Employment Opportunities
Available Positions
Studios Manager
Status: Part-Time. Approximately 20-30 hours per week
Schedule: Seasonal, 10-month position (March–November)
Location: Loudon, New Hampshire
Reports to: Program Manager, Education
Supervises: Volunteers and seasonal studio support staff
Position Summary
The Studios Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional operation of Sanborn Mills Farm’s traditional and heritage craft studios, including woodworking, blacksmithing/grinding, tin-smithing, fiber arts, dye, weaving/spinning, basketry, and related workshop spaces. This role ensures that all studios, tools, and materials are fully prepared for programs while supporting instructors, students, and guests in delivering exceptional educational experiences.
Working in close collaboration with the Program Manager, Director of Operations, and senior leadership, the Studios Manager upholds the highest standards of safety, operational excellence, and budget stewardship while helping advance Sanborn Mills Farm’s mission of hands-on, heritage craft education.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Studio Operations
- Oversee the day-to-day operation of all studios and workshop locations, ensuring spaces are safe, clean, organized, and fully workshop ready.
- Coordinate studio and space usage with the Program Manager and program team.
- Prepare studios for seasonal programming, including winterization and support of future winter operations.
- Develop and document operational procedures for new studios as educational programs expand.
- Partner with the Director of Operations on environmental, health, safety, and infrastructure needs.
Safety, Risk Management & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with OSHA, federal, and New Hampshire safety standards, including equipment use, PPE, hazard communication, and safe operating procedures.
- Maintain and update Safety Data Sheets (SDS), safety protocols, and equipment operation standards.
- Conduct safety training for instructors, staff, and volunteers.
- Oversee incident reporting, equipment safety, and daily compliance practices.
Inventory, Materials & Loss Prevention
- Conduct annual and biannual inventories of tools, equipment, and materials to ensure safety, accountability, and loss prevention.
- Maintain accurate records and tracking systems for materials and equipment.
- Recommend replacement, repair, and upgrades as needed.
Instructor & Workshop Support
- Serve as the primary operational point of contact for instructors before and during workshops.
- Provide orientation for studios and housing, including setup, tool preparation, and material staging.
- Maintain setup guides, checklists, and orientation materials.
- Ensure a professional, well-organized environment that supports high-quality teaching and strong student experiences.
Equipment & Tool Maintenance
- Oversee maintenance, repair, and safe operation of all studio tools, machinery, and specialized equipment.
- Maintain preventative maintenance schedules and service logs.
- Coordinate facility improvements and equipment upgrade with the Director of Operations.
Procurement, Budget & Program Support
- Track and order supplies, consumables, tools, hardware, raw materials, and specialty equipment.
- Maintain vendor relationships and ensure timely procurement aligned with workshop schedules.
- Partner with the Program Manager on budget preparation, cost projections, and monitoring of studio expenditures.
- Provide inventory data and equipment lists to support planning, grant applications, donor communications, and development initiatives.
Student & Guest Experience
- Support leadership in delivering a welcoming, professional, and well-managed learning environment.
- Assist with workshop openings and provide on-site support to ensure smooth program operations.
- Contribute to evaluation processes and continuous improvement.
Future Winter Programming
- Collaborate with leadership to plan and operationalize winter studios and year-round classes.
- Develop winter-specific operational procedures, including heating, ventilation, equipment conditioning, and safety practices.
- Support evolving staffing models and workflows as programming grows.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintain organized digital records, including inventory databases, maintenance logs, and workshop documentation.
- Provide regular reports and updates to the Program Manager and Executive Director.
- Train, supervise, and support volunteers and seasonal staff.
Qualifications
Required
- Demonstrated understanding and appreciation of traditional craft disciplines (e.g., woodworking, blacksmithing, fiber arts).
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to lift 40–50 lbs. and perform physical tasks (with reasonable accommodation).
- Proficiency with basic computer tools, spreadsheets, and digital record-keeping.
Preferred
- 3–5 years of experience in studio, workshop, or craft art making–facility management.
- Knowledge of shop and studio safety standards and safe equipment operation.
- Experience in adult education, craft schools, or nonprofit arts or educational environments.
- Experience working with artists, designers, and craftspeople in collaborative settings.
- Familiarity with nonprofit operations, development, or grant writing.
Working Conditions & Schedule
- Flexible schedule required, including weekends and evenings based on workshop activity. Saturday mornings should be expected along with occasional early evenings.
- Outdoor educational spaces and indoor studio classroom environments with exposure to noise, dust, tools, machinery, and variable temperatures.
- Outdoor movement between buildings in all weather conditions required.
- Compliance with all SMF safety policies and use of PPE is mandatory.
FLSA Classification
Non-Exempt
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Benefits in accordance with Sanborn Mills Farm personnel policies.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Sanborn Mills Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on any protected basis under federal or New Hampshire law.
Apply
Interested candidates should apply to the Program Manager. A resume and a cover letter should be sent to marsha@sanbornmills.org Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
Farm Cook
Status: Full Time
Schedule: Seasonal, 7-month position (April–October)
Location: Loudon, New Hampshire
Reports to: Head Chef
Position Summary
Full-Time/Seasonal
The Culinary Assistant works under the direction and supervision of the Head Chef to help prepare meals and keep the galley and food storage areas clean. The kitchen assistant will be responsible for food preparation, dish washing, cleaning/sanitizing the kitchen.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Work one on one with the Chef to coordinate and carry out the preparation of all meals (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and dessert.)
- Help the Chef prepare meals using a variety of normal kitchen tools, as well as galley appliances such as food processors, mixers, blenders, ovens, ranges and grills.
- Help prepare the buffet for guests and students.
- Rinse and clean dishes, pots, pans and utensils and put them away.
- Help maintain all cooking items and service items in orderly and absolutely sanitary condition according to good health-keeping practices, government regulations and SMF standards.
- Regularly clean and sanitize galley walls, range hood, overheads, cabinet faces, reefer and freezer interiors, and cabinet interiors.
- At least once per day clean and sanitize galley work surfaces, reach-in cooler doors, range surfaces and galley floor.
- Ensure cleaning materials are stocked.
- Bus and clean dining area after meals.
Requirements:
- Minimum of one year restaurant, catering, hotel or banquet cooking experience.
- A passion for a seed to plate experience.
- A love for farms & sustainable practices.
- Must be available to work on weekends. Shifts are mostly Wednesday-Sunday
- Serve Safe certified is preferred but if not will provided training
Skills/Abilities:
Outgoing and friendly demeanor, able to engage and communicate easily with co-workers and students/guests.
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: $16.00 – $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
License/Certification:
- Driver’s License (Preferred)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Preferred)
- Night Shift (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Equal Employment Opportunity
Sanborn Mills Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on any protected basis under federal or New Hampshire law.
Apply
Interested candidates should apply to the Head Chef. A resume and a cover letter should be sent to kelly@sanbornmills.org Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
Summer Farm Assistant
Status: Full Time
Schedule: Seasonal 13 weeks (flexible start/end dates); Includes: Rotating weekend work as part of the regular schedule
Location: Loudon, New Hampshire
Reports to: Farm Manager
Position Summary
Full-Time/Seasonal
Sanborn Mills Farm seeks motivated Summer Farm Assistants to support daily operations during the busy growing season. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, outdoor environments, and learning both traditional and modern farming practices. The position includes active collaboration with other departments—including the Sawmill, Gristmill, Operations, and program teams—to ensure smooth coordination for daily work, events, workshops, and farm-wide activities. Weekend duties are shared across the team on a rotating basis.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Assist with planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting crops
- Support hay production, including mowing, tedding, raking, and stacking
- Operate basic farm equipment and tools (training provided)
- Support livestock care, including feeding, watering, and cleaning pens
- Help maintain farm infrastructure such as fences, trails, and outbuildings
- Wash, sort, and pack produce for markets or CSA distribution
- Load and unload supplies and assist with market preparation
- Participate in rotating weekend chores and seasonal farm tasks
- Follow safety guidelines and maintain clean, organized work areas
- Work closely with Sawmill, Gristmill, Operations, and program staff to support shared projects, daily logistics, and cross-department needs
- Assist with farm events, including setup, breakdown, material movement, and supporting instructors or demonstrators as needed
Requirements:
- Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently or as part of a team
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Prior farm or outdoor labor experience is helpful but not required
- Ability to participate in rotating weekend work
- Willingness to collaborate with multiple departments and assist with events
Skills/Abilities:
- Active, hands-on, and fast-paced
- Early morning start times may be required
- Work takes place in fields, barns, greenhouses, historic farm spaces, and in coordination with Sawmill, Gristmill, Operations, and event staff
Benefits:
- Opportunities to learn traditional skills
- Hands-on exposure to draft animals, with the chance to assist with basic care or field support during farm-wide activities
- Flexible scheduling
- Supportive, community-oriented environment at a historic working farm
- Experience working collaboratively across multiple departments—including the Sawmill and Gristmill—and supporting public events
License/Certification:
- Driver’s License (preferred)
Equal Employment Opportunity
Sanborn Mills Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on any protected basis under federal or New Hampshire law.
Apply
Interested candidates should apply to the Farm Manager. A resume and a cover letter should be sent to ray@sanbornmills.org Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
Horse Teamster/ Farm Hand
Status: Full Time
Schedule: Includes a rotating weekend work as part of the regular schedule
Location: Loudon, New Hampshire
Reports to: Farm Manager
Position Summary
Full-Time/Seasonal
Sanborn Mills Farm seeks a highly skilled and experienced Horse Teamster & Working Farm Operator who brings their own well‑trained draft horse team. This mission‑critical role supports the farm’s agricultural, forestry, and educational programs through the safe and effective use of horse‑drawn equipment. The teamster also contributes to broader farm operations beyond horse work and serves as a core member of the Farm Team. Work includes field preparation, logging, transportation, and public‑facing activities such as wagon rides, sleigh rides, and special events, as well as routine farm tasks—garden work, fencing, animal chores, and seasonal projects completed without horses.
The ideal candidate demonstrates a deep commitment to animal welfare, strong situational awareness, and the ability to assess and respond to horses’ needs in real time. This role also supports the farm’s mission by teaching and mentoring students, interns, and guests in traditional horse‑powered skills. Experience in hay production, animal husbandry, and horticulture is required.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Feed, water, and groom horses daily.
- Drive draft horses for farm work, logging, wagon rides, sleigh rides, and special events.
- Maintain tack and all related draft equipment in safe working order.
- Provide a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience for students, visitors, and workshop participants.
- Follow all safety protocols for animal handling and public interaction.
- Assist the Farm Team with animal chores, garden maintenance, fencing projects, and hay production.
- Perform grounds and seasonal maintenance.
- Support cross‑department operations as needed.
Requirements:
- Proven experience training and safely driving draft horses.
- Working knowledge of both conventional and historical farming practices.
- Ability to operate conventional farm and logging equipment (e.g., tractors, chainsaws).
- Experience with animal husbandry for multiple species (chickens, sheep, pigs, cattle).
- Mechanical and carpentry skills are preferred.
- Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.
- Willingness to participate in rotating weekend coverage.
- Experience teaching or engaging with the public through workshops, demonstrations, or outreach.
Work Environment
This position is based on a historic, working farm that operates year‑round in a variety of weather conditions. Work is primarily outdoors and involves physical labor, interaction with animals, and engagement with students and visitors. The role requires comfort working around draft horses, farm equipment, uneven terrain, and active workshop environments.
The schedule varies seasonally based on farm needs, program activity, and weather. Flexibility is essential, including early mornings, occasional evenings, and rotating weekend shifts. Seasonal demands—such as haying, logging, and public events—may require additional hours. Sanborn Mills Farm maintains a “one mission, one team” culture where staff support one another across departments as needed.
Compensation and Horse Care Prevision:
- Salary of $55,000 annually
- Stalls and/or paddock housing for the draft team
- Hay and grain consistent with farm standards
- Routine veterinary care
- Routine Farrier Services
- Bedding
- Participation in professional development opportunities
The provision of horse housing and care is contingent upon active employment and compliance with the Draft Horse Use & Liability Addendum.
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
License/Certification:
- Driver’s License
Equal Employment Opportunity
Sanborn Mills Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on any protected basis under federal or New Hampshire law.
Apply
Interested candidates should apply to the Farm Manager. A resume and a cover letter should be sent to ray@sanbornmills.org Applications will be accepted until position is filled.