PART-TIME MILKER
The farm team is part of a larger organization that includes the creamery, medicinal gardens, and farm store. Our herd consists of Brown Swiss, Jersey, Devon, Guernsey, and a number of crosses. We know our cows well and they know us. We strive for excellence in the care of our herd, the soil, and our raw milk products.
The Part-time Milker will be milking approximately twenty cows for 12-24 hours per week, depending on availability. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2-6pm are a must. The ability to work Monday and Friday from 2-6, and/or a morning milking shift from 6-10am are a plus. We work with a set schedule but some flexibility and the ability to switch/cover shifts with advance notice is ideal.
In addition to the milking responsibilities, milkers assist with day-to-day and seasonal farm chores. Our facilities are very comfortable to work in and the work pace is reasonable. Experience in milking is preferred but not required. We are happy to train a milker who possesses the right qualities. Ability to communicate with farm management, co-workers and visitors is key.
Responsibilities:
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Afternoon and morning milking as scheduled including set up and clean up
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Feed the calves, beef, and pigs
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Maintain the barn in a clean and organized manner
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Perform dairy wash routine and maintain dairy quality standards
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Implement Churchtown Dairy’s grazing plan
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Operate tractors and other light farm equipment (not a requirement)
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Maintain herd awareness and apply basic remedies according to Churchtown Dairy protocols
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Maintain daily documentation in farm journal
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Communicate in a professional and respectful manner with all staff
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Assist in hay making and general farm chores, including use of farm equipment
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Engage with visitors in a warm and positive manner
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Participate in weekly farm team meetings
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We know it is impossible to convey every single task for a particular job in a single job post. Our hope is that as we work together we can use this job as a starting point so that your role can evolve over time and we can adjust your job description accordingly.
Requirements:
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Reliable
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Punctual
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Ability to work with cows in a respectful manner and/or willing to learn
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Interest in and/or openness to Biodynamics
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Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully
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Ability to use basic communication and organizational software (email, Microsoft Word & Excel and/or Google Docs & Sheets, etc.)
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Excellent interpersonal skills
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Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
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Ability to operate/or learn to operate farm machinery including tractor and skid steer
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A commitment to strive for best farming practices
Compensation:
This is an hourly position working 12-24 hours per week. Compensation for the position is based on experience, starting at $18 per hour. Benefits include Paid Time Off and a 25% discount on all farm store products. We offer comprehensive medical and dental coverage for individuals who commit to a full year with us.
Apply:
If this position sounds interesting to you, please forward a COVER LETTER and RESUME to our Head of People & Culture: jeremy@churchtowndairy.org with “Milker” in the subject line. We look forward to hearing from you.
About Us:
Churchtown Dairy aims to be a beacon, warning against the destruction done by “Big Ag” while promoting regenerative organic farming practices in harmony with nature and in alignment with animal, plant, and microbial life. We use biodynamic principles that enhance and deepen our relationship with the Earth. We strive to nurture a growing community of local, national, and global allies. We are an accessible resource for farmers, scholars, educators, entrepreneurs, and the generally curious. We provide access to healthy foods and products including raw milk, farmstead cheese, grass-fed beef, eggs, and medicinal remedies.