Farming Apprenticeship Program

Gaining Ground is a non-profit, no-till, organic farm. At our flagship farm and satellite fields we actively cultivate 8 acres of land to grow over 50 varieties of vegetables, herbs, fruit, and flowers in fields interspersed with perennial hedgerows. We produce for 18 hunger relief organizations with the help of a community of volunteers and donate 100% of the food we grow. We harvest over 133,000 pounds of produce annually, supplying more than 2,100 food-insecure households each week in the Greater Boston region. We also welcome over 3,500 volunteers of all ages and abilities to the farm each season.

We’re seeking to welcome three participants in our 2026 Farmers Apprenticeship Program. We’re looking for candidates with the desire to learn innovative systems to sustainably farm within our changing climate. They will learn from our professional farm team, working alongside thousands of volunteers, and all to support hunger relief. Our curriculum encompasses hands-on training and classroom workshops with the opportunity for individualized areas of focus. 

Schedule: 
Average 40 hours per week, Tuesday through Saturday, with up to one Sunday per month for greenhouse watering duties. Start times will fluctuate accordingly:

April: 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

May: 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

June – August: 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

September: 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

October: 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Responsibilities & Expectations:

  • Involvement in all aspects of the farm, including: greenhouse seeding, transplanting, high tunnel work, field preparation, composting, mulching, cultivation, harvest, wash and distribution, pest management, barn and kitchen cleaning
  • Lead 1-2 volunteer groups each week. This includes corporate groups, school groups, faith-based organizations, and individuals from the community. Farmers will educate volunteers about our growing practices, mission, and food security initiatives while working alongside them in the field
  • Greenhouse and irrigation duties up to one Sunday per month
  • Willingness to give and receive feedback in the field and during scheduled check ins
  • We encourage all crew members to pursue their own areas of interest on the farm and will work with individuals on a one-on-one basis to set goals

Qualifications:

  • Strong interest in agriculture and some experience preferred. 
  • Enthusiasm and ability to work with volunteer groups of all ages and abilities on a regular basis
  • Positive and compassionate attitude towards colleagues, volunteers, donors, partners, GG Board, and all farm visitors 
  • Willingness to meet all farm visitors where they’re at on their understanding of farming and issues of food justice
  • Desire to learn and be curious
  • Exceptional work ethic, reliability, and punctuality
  • Excellent communication and listening skills
  • Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Interest in and/or experience with no-till farming practices
  • Willingness to work cooperatively with Gaining Ground’s office team
  • Ability to work with a team and independently
  • Comfortable interacting with an engaged board of directors and our 17 partner organizations 
  • Ability to lift 30-40 pounds and perform repetitive physically taxing tasks
  • Satisfactory background and reference checks
  • A valid driver’s license
  • Cell phone communication
  • Reliable transportation

Please note that we are unable to provide housing as part of this position. Having your own means of transportation (car or bike) is strongly encouraged, as we are unfortunately not located close to public transport. 

Gaining Ground is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment of belonging for all employees. We welcome all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, or marital status.

Compensation:

  • April – October Apprentice Positions
    • $20/hour with paid lunch hour
    • $250/month health stipend
    • 6 days paid vacation and 5 federal holidays
    • Up to 5 paid sick days
    • Professional development opportunities
    • Fresh farm veggies

To Apply:

Please email a letter of interest, resume and 2-3 references to hiring@gainingground.org. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and we will begin interviewing in January. We look forward to hearing from you!