Farm Worker
Landis Valley Museum
Job Summary:
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, a living history museum dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rural heritage of southeastern Pennsylvania, is seeking a dedicated and hardworking Farm Worker to join our dynamic agricultural team. The Farm Worker will be responsible for a variety of tasks related to the cultivation of historic crops, the care of livestock, and the maintenance of the museum's farmstead. This position with the Landis Valley Associates, a 501c3 corporation that supports the operation of the Museum, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the museum's mission by actively participating in the daily operations of a working historical farm.
Key Responsibilities:
Planting, Cultivating, and Harvesting Crops: Participate in all aspects of crop production, including tilling soil, applying fertilizers and organic amendments, planting seeds and seedlings using historical methods and modern techniques, weeding, pruning, and harvesting a variety of field crops, vegetables, and herbs.
Livestock Care: Provide daily care for the museum's livestock, including feeding, watering, observing animals for signs of illness or injury, assisting with handling and movement, and ensuring animal housing (barns, pens, and pastures) is clean, safe, and well-maintained.
Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Operate and maintain a variety of farm equipment, including tractors, cultivators, mowers, and other machinery relevant to historical and contemporary farming practices. Maintenance of fences, gates, feed troughs, in coordination with the Manager and PHMC Staff. Perform basic maintenance tasks and discuss any mechanical issues with the Manager.
Record Keeping: Assist in maintaining accurate records related to crop yields, planting schedules, livestock health, feed consumption, and other relevant farm activities.
General Labor: Perform a wide range of general labor tasks essential to the upkeep of the farmstead, including fence repair and installation, building maintenance, pasture management, woodlot work, and general cleaning of farm areas.
Following Safety Protocols: Adhere to all established safety guidelines and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for oneself, colleagues, and museum visitors.
Visitor Interaction: Engage with museum visitors in a friendly and informative manner, explaining farming practices and the role of agriculture in the region's history (as appropriate).
Assist with Special Projects: Participate in occasional special projects related to the farm, such as historical demonstrations, educational programs, and site improvements.
Required Skills:
3- 5 years previous working on a farm and with livestock.
Physical Stamina: Demonstrated ability to perform demanding manual labor for extended periods and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
Knowledge of Farming Practices: A general understanding of crop cycles, basic livestock care principles, and agricultural techniques. Familiarity with both historical and modern farming methods is a plus.
Ability to Follow Instructions: Capacity to understand and adhere to oral and written instructions and procedures provided by supervisors.
Basic Mechanical Skills: Ability to safely operate and perform basic maintenance on farm equipment. Experience with repairing farm machinery is beneficial.
Teamwork and Communication Skills: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, communicate clearly and respectfully with colleagues and supervisors, and interact positively with museum visitors.
Attention to Detail: Keen observation skills to monitor crop health, livestock well-being, and equipment functionality.
Commitment to Safety: A strong awareness of safety protocols and a proactive approach to maintaining a safe work environment.
Experience operating specific types of farm equipment.
The position requires working weekends and some evenings and a willingness to perform a wide range of responsibilities.
Support the mission of the Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum to interpret Pennsylvania German life and material culture from 1740 – 1940.
Preferred Qualifications:
Living History Farm experience.
Basic carpentry or repair skills.
Landis Valley Associates is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. This is a full-time position (37.5 hours per week), $18/hour. Health Insurance is not included. Vacation is available after three months.
To Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience and interest in the position to Landis Valley Associates Manager, Terry Kreider Terry.Kreider@Landisvalleyassociates.org or call 717-569-0401 ext. 225.
