Regenerative Livestock Farm Worker

We are a 20 year regenerative multi-animal livestock farm set in the rolling hills and woods of midwestern Michigan.

Pay Scale: TBD – based on experience and skill level

QUALIFICATIONS:

A heart for animals
Strong work ethic
Problem solving and communication skills
Practical knowledge and application of farm-related skills – ie: mechanical, building and grounds maintenance, equipment operation and care, livestock management (food, water, shelter, bedding, fences)
An observational eye: taking time to look, listen, and notice changes in animals, environment, broken equipment, etc.
Fortitude and strength of body, mind, and character; dedication to the work of tending lives humanely and responsibly throughout the changing seasons
A desire to learn the varied aspects involved in regenerative farming

JOB DESCRIPTION:  Working the farm as a team in a safe manner. Reporting to the Farm Manager(s). Carrying out daily farming operations/chores including, but not limited to:

Livestock Management: food, water, shelter, bedding, fences; herd health: breeding, vaccinating, birthing, castrating, etc.; livestock movement: to new pastures, abattoirs, etc.
Land Management: weed whipping, brush hogging, snow plowing; soil testing; planting, tilling, harvesting, spreading compost and soil amendments
Helping to stock freezers and keep inventory of products
Inventory management and transportation of grains, hay, straw, minerals, fuel, supplies
Building and Equipment management (helping with and/or learning): maintenance/repairs; construction /design
Marketing and public relations on farm, at events, and at farmers markets as needed. May include, but not limited to: farm tours, cash and inventory control, sales goals, product and freezer familiarity and access

COMPENSATION: This is a contract position, renewable annually from start date. The pay is commensurate with experience and skill level: to be determined during interview.

Key elements of the contract include:

A 6-day work week (45-55 hours per week or TBD), which includes Saturdays and rotating holidays and Sundays as needed.  *Hours will be determined during interview.
Weekly food bank of farm products (in addition to salary)
Compensation and/or time for extra work performed during peak farm needs
Paid vacation: one week (6 days paid) during the first calendar year. Requests must be pre-approved.

EXPECTATION OF WORKERS:

Honest and communicative
Punctual
Drug, alcohol and tobacco free at work
Work outside in all kinds of weather, per schedule and as needed
Wear appropriate clothing: gloves, boots, rain gear, masks, eye and ear protection, etc.
A cell phone the works around the farm – limited personal and earbuds use during work hours
Reliable transportation
Able to life decent amount of weight repeatedly
Work efficiently alone and as part of a team
Easy to work with, fast learner, sense of humour, heart for animals

WORKER DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Attending to food, water, shelter, bedding and fencing for all livestock
Visually checking of all stock at start of shift and closely monitoring special needs stock throughout shift (pregnant, young, sick) and at final chore round
Miscellaneous tasks assigned
Property and equipment maintenance, repairs, storage
Return tools, et al, daily to where they belong
Maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment and farm appearance
Complete daily time log and journal entries
Efficient use of time
Above all else, keep a close focus on safety, always
Have fun! Enjoy the animals, the nature, the beauty of this special place!

Thank you for your interest!  We look forward to hearing from you!

PLEASE CONTACT: DANI MACKENZIE @ 604-309-8409 OR email danimackenzie@hotmail.com