Farm Lead

Job Description

The Farm Lead will be responsible for the development and management of Apple Seeds’ 2-acre teaching farm in Central Arkansas. This role ensures that farm operations effectively support educational programming, produce distribution, events, and community involvement opportunities. 

Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement year-round crop production using sustainable practices
• Lead the development of the garden, high tunnel, greenhouse, orchard, irrigation systems, and supporting infrastructure at new site in Central Arkansas
• Oversee the ongoing care and maintenance of grounds, buildings, and infrastructure
• Align planting and harvest schedules with program, event, and donation needs
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards (GAP)
• Lead produce harvesting, packing, and distribution for donations, programs, and events
• Supervise interns and volunteers
• Plan and facilitate regular volunteer workdays
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and safety-oriented work environment 
• Develop monthly and weekly work plans
• Maintain systems for tracking production, harvest data, and outputs
• Utilize designated budgets and financial tracking systems for purchases and resource allocation according to Apple Seeds policies
• Ensure proper maintenance of tools, equipment, and vehicles
• Serve as a welcoming and knowledgeable representative of Apple Seeds
• Lead and welcome volunteers and other community members for opportunities such as tours and public workshops
• Support partnerships with schools, universities, and community organizations
• Contribute to fundraising events and organizational initiatives

Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in sustainable agriculture, farm management, or related field
• Demonstrated knowledge of crop production, soil health, and organic practices
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
• Proficiency in Google Suite and/or Microsoft Office
• Commitment to Apple Seeds’ mission and values of the organization

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supervising staff, interns, or volunteers
• Experience working in nonprofit or educational settings
• Experience managing grant-related reporting or program outputs
• Familiarity with food safety protocols (e.g., GAP certification, Servsafe certification)

Additional Job Requirements:

• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 50 lbs. and operating equipment
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate farm vehicles and equipment
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends
• Agree to and pass a criminal background check

Hours:

• Full time, 40 hours per week
• Apple Seeds standard work hours are 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. The Farm Lead will frequently have an adjusted work schedule based on weather and volunteer availability
• Occasional early mornings and evenings will be expected. 2-3 Saturday mornings per month (March-October) expected to facilitate garden volunteers

Benefits:

• Starting annual salary of $40,000
• Full-time employees are eligible for health insurance after 90 days, with Apple Seeds covering 50% of the premium. Additional family members can be added at extra cost. Vision and Dental Benefits are included
• SIMPLE IRA with a 3% employer match
• Benefits include 15 days of paid vacation/personal leave, 14 days of holiday vacation, and up to 6 days of paid sick leave annually