What are the responsibilities and job description for the Crew Chief position at Mook Sea Farm?
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
Salary : $24 - $35