Position: Farm Assistant
Status: Hourly, Full-time
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill (SVPH) is on a mission to inspire generations through DISCOVERY, by sharing the legacies of the Kentucky Shakers. SVPH is committed to bridging historic preservation, land conservation, engaged learning and warm hospitality to present an unrivaled destination experience.
Home to the third largest Shaker community in the United States from 1805 until 1910, SVPH manages the country’s largest private collection of original 19th century buildings and is the largest National Historic Landmark in Kentucky. Onsite amenities include overnight accommodations, dining and catering services, retail shops, event and meeting venues, historical exhibitions and tours, farm and garden area, nature preserve, multi-use trail system, equestrian stable and an extensive calendar of special programs, activities and events.
The Farm Department
The Farm supports the mission of Shaker Village by demonstrating the thoughtful stewardship of land and livestock through sustainable agriculture practices, and by partnering with the Trustees Table to champion the use of The Farm’s products for our guests dining experiences.
Farm Assistant Position Summary
The Farm Assistant will assist the Farm Manager in all farm operations including, but not limited to: handling and working with livestock; planting, maintaining, and harvesting in the garden; care and management of the orchard and apiary. The Farm Assistant will be able to lead groups of farm staff and volunteers, and be able to handle all farm operations and emergencies in the absence of the Farm Manager. Successful applicants have experience with livestock care, as well as horticultural experiences. Must have excellent communication and problem solving skills, and a positive and friendly attitude. This position is integral in maintaining the health and wellness of our animals, stewardship of our land, and helping to facilitate a positive visitor experience
Duties and Responsibilities
Maintain healthy livestock.
Maintain a healthy and productive garden.
Interact with guests to the farm when applicable.
Working livestock including birthing, loading, and basic veterinary practices.
Ensure animals, staff, and visitors are safe.
Act as foreman in farm and garden work days with staff and/or volunteers
Follow best standards and practices of livestock and horticultural management.
Assist in the opening and closing of historic barn as needed
Assist in the maintenance and upkeep of pastures, paddocks, farm, and pens as needed.
Assist with any other duties that may come up in the farm and garden.
Role model teamwork and great visitor service
Handle all farm related duties in the absence of the Farm Manager.
Duties may change based on need.
Other duties as assigned by management.
Skills and Qualifications
Demonstrate strong passion and motivation to learn about Shaker agriculture.
Punctual and responsible to cover duties as scheduled
Pleasant, friendly manner towards visitors and colleagues, patience to share information with the public and respond to their needs
Ability to work safely and efficiently with a variety of animals, tools and equipment, including historic items
Education and Experience
High school diploma required
Experience working with farm animals, garden and/or agriculture
Able to pass a criminal record background and reference check
Available to work any shift as needed, including weekends, evenings and holidays.
Physical Requirements
Must be capable of standing for long periods
Must be capable of lifting 50 pounds
Must have excellent manual dexterity
Must be comfortable working with animals
Working Environment and Conditions
Regularly exposed to wet and/or humid conditions
Frequently exposed to outside weather conditions
This position requires working a flexible schedule, including weekdays, weekends and some evenings