What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Manager – Food for Change Hydroponic Program position at Center For Food As Medicine & Longevity?
About CFAM
The Center for Food as Medicine, Inc. (CFAM) is a NYC-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to evidence-based health and nutrition research, education, and community programming. Our Food for Change initiative operates a growing network of hydroponic tower gardens across South Bronx schools, senior centers, and community institutions — bringing fresh, locally grown produce to neighborhoods that need it most. We are expanding rapidly and looking for a passionate, hands-on Farm Manager to lead and grow this work.
Position Overview
The Farm Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of CFAM's hydroponic tower garden network at various locations in the South Bronx. This is a unique opportunity to combine agricultural expertise with community impact — managing multiple active farm sites, training community members and students, and helping scale a model that is transforming food access in one of New York City's most underserved communities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage daily operations of hydroponic tower garden sites across South Bronx schools, senior centers, and partner locations
- Monitor plant health, nutrient levels, lighting, water systems, and overall grow conditions across all sites
- Troubleshoot and resolve equipment, irrigation, and crop issues in a timely manner
- Coordinate planting schedules, harvests, and produce distribution
- Train and supervise student interns, volunteers, and community participants in hydroponic farming practices
- Build and maintain strong relationships with site partners, including school principals, facility managers, and community organizations
- Track and report on farm performance metrics (yield, plant health, harvest volume)
- Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment; manage procurement and vendor relationships
- Support grant reporting by documenting program outcomes and collecting data
- Assist with the setup and launch of new farm sites as the program expands
- Represent CFAM's Food for Change program at community events, partner meetings, and public engagements
Qualifications
Required:
- Any experience in urban farming, hydroponics, horticulture, or a related field
- Hands-on knowledge of hydroponic systems (tower gardens, NFT, deep water culture, or similar)
- Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple sites simultaneously
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable working with youth, seniors, and diverse community members
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in varying indoor environmental conditions
- Reliable, self-directed, and comfortable working independently in the field
- Commitment to food justice, community health, and CFAM's mission
Preferred:
- Experience working in schools, nonprofits, or community-based organizations
- Bilingual in English and Spanish
- Familiarity with food safety protocols and/or ServSafe certification
- Bachelor's degree in agriculture, environmental science, public health, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Why Join CFAM?
- Be part of a mission-driven team at the forefront of urban agriculture and food-as-medicine programming
- Work in a dynamic, growing nonprofit with real community impact in the South Bronx
- Opportunity to help build and shape an expanding farm network
- Collaborative team culture led by recognized experts in nutrition and public health
- This position begins as a volunteer role, with paid opportunities available as the candidate gains experience and the program grows