Open Positions

 

Part-Time Gardener 20-32 hours

About Overlook FARM: 

Overlook Food Awareness Resource of Massachusetts, Inc. (Overlook FARM) is a working farm in Rutland, MA with deep roots in the community that teaches the value of sustainable agriculture and promotes food justice to grow a healthy world. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established to grow food to teach learners of all ages about the food system and share fresh, nutritious produce with the community.  Founded in 2018, we launched growing & programming in 2021, and 2022 was our first full growing season. We have a small-scale, no-till garden with room for expansion. 

Overlook FARM is seeking a part-time Gardener to oversee our planting, watering, weeding, harvesting and composting. This is a great opportunity for someone with vast or limited experience in growing food and passionate about sustainable agriculture, who is also excited to get their hands dirty, have a flexible schedule and support local food pantries. In 2024, we donated almost 4k pounds to 7 local food pantries. 

Working with the Executive Director, this position will execute an in-place growing plan for a garden that supports experiential programs for children and bulk food donations. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Oversee in-place sustainable growing plan for garden that meets needs for experiential programs and bulk donations to local organizations supporting food access. 

  • Oversee the growing season through Fall 2025.

  • Oversee volunteers (individuals and groups) working in the garden. The goal is to have a volunteer base to support garden work, including harvesting and preparing food for donation.

  • Work with additional part-time gardener to lead daily activities.

  • Transfer donations to farm across the street from Overlook on Thursdays after harvest and prep. (Must have transpiration to do so)

  • Occasionally transport to local food pantries. Gas reimbursement provided. 

  • Work with Director for supply needs, considering need, usage and budget.

  • Support programs helping children learn in the garden with direction from instructors and advanced notice.

  • Responsible for ensuring cleaning and organization of tools and equipment, making sure space is always safe for children on the farm.

Desired qualifications:

  • A passion for agriculture and education, enthusiasm for the vision and mission of Overlook FARM, and creativity in the promotion of the organization’s mission. 

  • Preferred: Two years of agricultural and/or vegetable growing experience, experience developing a growing plan and budget. 

  • Preferred: Experience working with volunteers, communicating expectations, and leading activities. 

  • Strong communication and organizational skills, along with the ability to work both independently and with others. 

  • Sense of humor, creative problem-solving skills, and flexibility. 

Physical requirements:

  • Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions – all seasons & types of New England weather.

  • Ability to climb stairs, stand, and/or sit for long periods of time. Able to stretch, bend and maneuver obstacles.

  • Physically able to engage in labor and activities necessary to manage a garden. 

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Schedule & Pay: 

  • This starts as part-time, $18-20 per hr., 20-32 hours per week, starting asap  to train under Executive Director. Create schedule in conjunction with additional PT gardener and flexibility to work weekends when volunteers are scheduled (in advance). 

Other requirements:

  • Reliable transportation, as there is no nearby public transportation. 

  • Satisfactory background, criminal, and reference checks and CPR. (Farm will pay for obtaining CPR)

  • To apply:

Send resume and cover letter to tamara@overlookfarmrutland.org

Overlook FARM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to inclusivity – recognizing it makes our organization stronger and our garden more productive.

Can’t take the job but want to dig your hands in the dirt? Please visit our Volunteer page to learn about how to support us.