Cooperative for Human Services, Inc: Part-time Farm Activities Coordinator Position

Company: Cooperative for Human Services, Inc.

Salary: $22/hour plus benefits

Location: North Reading, MA

About Us:
Founded in 1981, the Cooperative for Human Services, Inc., is a multi-service organization that provides residential services, independent living supports, and guardianship services for people with intellectual and other related disabilities. Our mission is to empower, support, and expand the knowledge, skills, and natural capacities of the people we serve to direct and live full and meaningful lives within their community.  

Our mission at the farm is to encourage healthy and whole lifestyles by eating well, exercising, socializing, learning, and connecting with nature. We offer activities and games, small animal therapy, fresh produce and eggs to bring home, a beautiful landscape to explore, farm animals and crops to learn about, and a place to foster social interactions.

Job Summary:
We are seeking a passionate and hands-on Farm Activities Coordinator to assist in creating a safe, healthy, and enjoyable space for all visitors to the farm. The Farm Activities Coordinator will assist in maintaining our farm's operations while developing and implementing engaging activities for individuals with disabilities. This part-time, year-round role (24 hours per week) requires flexibility, including occasional weekend coverage to effectively perform the essential functions of the role. The ideal candidate will have experience with farm animals, crops, and activity planning, as well as a strong interest in working with individuals with developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the care of farm animals and vegetable gardens, including feeding, monitoring health, planting, weeding, and harvesting.

  • Plan and implement engaging farm-based activities tailored to participants’ interests and abilities, including crafts, cooking, and physical movement programs.

  • Facilitate small and large group programs that promote learning, social engagement, and skill development.

  • Escort and support program participants in various farm-related tasks and activities.

  • Maintain inventory of activity supplies and ensure the farm environment is safe, welcoming, and accessible.

  • Communicate professionally with participants, families, guardians, and other stakeholders.

  • Support organizational safety policies to maintain a secure and inclusive environment.

  • Serve as a positive role model for participants, staff, and the community.

Requirements:

  • Experience in activity planning, particularly in crafting, cooking, and physical movement.

  • Experience or strong interest in farming, gardening, and animal care.

  • Previous experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities is a plus.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and work outdoors in various weather conditions (April–October, primarily outdoors).

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Part-time (24 hours per week), year-round position with the potential for more hours as needed.

  • Flexible schedule

  • Eligibility for health insurance and accrued time off.  Health insurance begins immediately upon your first day.

  • Opportunity to work in a dynamic, nature-based setting with a meaningful impact on individuals’ lives.

If you are passionate about farm life, community engagement, and inclusive programming, we’d love to hear from you!

Pay: From $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 403(b) matching

  • Dental insurance

  • Employee assistance program

  • Flexible schedule

  • Flexible spending account

  • Health insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Paid time off

  • Parental leave

  • Retirement plan

  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

24 hours per week, flexible Monday-Friday (three 8 hour days is preferred), weekend availability required occasionally to help cover shifts.

To Apply:

To apply, send a couple of paragraphs talking about your related experience and interest in the position and a resume to cpeden-spear@cooperativeforhs.org.  Any questions about the position can also be sent to that email.