Farm Manager

Job Description: Farm Manager

Reports To: Project Manager

Employment Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Location: Franklin, NC

Start Date: February 2026

About Franklin Farm Hub

Franklin Farm Hub (FFH) is an innovative nonprofit food hub and educational community farm located on a picturesque 94-acre property along the Little Tennessee River at 1024 Lakeside Drive in Franklin, NC. Our mission is to uplift our agricultural community, promote land stewardship, and support local food access through incubation, education, and collaboration.

Our goals address two pressing regional issues, farmland/farmer preservation and food insecurity, by cultivating equitable markets, expanding local food access, and strengthening the economic resilience of Western North Carolina’s farmers.

Our programs include a community farm, food hub, and educational initiatives focused on food and farming.

Position Summary

The Farm Manager will play a pivotal role in overseeing all farming activities on the Franklin Farm Hub property, including managing the community farm program, coordinating agricultural operations, and ensuring the success of the hub's diverse initiatives. This role requires a hands-on leader with a strong background in sustainable farming, land management, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for fostering community and agricultural innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Farm Operations:

• Oversee all daily operations of the farm including land preparation/tillage, custom tractor work, planting, cultivation, harvesting, and crop planning.
• Manage livestock and forest farming projects, ensuring adherence to sustainable practices.
• Maintain and manage farm infrastructure, equipment, supplies, and facilities in collaboration with the Land Stewardship Manager.

Community Farm Program:

• Provide mentorship and technical support to farmers participating in the community farm program.
• Develop curricula and implement trainings and partner programs on sustainable agriculture practices.
• Monitor the progress of program participants and provide feedback to support their growth and success.
• Coordinate and supervise community work days, volunteer groups, and other visitors on the farm in collaboration with FFH team members.

Administrative Duties:

• Develop and manage the farm’s operational plan including design, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and budget in coordination with leadership.
• Track and report on farm activities including farmer case management, program outcomes, and key metrics.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and agricultural regulations.
• Provide input on grant project narratives as needed and submit reports in a timely manner.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with the Project Manager and other team members to align farm activities with the hub’s broader mission.
• Assist with food hub activities as needed - e.g. sorting, packing, distribution.
• Collaborate with the team on other educational opportunities and events.
• Build relationships with local farmers, organizations, and stakeholders to foster partnerships and resource-sharing opportunities.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agronomy, environmental science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 3 years of experience in sustainable farming, farm management, or a related role.
• Knowledge of regenerative agriculture practices and farm business operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining farm equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physical labor.

Preferred:

• Experience with community farm, farm incubation, or mentorship programs.
• Familiarity with educational farm programming, CSA, and u-pick activities.
• Understanding of sustainable agricultural practices, such as GAP or organic certification.
• A strong commitment to cultural inclusion.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.

Work Environment

This position involves both field and office work. Field work requires physical stamina and the ability to lift up to 50lbs. The Farm Manager should be able to work outside, year-round in all weather conditions; safely operate heavy machinery and implements; and have the ability to walk on uneven terrain. The Farm Manager should feel comfortable working both in a collaborative, mission-driven office setting and independently on the farm.

Compensation

The salary range is $40,000-$50,000 annually, commensurate with experience. Benefits include: paid time off, paid holidays, mileage reimbursement.

To Apply

Send a cover letter and résumé to info@franklinfarmhub.org with the subject line: Farm Manager Application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Application Deadline: January 31, 2026.

Franklin Farm Hub is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees and partners feel valued and supported.

Pay: $40,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $50,000