Farm Description

Flying Dog Farm is a certified organic, pasture based, livestock farm using regenerative practices to manage land and livestock since 2020. We raise beef cattle, pigs, and sheep from birth to slaughter, and sell direct to customers through Farmer’s Market and on farm Sales, as well as hosting some on farm events such as burger nights. We are based in Tunbridge VT, and also manage our livestock on a few other properties in the area through the grazing season, for a total of ~150 acres of pasture. We strive to produce the highest quality meat, holistically managed, calm and healthy animals, and healthy land and soils. This is a production farm, constrained by the farm economics, but we believe creativity, growth and learning are integral to a strong farm and business, and hope to encourage that in our team.

 

Job Summary

The Livestock Assistant will be involved in all aspects of livestock management, as well as assisting with maintenance of farm infrastructure (fencing, waterlines, equipment), mowing, bedded pack/compost management, and special projects. Daily tasks will revolve around animal chores and frequent pasture moves of all animal groups. Shona will work closely with you on training, planning, and tasks and projects that are better done together, but much of the daily work will be on your own.

 

Opportunity for growth, increased responsibility and involvement in more aspects of the farm depending on interest and skills.

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Responsibilities

• Daily animal chores and health checks

• Regular pasture moves of different livestock groups

• Driving farm vehicle between properties for above

• Maintenance of fence lines – including mowing, weedwhacking, chainsaw, and fixing fence

• Cleaning out bedded pack, compost management, and spreading with tractor

• Handling livestock for health checks, loading on trailer etc.

• Mowing and weed whacking around farmstead 

• Maintain Clean and organized barns, tools, and equipment

• Larger projects may include installation of waterlines, building mobile livestock shelters, clean out of old barn spaces. 

 

Qualifications

Required

• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

• Experience and comfort working around livestock

• Experience with basic hand and power tools

• Ability to lift 50lbs

• Attention to detail and ability to problem solve

• Ability to work independently and self-motivate

• Positive attitude, good sense of humor, and patience

• Ready to ask for help and clarification

• Ability to work outside in all (reasonable) weather

• Ability to work weekends

 

Preferred

• Tractor experience

• Equipment maintenance experience

• Experience with chainsaw and weed whack

• Interest in organic and rotational grazing practices

 

Hours

This is a full time (40hrs/wk) position from April through November, and part time December through March. Thursday through Monday work schedule.

 

Some flexibility in start date with Early/Mid-March preferred.

 

Compensation

$16-$18/hr depending on experience.

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How to Apply and Deadline

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until position is filled.

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Please email Shona (shona@theflyingdogfarm.com) with your resume, three references, and answers to the following questions:

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1.     Why are you interested in farm work and why at Flying Dog Farm?

2.     What makes you a strong candidate for the position?

3.     What relevant skills, experiences, and interests pertain to this job?

4.     Anything else you want to add

 

Fair Hiring Statement

Flying Dog Farm is an equal opportunity employer and values diverse representation in Vermont's farm community. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.