist with framing and building projects on occasion
- Keep accurate records of planting and cultivation

Qualifications:
- Experience working outdoors in the summer (experience working in agriculture is a plus!)
- A strong interest in agriculture and working with your hands
- Team-oriented and strong communication and collaboration skills
- Attention to detail balanced with timeliness and efficiency
- Ability to regularly lift loads of 50 lbs. and work under challenging ergonomic conditions, including standing or sitting for long periods of time, crouching, bending and kneeling
- Willingness to work outside in the elements and in cold or hot conditions as necessary
- Positive attitude and adaptability even when carrying out repetitive or physically challenging tasks, or when working in difficult weather conditions
- Valid driver’s license to operate farms trucks

Compensation & Benefits:
- $18.00 - $20.00 depending on experience
- PTO is accrued at 1 hour per 40 hours worked
- Option to join MERIT IRA
- 30% discount in our farm stand (with exception of meat, alcohol and consignment)
- Access to free seconds quality produce

Compensation

this position is: hourly, varies DOE, $18.00 - $20.00

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline