Crew Chief Full Time NEW

Crew Chief/Assistant Farm Manager

Mook Sea Farm – Walpole, Maine

Mook Sea Farm is seeking a skilled and motivated Assistant Oyster Farm Manager to help lead daily farm operations on the Damariscotta River, Maine. This is a physically demanding, hands-on leadership role suited for someone who thrives on the water, values teamwork, and is committed to producing high-quality shellfish safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Team Leadership

• Oversee daily operations including harvesting, sorting, gear repair, maintenance, and installation, and seasonal activities such as tumbling/grading, raising and winterizing oysters.
• Manage and supervise farm crews to ensure safe, efficient, and productive working conditions.
• Encourage open communication among crew and resolve conflicts appropriately.
• Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Track employee performance, reliability, and leadership potential; support development and address performance issues.

Farm Planning & Execution

• Contribute to annual farm planning with the Farm Manager and execute operational goals.
• Monitor and improve workflow efficiency with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Accurately record farm data and report on progress and outcomes.

Equipment & Vessel Operations

• Safely operate and train others on farm machinery and equipment, including forklifts, conveyors, vessels (up to 40’), winches, cranes/davits.
• Tow, haul, and launch boats safely.
• Navigate vessels in all weather conditions, including low visibility.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to all food safety protocols, including HACCP and Vibrio regulations.
• Enforce company policies related to safety, PPE, sanitation, hygiene, and biosecurity.
• Maintain clean, organized facilities and ensure proper crew training standards.

Monitoring & Reporting

• Track shellfish inventory, growth, health, and overall farm conditions; report concerns promptly.
• Ensure timely thinning, harvesting, and handling procedures are followed.

External Relations

• Represent the farm professionally when interacting with other farmers, regulators, and neighboring landowners.

Additional Duties

• Perform other related tasks as assigned by management

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead teams in a physically demanding, outdoor work environment.
• Experience operating marine and farm equipment (forklift, vessels, winches, etc.).
• Strong understanding of shellfish handling regulations (HACCP and Vibrio preferred).
• First-aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to work safely in all weather conditions.
• Physically capable of standing for long periods and lifting 50 lbs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Highly reliable, professional, and respectful.
• Strong time management skills and ability to follow direction.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a dependable, observant leader who takes initiative and fosters a positive team environment. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, adaptable, and committed to continuous improvement in both people and processes.

Pay: $24.00 – $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person