Tilth & Timber
Tilth & Timber is a small family farm located in Castine, ME. We produce about .75 acres of mixed vegetables on sloped coastal land along the mouth of the Bagaduce river. We host a free-choice CSA membership and farm store for our immediate community, as well as distribute to other local outlets and restaurants.
The farm is run by Troy and Cindy Dickens, with our two young children alongside. Our farm consists of a small market garden, two greenhouses, a seedling propagation house, and a barn that houses our farm store, washing station, and storage. We also produce eggs and broiler chickens on neighboring pastures. We practice ecologically mindful growing through minimal tillage, biodiversity, and a focus on soil health. Although not certified organic at this time, we are in the process of becoming certified and do not use any chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. We always purchase organic seeds, potting soil, feeds, and other inputs.
Location
165 Castine Road, Castine, ME, 04421
Hours and Work Season
Seasonal part-time employment begins May 1st through October 31st. Employees will be expected to work 20-30 hours per week, with possibly more hours available during the core summer months. Flexible scheduling is available for those with good communication skills and performance. Saturday availability is a must. There will be a four week probation period from date of hire.
Payment Type
Hourly
Pay
$16-20/ hr depending on experience and job performance
Job Description
This position is for a market garden farm hand who will be responsible for a wide range of tasks in the field as well as assisting customers in our on site farm store. While daily tasks are diverse, our small farm still maintains a fairly structured weekly rhythm.
Primary field responsibilities include (but not limited to):
– Field and bed preparation and maintenance
– Transplanting and seeding
– Preventative management of weeds/pests/disease
– Crop maintenance including, trellising, and weeding
– Harvesting, cleaning, and packing produce
– Small building projects
– Produce deliveries
Primary retail responsibilities include:
– Opening and closing the farm store (Fridays 2:00-6:00 and Saturdays 10:00-2:00)
– Communicating with customers
– Stocking and maintaining the displays
– Keeping inventory
– Assisting customers at point of sale
We are looking for candidates with the following traits:
– Strong work ethic, reliable, and punctual
– Efficient with the ability to multi-task
– High level of focus and stamina with attention to detail and quality standards
– Excellent listening and communication skills
– Strong interest in small-scale, organic agriculture with an eagerness to learn and grow as a farmer
– Openness to instruction and constructive feedback
– Organization and a sense of initiative
– Works well as a team and stays motivated when working on their own
– Ability to maintain a fast pace both independently and in a team setting
– Positive attitude and sense of humor
– Physically and emotionally fit for long days of manual labor in all weather conditions
– Must have valid drivers license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation to the farm
Employees will receive on the job training in all tasks associated with the job to the specifications and standards of our farm. Candidates should expect to work outdoors in all weather conditions and be present in their work.
Preference given to candidates with at least one full season of vegetable farming experience on a commercial farm. A passion for growing seasonal, honest food with organic and ecological practices is a must.
Benefits
Employees receive weekly vegetables, eggs, and a 10% discount on meat and other farm store products for personal use.
What to Expect from Us
We will do our best to provide adequate training and resources for all farm tasks, while maintaining good communication and a positive working environment. We strive for efficiency with our time and systems while also being attentive to our employees and their experience.
Application Details and Deadline
Please email your current resume and cover letter to [email protected] and complete the following application: https://surveymonkey.com/r/H72RM89.
Selected candidates will be contacted to set up an interview and conduct a farm tour prior to hire.
Deadline: We will be accepting applications until the position is filled.
Tilth & Timber
- Physical Address
- 165 Castine Road, Castine, ME, 04421
