Having lived in both and homesteading, including livestock, I can say there are pros and cons to both. Maine overall has lower property taxes, but Vermont will abate property taxes for your primary residence based on income. Vermont has a larger, more established farm to table scene if you are looking for side income. Very northern VT is much less regulated than almost anywhere in the country; however, some of the laws have been shifting in VT rapidly in ways that native Vermonters likely would not have chosen. There are many places in Maine where you can't build a second house on your land, so it is worth speaking with the Code Officer before buying a parcel. Overall, I have found the cost of living is lower in Maine, but I miss the inexpensive and amazing local food in VT. Happy to chat more about this if you want to DM me.

Check out the employment listings for the State of Maine. Job duties and salaries are listed in the postings. You can also call the hiring manager in the listing, and they can answer any specific questions you have. There are several seasonal jobs of this variety listed around this time every year.

And are surprised to find the store closed on arrival, since the roads weren't that greasy.

Incorrect. Groundwater withdrawal permits are required. In addition, those sources are regulated for contaminants, not just impacts to the aquifer and neighboring wells.