DeFeo Family Farm is a small, mission-driven regenerative vegetable farm in Middletown, Maryland. Established in 2022, we grow nutrient-dense, seasonal vegetables for our CSA, online store, and direct sales to local health and educational institutions. Our farm sits at the intersection of soil science, food culture, and community health. We grow vegetables with the belief that great food is both ecological and cultural — that every crop has a story, every recipe has a history, and every shared meal is part of something larger. If you’re inspired by food traditions, seasonal cooking, and the deep connection between land and people, you’ll feel at home here.
Our work blends sustainable farming, public health, and education — with partnerships that support community health outcomes and student engagement. Over the next few years, we plan to expand both production and infrastructure, and we’re looking for a dedicated team member to help us get there.
The farm is owned and operated by Chris and Laura DeFeo. Chris is an educator with a PhD in biochemistry who teaches biology and environmental science. Laura holds a PhD in chemistry and is a certified health coach, serving as lead coach for the Diabetes Prevention Program at Frederick Health. Together, we believe that healthy soil grows healthy plants that nourish healthy people — and that good farming also strengthens the cultural threads that make food meaningful. We’re building a farm that supports all three.
2026 Farm Lead Position Summary
We’re hiring a Farm Lead for the 2026 season (March–November) to work closely with Chris (farmer/owner) in executing the daily production, systems, and growth of the farm. This is a full-time seasonal role for a skilled grower who takes pride in high-quality work and values efficiency, organization, and clear communication. The ideal candidate has prior experience on a diversified vegetable farm and can confidently move through daily operations with increasing independence after learning our systems.
At DeFeo Family Farm, your work will touch every stage of the growing cycle—from greenhouse propagation and transplanting to harvest, wash/pack, CSA preparation, market sales, and infrastructure projects. You’ll help refine and strengthen our production systems and uphold a professional standard for quality, consistency, and care. You will also represent the farm at farmers’ markets, engaging warmly with customers and sharing the story and values behind the food we grow.
There is potential for this position to extend into the winter months or transition into a year-round role. This is a meaningful opportunity for someone who wants to develop as a grower and leader, contribute to a mission-driven regenerative farm, and play an active part in shaping how the farm expands in the coming years.
Responsibilities
Execute daily fieldwork: planting, weeding, bed prep, trellising, harvesting
Maintain irrigation schedule
Participate in CSA packing, deliveries, and one weekly farmers market
Maintain clean, organized, and food-safe workspaces
Support infrastructure projects and light equipment maintenance
Assist with summer interns, part-time help, or student volunteers
Keep simple records (harvest logs, seeding notes, supplies)
Other duties typical of a small, diversified vegetable farm
Schedule
Tuesday-Saturday schedule, with seasonal variation.
Expect approximately 45–50 hours per week during peak summer months, with fewer hours in spring and fall.
Typical workdays run 7:30 AM–4:30 PM. Start and end times may adjust slightly with daylight and weather conditions.
Required Qualifications
1-3 seasons of experience on a production vegetable farm
Ability to work independently and maintain a steady, efficient pace once familiar with farm systems
Able to lift 50 lb and work full days outdoors in all weather conditions
Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle
Strong attention to detail; notices problems early and communicates clearly
Efficient, dependable, and organized in managing time and priorities
Passionate about soil health, good food, and community-building
Interest in building toward greater responsibility, year-round employment, and leadership over time
Compensation & Benefits
$20–$22/hr including on farm private one bed apartment w/one bath and kitchen ($24-26/hr without housing accommodations). Utilities included. Parking for one vehicle.
Unpaid Leave
Weekly farm share and eggs
Supportive, purpose-driven environment focused on skill-building and growth
How to Apply
Email defeofamilyfarm@gmail.com with the following:
Please include a brief introduction about yourself and why you’re interested in our farm. Also, please respond to the following: Our farm sits at the intersection of soil science, food culture, and community health. Which of these three speaks to you most, and why?
Your résumé or list of relevant experiences
Two references (farm-related preferred)
We will conduct a background check too