Farm Hand Silent Thunder Farms

Employment type: Full-Time
Application Due Date: February 28, 2027

Job Description

SilentThunder Farms Chestnut Orchard

Farm Hand

Position Purpose

The Orchard & Farm Employee is responsible for the establishment, operation, maintenance, and long-term success of the SilentThunder Farms Chestnut Orchard and related farm operations.

Employee reports directly to the SilentThunder Farms Manager and is responsible for the day-to-day management of orchard operations, farm infrastructure, equipment, contractors, and execution of the annual operating plan.

Employee will work in coordination with approved consultants to implement the SilentThunder Chestnut Strategy and execute approved agronomic recommendations. This is an at-will position.

Orchard Operations
- Demonstrates exceptional listening skills & follow direction effectively
- Execute the annual orchard operating plan
- Establish & maintain a healthy, productive commercial chestnut orchard
- Oversee irrigation, fertilization, mowing, pruning, weed control, pest management, disease management, harvest, and tree replacement
- Monitor orchard health and implement timely corrective actions
- Collect and maintain tree growth, mortality, yield, and production records
- Maintain current orchard maps, inventories, and planting records
- Coordinate orchard activities with approved consultants
- Recommend improvements that increase orchard productivity, quality, and efficiency

Orchard Farm Operations

Operate & oversee day-to-day farm operations
Operate & maintain tractors, skid steers, sprayers, trucks, trailers, mowers, and all farm equipment
Maintain irrigation systems, fencing, drainage, roads, buildings, utilities, and farm infrastructure
Schedule & document preventative maintenance
Coordinate contractors, vendors, and service providers
Maintain inventory of equipment, parts, chemicals, fertilizers, and supplies
Maintain required pesticide, fertilizer, and operational records (if applicable)
Maintain a clean, organized, efficient, and safe farm operation

Industry Development
- Coordinate with consultants & suppliers, if requested

Participate in Company-approved continuing education, if requested
Participate in industry conferences, if requested
Recommend operational improvements supported by measurable results

Qualifications

Orchard, vineyard, nursery, or commercial farming experience preferred
Knowledge of irrigation systems, soil fertility, integrated pest management, and orchard production systems preferred
Experience operating and maintaining agricultural equipment
Strong organizational and communication skills
Michigan/Illinois Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain), if applicable
Ability to perform physical work outdoors throughout all seasons and safely lift/ carry, and load materials weighing up to 60lbs on a regular basis without assistance
Valid Driver’s License; CDL preferred or ability to obtain, if required
Willingness to travel between Michigan & Illinois farm locations, as needed