THE QUEENS COUNTY FARM MUSEUM
Now hiring: Livestock Coordinator
The Queens County Farm Museum is a 47-acre working farm dating back to 1697. We are a public resource, visited by over 400,000 people each year. The site includes a landmark farmhouse, glass greenhouse, and restored barns which give us a glimpse into our agrarian past. Its rich glacial soil–which attracted European settlers in the 17th century–is cultivated today using sustainable practices, providing people with the freshest food. We are a New York City treasure where historic structures, productive fields, woodland, and livestock bring agricultural history to life.
Job Description: Livestock Coordinator
Queens Farm’s multi-species livestock operation is an integral part of this diversified small farm. The Livestock Coordinator will act as the main point-person within the Agriculture Department for livestock care, under the supervision of the Director of Agriculture. In addition to participating in all aspects of our production farm (from seeding to harvesting), Livestock Coordinator responsibilities include — but are not limited to — daily livestock chores, general maintenance, health monitoring, management of supply inventory and feed ordering, ongoing livestock area and infrastructure maintenance, and execution of livestock rotation. The Livestock Coordinator will always have eyes on the animals, and provide regular feedback to supervisors. The position will begin in the winter of 2019.
Responsibilities
Management of integrated, multi-species livestock operation
- Daily livestock chores, including feeding, monitoring, and mucking
- General maintenance of paddocks, fencing, and housing
- Inventory, source, and order all livestock supplies
- Plan and execute intensive multispecies paddock/pasture/woodland rotation on limited acreage
- Regularly handle and move sheep, cows, goats, alpacas, pigs, and laying hens
- Healthcare management, general and emergency
- Oversee egg production and collection
- Oversight of sheep and alpaca shearing, wool processing, and marketing
- Hoof trimming of sheep and goats
- Staff orientation and training on livestock care, handling procedures, and safety requirements
- Communication with Education Department staff on a range of livestock topics
- Research, acquire, and transport new livestock
- Evaluate existing livestock operation and establish goals and objectives
General
- Assist with vegetable operation as needed – with harvest and crop maintenance – April – October, work with vegetables approximately 50% of time
- Participate in annual planning
- Provide administrative support for existing farm programs and events
Required Skills & Experience
- 3-4 years experience in livestock care (preferably management)
- Bachelor’s degree
- Strong understanding of animal care: available feedstuffs, diseases, environmental conditions
- Passion for animals, agriculture, and farm-based education
- Exceptional leadership qualities
- Patience, flexibility, and strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Self-motivation
- Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail, time management, and prioritization
- Strategic thinking within the context of Queens Farm initiatives
- Appreciation for working on an public farm in the most diverse county in the country
- Ability to lift at least 50 pounds and to be outside in adverse weather conditions
Hours & Compensation
40 hours/week. Hours of work vary depending upon program demands. Weekend hours are often required. The position begins in the winter of 2019. Pay: $20/hr.
To Apply
Please send cover letter, resume, and 3 references to: jen@queensfarm.org
The Queens County Farm Museum is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.
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Jen Griffith
Director, Agriculture Department
Queens Farm
Queens Farm
73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Floral Park, New York 11004
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