Public Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Hildene -

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, is a nationally recognized historic site and nonprofit museum preserving the home and legacy of Robert Todd Lincoln and his family. The 412-acre estate includes historic buildings, forests, gardens, trails, and a working farm that demonstrates sustainable agricultural practices while connecting visitors to Vermont's rural heritage.

Position Summary-

Hildene is seeking a hardworking, dependable, and enthusiastic Farm Hand to join our agricultural team. Working on Hildene's historic farm is unlike working on a typical farm. Our farm is a living classroom, a working landscape, and an integral part of the visitor experience. The Farm Hand helps care for livestock, fields, fences, buildings, and equipment while supporting Hildene's mission of preservation, education, and stewardship.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys physical outdoor work, values teamwork, and takes pride in caring for animals and the land. The Farm Hand reports to the Livestock Manager and works closely with other farm staff, volunteers, and occasionally the public.

Essential Responsibilities -

Livestock Care

• Feed, water, and monitor livestock daily.
• Observe animal health and promptly report concerns.
• Assist with animal handling, movement, and veterinary care.
• Clean barns, stalls, paddocks, and feeding areas.
• Maintain high standards of animal welfare and biosecurity.

Farm Operations

• Operate tractors, utility vehicles, and farm equipment safely (training provided as appropriate).
• Perform routine maintenance of equipment, buildings, gates, and infrastructure.
• Help maintain attractive, safe, and functional farm facilities for both livestock and visitors.

Grounds and Seasonal Work

• Support special projects that improve the farm and surrounding landscape.

Education and Visitor Engagement

• Interact courteously with visitors.
• Answer basic questions about the farm and livestock or direct visitors to appropriate staff.
• Support educational programs, demonstrations, and public events when needed.
• Represent Hildene in a professional and welcoming manner.

Qualifications -

Required

• Strong work ethic and willingness to perform physically demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Interest in agriculture, livestock, or land stewardship.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings as required by farm operations.

Preferred

• Previous farm or livestock experience.
• Experience operating tractors or agricultural equipment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Experience with fencing, carpentry, landscaping, or equipment maintenance.
• First Aid or CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).

Physical Requirements -

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, climbing, and working on uneven terrain in varying weather conditions. Farm work is physically demanding and requires the ability to safely perform repetitive manual tasks throughout the day.

Personal Characteristics -

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Reliability and punctuality.
• Kindness and respect toward animals, coworkers, volunteers, and visitors.
• Curiosity and willingness to learn.
• Good judgment and attention to detail.
• A positive attitude and strong sense of responsibility.
• Pride in maintaining beautiful and well-functioning farm facilities.

Work Schedule -

This is a full-time, year-round position. Because livestock require daily care, the schedule includes weekends and holidays on a rotating basis. Flexibility is essential during breeding season, special events, and emergencies.

Compensation and Benefits -

Hildene offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a benefits package for eligible employees, professional development opportunities, and the opportunity to work in one of Vermont's most beautiful and historically significant landscapes.

Why Join 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.