Farm Hand - Part-time, Year-round in Manchester, Vermont at Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

About Hildene

Hildene is more than a historic home. It is a place where history, agriculture, conservation, and education intersect. Situated on more than 400 acres in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Hildene welcomes visitors to explore the legacy of the Lincoln family while experiencing a working farm, restored landscapes, forests, gardens, and educational programs that inspire stewardship of both our past and our future.

Our farm is an essential part of that mission. We believe agriculture connects people to the land, to one another, and to the enduring values of responsibility, resilience, and community.

Position Summary

Hildene is hiring a part-time, year-round Farm Hand (16-20 hours per week) to help care for our livestock and poultry animals, working between the barn and the goat dairy on the property.

The ideal candidate is a dependable, hands-on person who enjoys working with animals and is comfortable with physically demanding outdoor work in all kinds of weather. They take initiative, pay close attention to detail, and work well both independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for the livestock and poultry animals – including but not limited to feeding, watering, filling feed cans and hay general daily care
• Observe and/or examine animals to ensure animals remain healthy and happy.
• Clean stalls, sheds, barns and equipment as needed.
• Help work on projects that the farm team is working on – put up temporary fencing, moving animals, lambing, stacking hay, milking goats, etc.
• Help to maintain a clean, safe environment for the public to visit.
• Welcome visitors and interpret Hildene's agricultural mission.
• Maintain consistent communication and report any concerns to a supervisor.
• Perform other duties as requested by supervisor or leadership staff.

Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and take and follow directions carefully but also the ability to work in a team environment as well
• Interest in agriculture, animals and land stewardship
• Ability to always interact in a positive and professional manner.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors under all weather conditions and terrains.
• Must possess the following traits and skills: Flexibility, dependability, critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making skills
• Valid Driver’s License.

Physical Qualifications -

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, climbing, and working on

uneven terrain in all weather conditions. Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds. Farm work is physically demanding and requires the ability to safely perform repetitive manual tasks throughout the day.

Desired Qualities

We are looking for someone who is:

• Curious, engaging, and enthusiastic about teaching a range of livestock-based subjects to visitors of all ages and learning types.
• Organized, dependable, and attentive to detail.
• Capable of working thoughtfully and collaboratively in a busy organization.
• A deft problem solver who takes initiative.
• Committed to conservation, sustainability, and lifelong learning.
• Excited to help visitors connect with the land and understand why agriculture matters.

Why Hildene?

Working at Hildene means becoming part of an organization dedicated to preserving history while stewarding the land for future generations. Every fence repaired, every pasture maintained, and every animal cared for contributes to an experience that inspires thousands of visitors each year. If you enjoy meaningful work, take pride in caring for the land, and want to be part of a mission-driven team, we encourage you to apply.

Hildene is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming workplace for employees, volunteers, and visitors alike.

Compensation: Starting hourly wage of $18/hr

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until the position is filled.