Help shape the future of a sustainable dairy farm and creamery!
Cricket Creek Farm is seeking an experienced cheese maker to manage our creamery in all aspects of production of our artisanal, farmstead cheeses. Our portfolio includes pasteurized and raw cow’s milk cheeses of several styles and is distributed throughout the Northeast.
Located in the beautiful Berkshire foothills of Western Massachusetts, our farm milks 25-30 grass-fed cows year-round. Our mixed herd (primarily Jersey and Brown Swiss) is rotationally grazed on 200 acres of pasture during the summer, and fed local hay in the winter. We also raise grass-fed beef cattle, whey-fed pigs, and rose veal. The health and welfare of our animals, as well as of the land, are of primary importance to us.
Our work environment is designed to encourage clear, honest, open and productive communication, and to ensure a comfortable atmosphere for all employees and visitors.
This is a high level leadership position at our farm — we are looking for someone who can take full ownership of this important component of our farm business and effectively partner with other members of farm leadership. You are the eyes and the ears on the ground in our creamery, making sure that food safety protocols are being followed, high quality cheese is being produced, staff are working efficiently, and maintenance issues are being addressed. Looking to jump into a role with room for creativity and big impact on a small farm? Then this might be the role for you!
Responsibilities:
- Work with existing staff in a collaborative team environment, providing leadership and structure in the creamery
- Lead the production of all the cheeses in our current repertoire
- Train new employees in assisting with cheese makes and caring for and processing the cheese
- Follow and direct others in following maintenance and sanitation protocols.
- Troubleshoot inconsistencies with the products as needed.
- Maintain all required records, inventories, recipes and data.
- Effectively prioritize work to ensure cheese management and sanitation responsibilities are completed within their designated schedule.
- Maintain equipment and facilities; troubleshoot, and escalate issues.
- Bring an upbeat and positive attitude, and cultivate that attitude in others. We expect the person in this role to always show up, set a good example, help keep staff on track, and bring positive energy and enthusiasm to work every day.
Requirements:
- At least 2 years of professional cheese making experience, and a love for the science and craft of cheesemaking. Apprenticeship work
- Some management experience.
- Mechanical and problem solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail in regard to safety, sanitation, record keeping, and monitoring of quality.
- HACCP/ Food Safety Plan, or GMP knowledge preferred.
- Demonstrated commitment to food safety and sanitation.
- Ability to remain calm and flexible in a fast-paced and evolving work environment.
Compensation: We provide a salary (commensurate with experience), housing, and some farm-raised food.
Note: Local applicants interested in making cheese with us part time are encouraged to apply or connect with Anna at the email listed below to discuss.
How to apply: Please send a current resume and cover letter to Anna Halpin-Healy, our Senior Farm Manager for Business Operations at anna@cricketcreekfarm.com. First round interviews are conducted by phone/zoom; second round interviews are in person at our farm and creamery.