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Farm Manager

Deer Isle Oyster Company Deer Isle, ME

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Description

Position Type: Full-time, Spring Start Date - TBD Fall End Date

Role Summary:

We are seeking a motivated, reliable, and energetic Oyster Farm Manager to oversee day-to-day farming operations. This leadership role entails stock management, sorting, culling, and grading oysters, as well as managing biofouling and landing market-sized product. The manager will lead a farm crew of 1-2 individuals and is expected to exhibit excellent communication, safety awareness, strong prioritization skills, and compassionate leadership. We value individuals who can adapt and problem-solve effectively in a fast-paced environment. The position entails 5-day, 40-hour workweeks from March through November/December, with potential for year-round employment based on performance.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead a 1-2 person farm crew with a focus on safety and productivity
  • Communicate effectively with the Events Coordinator, Chief Operations Officer and Owner about farm harvest, operations and needs
  • Operate processing equipment on the oyster float, including solar powered tumbler and pumps
  • Plan daily schedules around farm accessibility and seasonal needs
  • Raise and lower farm infrastructure in spring and fall
  • Deploy and measure-out oyster seed
  • Maintain appropriate stocking densities of oyster inventory on the farm
  • Adhere to state Vibrio regulations for safe oyster handling
  • Harvest market-ready oysters to meet company quality specifications
  • Prevent and manage biofouling on gear, equipment, and oysters
  • Conduct record-keeping for quality control, inventory, and farm maintenance
  • Utilize Google Suite and other applications for reporting, logging, and maintenance records
  • Repair, maintain, and deploy gear as necessary
  • Record data for plastic-free aquaculture initiatives as required
  • Collaborate with the owner and COO to improve farm efficiency and evaluate new technologies
  • Manage farm supplies and vessel inventory

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 2 years of experience working with and handling small boats (oyster farming experience preferred)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Strong, clear communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions from March to December
  • Physical capacity to work on your feet on the water, and lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs
  • Willingness to live or relocate within a reasonable commuting distance to the farm
  • Experience steering and safely maneuvering 20-25’ boats with outboards (helm and tiller steering)
  • Competency in rowing
  • Familiarity with operating and maintaining winches, haulers, and pumps

Preferred Skills and Traits:

  • Highly organized and adaptable to new challenges
  • Troubleshooting skills and the ability to address issues quickly
  • Enthusiastic about outdoor work environments, sustainability, aquaculture, and small business
  • Capable of working both independently and collaboratively

Compensation and Perks:

  • Competitive pay, dependent on experience
  • Guaranteed 5-day, 40-hour workweek
  • Paid lunch breaks
  • Weekends off
  • Enjoy plenty of fresh oysters!

How to Apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to: [email protected]