Job Title: Farm Hand
Reports To: Farm Owner
FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt
Position Type: Regular, Full-Time
Regular Work Hours: M-F 8AM - 4PM
Compensation: $30 or more per hr (DOE)
Location: Danbury, CT
Summary
The Farm Hand is essential to the success and growth of farm operations, which include small-scale livestock management, vegetable cultivation, and greenhouse technology. This hands-on role requires a versatile, proactive individual with experience in animal care and crop production, a can-do attitude, and a keen interest in mastering technical systems. The Farm Hand will work closely with and report directly to the farm's owners.
Essential Job DutiesLivestock Responsibilities:·
● Provide daily care for livestock species, including goats, poultry, and livestock guardian dogs
● Oversee egg production per CT standards, including collecting, storing and distributing
● Monitor breeding, birthing, and animal health, providing care for sick or injured animals as well as regular preventative care
● Assist with animal care tasks such as hoof trimming
● Maintain accurate livestock records
● Install, repair, and maintain fencing and livestock infrastructure
● Maintain livestock tools
● Maintain pasture, including mowing, brush clearing, and manure handling
● Uphold high aesthetic standards for all farm facilities, ensuring barns, pastures, and the farm office are tidy andwell-maintained
Greenhouse Management:
● Learning, monitoring, and managing automated greenhouse systems, including climate control, irrigation, and lighting
● Planting and harvesting crops
● Pruning and trellising crops
● Troubleshooting and maintaining sensors, actuators, and other technical components
● Analyzing data to optimize growing conditions for plants
● Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of greenhouse on a daily basis
Administrative Duties:
● Keeping accurate records of storage temperatures, livestock, crops, and greenhouse data
● Assign chores to other staff on a weekly basis and oversee their completion
● Implement safety protocols as needed (reporting incidents, etc.)
● May supervise staff as assigned
Work Environment
● Most work is performed outdoors in diverse weather conditions and in a greenhouse setting
● Operating heavy machinery and farm equipment
Physical Demands:
● Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
● Herding animals and mucking a barn
● Standing, crouching, kneeling, and bending for extended periods
● Performing physical labor outdoors in heat, cold, rain, and wind
Travel
● Occasional day trips to transport livestock or assist with off-site work
Required Education and Competencies
● High school diploma or GED
● At least 6 months of physically demanding outdoor work experience
● Livestock Experience
● Valid U.S. driver’s license in good standing
● Strong communication and teamwork skills
● Ability to operate tractor, truck and attachments and be able to perform labor in all weather conditions
Preferred Experience
● Landscape management experience
● Familiarity with greenhouse systems
● Interest in regenerative agriculture and sustainable food systems