Farm Maintenance Handyman – Part Time
White Gate Farm – East Lyme, Connecticut
About White Gate Farm
White Gate Farm specializes in fresh organic produce, poultry, eggs, and flowers. Situated in Southeastern Connecticut on 100 acres of lovely New England landscape, it is a great destination for shopping at our farm stand, visiting the animals and seeing a small family farm that above all values the health of its customers and the environment.
Position Overview
White Gate Farm is seeking a dependable and skilled Farm Maintenance Technician to support the Farm Maintenance Manager with the overall upkeep and functionality of farm facilities and infrastructure. Under the direction of the Farm Maintenance Manager, this role is responsible for groundskeeping, irrigation systems, equipment maintenance, and greenhouse support to ensure efficient and safe daily operations. This is a seasonal part-time position up to 30 hours per week until December 2026, with reduced hours thereafter from January to March. The schedule will generally be three to four days per week, but may vary based on production and seasonal needs.
Key Responsibilities
Groundskeeping & Property Maintenance
- Maintain farm grounds including mowing, trimming, weed control, and debris removal
- Maintain roads, pathways, fencing, and drainage systems
- Assist with general landscaping and property improvements
- Keep work areas clean, organized, and hazard-free
Irrigation Systems
- Assist with installation, maintenance , and repair of irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, etc.)
- Monitor water usage and ensure proper distribution across fields and greenhouses
- Learn to identify leaks, clogs, or inefficiencies and how to resolve promptly
- Assist with seasonal irrigation setup and breakdown
Machinery & Equipment Maintenance
- Operate and perform routine maintenance on farm equipment (tractors, mowers, tillers, pumps, etc.)
- Assist with basic repairs and coordinate major repairs when needed
- Maintain tools and equipment in safe working condition
- Track maintenance schedules and report equipment issues
Greenhouse & Facility Maintenance
- Under supervision, maintain greenhouse structures including plastic, ventilation systems, fans, and climate controls
- Assist with environmental system monitoring (temperature, humidity, airflow)
- Under supervision, repair benches, irrigation lines, and structural components
- Support sanitation and preventative maintenance programs
General Farm Support
- Assist other teams as needed with operational tasks
- Support construction or installation projects (e.g., fencing, shade structures, irrigation expansion)
- Follow all safety procedures and farm protocols
Qualifications
Prior experience in maintenance, construction, landscaping, or farm operations preferred, but not essential to apply
Basic mechanical skills and familiarity with tools and equipment is an asset
Basic knowledge of irrigation systems is desirable
Ability to operate or willingness to learn farm machinery
Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Ability to take direction and follow through
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Work Environment
Ability to lift 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks
Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
Frequent bending, lifting, standing, and walking
Compensation & Benefits
Part-time position (Up to 30 hours/week)Hourly range $18-$22 per hour depending on experience
Sick Leave - Up to 40 hours per year
Work Schedule
The work schedule will generally be three-four days per week, but may vary based on seasonal needs.
If this job sounds right for you, please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]
Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
