Gaining Ground is a 3-acre nonprofit, no-till organic farm in Concord, Massachusetts, that supplies fresh, high-quality vegetables, flowers, herbs, maple syrup, and honey to emergency meal programs in Boston and the surrounding region. Our mission is simple: We grow organic produce for hunger relief with help from volunteers of all ages and abilities who work and learn in our fields. Everything we grow is given away. Our innovative approach is over 27 years old. It combines organic, sustainable agriculture with community volunteerism to improve equitable access to nutritious, fresh produce. Our grassroots organization thrives on committed, friendly individuals who support our mission with enthusiasm and a sense of humor.

In the 2021 growing season we harvested 100,000 pounds of produce, supplying more than 1,200 food-insecure households each week in the Greater Boston region. Gaining Ground uses regenerative practices centering around soil and plant health and creating a diverse ecosystem on the farm. The farm has been recognized for bio-intensive farming practices and is part of no-till studies led by NOFA, MDAR and USDA/NRCS, testing the soil health and nutrients of our produce. 

We are now hiring farm crew members for the 2022 season. Positions run from April to October, May to October or June to August (precise start/end dates TBD).

• 40 hours per week
• 5 day work week, Tuesday – Saturday 
• 1 Sunday/month for weekend chores

Responsibilities:

• Work directly with the farm manager, assistant farm manager, and other farm crew members.
• Implement all aspects of the farm including; greenhouse work, high tunnel work, field preparation, planting, cultivating, irrigation, cover cropping, harvesting, wash/pack, distribution to recipients, etc.  
• Lead and work alongside volunteers of all ages and abilities on a daily basis (COVID-19 safety protocols will be strictly enforced).
• Manage wash station as needed on a rotating schedule.
• Lead a free farmer’s market for a recipient partner 1x per month.
• Watering and irrigation chores one Sunday per month.

Qualifications:

• Interest in or experience with no-till farming practices.
• Ability to work independently, as well as with the farm manager and closely with other members of a small team.
• Ability to lead and work alongside volunteers on a daily basis.
• Comfortable interacting with an active board and interacting with recipient groups.
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds and perform repetitive physical tasks in all types of weather conditions (heat, rain, cold etc.).
• Organized, punctual and attentive to detail.
• Self motivated and curious to learn and develop farming methods.
• Open-mindedness and positive attitude.
• Quality, speed and efficiency is important.
• Satisfactory background and reference checks, as this position requires working directly with young children, differently-abled individuals, and volunteers with a wide range of histories and experiences.
• 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 not located close to public transport.

Compensation:

This position is hourly at a rate of $16.00-$17.00/hr, depending on experience.

To apply, please email your resume, cover letter, and three professional references to hiring@gainingground.org.