Liberation Farms
Liberation Farms is a 104 acre property that hosts a variety of programs through the Somali Bantu Community Association, a non-profit organization that provides transitional services, advocacy and resources for food production to Somali refugees living in the Lewiston/Auburn area. The farm dedicates 3 acres to commercial growers who produce vegetables for sale to farmers markets and to various local partners, almost 20 acres to family farmers who grow vegetables for themselves and roughly 10 acres for meat goats. Although not certified organic, the farm uses organic, chemical free growing practices and in addition to cropland, there are hayfields, pasture for livestock, woodlot, and a children’s garden. The farm’s infrastructure includes a heated seedling greenhouse, 2 high tunnels, a large pavilion for events, 2 goat barns, a wash and pack station and several outbuildings. This is a community run farm and approximately 250 Somali farmers utilize the farm each season. There are currently 3 full time, year round staff.
Location
1002 Gardiner Road
Wales, Maine 04280
Hours and Work Season
32 hours a week, April – October.
Ideal weekly schedule is Tuesday-Friday, with a half day of chores on Saturday.
There is some flexibility in the weekly schedule for the season, but will need to be solidified and agreed upon in advance.
Payment Type
Hourly
Pay
$18-$20
Job Description
The Farm Assistant will support all of the programs at Liberation Farms, with an emphasis on commercial vegetable production, goat care and general property maintenance.
Tasks on the farm will change during the season, but the Farm Assistant can expect to participate in:
greenhouse seeding and potting up, supporting farmers during busy harvest mornings, mucking goat barns and moving fences, delivering produce to local partners, and lending a hand in the wash and pack station. Other tasks include, occasional set up/break down for events, supporting the youth program as needed, and weedwhack/mowing.
Ideal candidates have at least one season of experience working on a vegetable or livestock farm or in a physical, outdoor setting, are flexible, have strong communication skills and the ability to work independently. Some experience working or volunteering in a cross cultural setting, comfort with non English speakers and a desire to engage in cultural exchange are also essential qualities for the Farm Assistant.
Reliable transportation to Wales, a working cell phone and a driver’s license are required.
Working at Liberation Farms is a unique, challenging and rewarding opportunity to hone vegetable growing skills, gain experience in livestock management, connect with a diverse and underserved population, and gain exposure to food justice, land stewardship and social equity projects here in Maine.
Farmers who are fluent in Maay Maay or Somali are encouraged to apply.
See a full job description and learn more about the Somali Bantu Community Association on the organization website –Â https://somalibantumaine.org/
Benefits
- Paid sick days and vacation time.
- Access to vegetables grown in the staff plot and seconds.
What to Expect from Us
The Farm Assistant will be a member of the SBCA’s farm team and will work with the Farm Operations Manager, the Property and Livestock Manager and the Markets Manager.
Liberation Farms is an inclusive workplace and an equal opportunity employer. The Farm Assistant can expect clear communication about daily activities, a collaborative work environment and the opportunity to learn about plants, animals and people,
Application Details and Deadline
To apply, please email a resume, cover letter explaining why you would like to be the Farm Assistant at Liberation Farms this season and 2 references to Laura Neale, Farm Operations manager
[email protected]
Feel free to email with any questions prior to submitting an application.
Thank you!
Liberation Farms
- Physical Address
-
1002 Gardiner Road
Wales, Maine 04280
- Phone
- 415-309-6162
