Job Description
Job Description
Reports To: Director of Fairgate Farm
Department: Fairgate Farm – Rippowam Corporation
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Part-Time, Seasonal (Annually March through November)
Wage: $20.00 per Hour
Hours: 20 – 25 Hours Weekly
Date Adopted: August 19, 2025
Revision Dates:
Fairgate Farm Overview
Fairgate Farm (Farm), Stamford’s unique communal urban farm, has grown considerably since 2010. The Farm has become a hub of excitement and opportunity when it comes to all aspects of agriculture, food access, health, environmentalism, and community building. Fairgate Farm has a small staff, but is mostly volunteer powered by individuals along with occasional corporate and community groups. The heart of the Farm’s mission is to combat food insecurity by growing and distributing nutrient-rich foods in an equitable way throughout Stamford. Website - https://fairgatefarm.com/
Position Summary
This position involves a variety of physically demanding tasks related to the day-to-day operation of a farm, including, but not limited to, planting, harvesting, soil cultivation, retail sales support and equipment maintenance. In addition, the farmhand will also assist with general farm upkeep, special projects, and may be required to work weekends.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Farm Operations
- Maintains farm grounds and sidewalk (mowing, trimming, litter clean up, putting out/taking in trash and recycling receptacles)
- Supports farm composting program (loading and unloading composter, recording data, keeping composter, bins, and surrounding areas clean and well maintained)
Crop Production
- Performs regular farm tasks as required (watering, weeding, planting, applying amendments, plant maintenance, harvesting, washing, preparing for distribution)
- Performs routine hydroponic garden tasks (seeding, transplanting, harvesting, hydroponic system maintenance)
Equipment Operation & Maintenance
- Keeps tools and equipment organized and in good working order
- Maintains farmstand, fences and other structures
Other
- Set up and clean-up of various farm classes, market operations and scheduled events
- Help instruct volunteers in proper farming techniques, as needed
- Assists with special projects, maintenance, or other tasks
- May be required to perform other related duties as required and/or assigned
- This position requires physical stamina, with the ability to lift fifty (50) pounds and over repeatedly for extended periods of time outdoors in various weather conditions
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Basic understanding of farming practices and machinery
- Ability to successfully work independently and as part of a team
- Strong communication and teamwork skills for collaborating with others
- Ability to work long hours and weekends, when necessary
- Attention to detail and ability to follow directions
- Ability to do manual work for extended periods
Mandatory Requirements
- Minimum of one (1) year of farmhand or professional-level gardening experience is mandatory
- Valid driver’s license is required
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English with colleagues and members of the community is mandatory
- Exceptionally reliable, professional and positive
- Passion for community driven initiatives