Farm Apprenticeships on Island in Maine

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Farm Apprenticeships on Island: Please consider joining us on beautiful North Haven Island for the 2016 growing season. Now accepting applications for farm apprenticeships. Applications due by March 1^st. Thanks!

https://www.turner-farm.com/employment/

TURNER FARM is a 230-acre historic saltwater farm on the island of North Haven, Maine, which is one of the most beautiful  places on earth.  We grow approximately three acres of certified organic vegetables and flowers in fields, mobile hoop houses and several green houses heated by a wood boiler. We also raise heritage pigs, have a flock of laying hens and operate a small dairy and farmstead creamery featuring Jersey and Normande cows. In addition to our farm stand, we host weekly events including weddings, parties and farm-to-table suppers in our beautiful barn. The events are catered by our sister business, Nebo Lodge. North Haven Island is located 12 miles off-shore and is accessible by ferry from Rockland, Maine.

APPRENTICESHIP DESCRIPTION 
Over the course of the growing season, we aim to provide motivated candidates with the knowledge and skills needed to manage an organic farm. In exchange, apprentices perform the day-to-day tasks that keep our farm running. Apprenticeships are hard work with long hours but include the invaluable benefit of observing and taking part in the inner workings of a farm. Apprentices are engaged in every aspect of our crop operation from the greenhouse to the wash station to the farm stand and are expected to follow instructions and complete tasks in a timely manner. Apprentices report directly to the crops manager, but will also have opportunities to work with the livestock and creamery managers and to interact with farm animals. The apprentice crew plays a vital role for the farm to meet production goals throughout the growing season.

QUALIFICATIONS 
At Turner Farm, we strive to build a team of reliable, enthusiastic, motivated, hard working, and dedicated farmers for a successful apprenticeship. Previous farm experience is preferred but not required. We are looking for people who can work quickly and efficiently, but who are also careful and able to take direction and can follow through with tasks until completion.  It is essential that you can work independently and with others equally well. Farm work varies with the season, but is often repetitive and can be physically and mentally demanding.  Being able to lift heavy objects, bend over repeatedly, and be on your feet most of the day is necessary to this job. A positive attitude and cheerful disposition would be most welcome!

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS
Our season runs from the beginning of April into early November and we need people who are willing to commit to most of the season. Employees will be allowed to take days off during the season, but we cannot accommodate time off from June 25-Labor Day due to the increased level of work at the farm during these weeks.

HOUSING
We will provide you with a place to live as long as you are working on the farm. Each apprentice has their own small bedroom in a seasonal cabin and has access to a shared kitchen, bathroom, shower and laundry facility located in a nearby farm building. A social area is  located in the vicinity of the sleeping quarters and a stunning private beach is just steps away!

COMPENSATION
In addition to picturesque ocean views, free housing, access to staff vegetables and a discount on farm-produced meats and dairy products, apprentices are paid a monthly stipend of $800-1200/month, depending on experience.