Land Stewardship Manager

Job Description: Land Stewardship 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 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 Land Stewardship Manager will oversee the management and care of the land on Franklin Food Hub's 94-acre tract, including the stewardship of native flora and fauna, trail maintenance, invasive species control, and collaboration with the farm team and conservation partners. This role blends ecological management with public engagement, ensuring the land remains a resource for community education, conservation, and sustainable development.

Key Responsibilities

Land Management:

• Develop and implement land and forest management plans to enhance and preserve native ecosystems, including grasslands, wetlands, and riparian areas.
• Conduct regular field assessments to monitor ecological health and address invasive species.
• Implement restoration projects, including habitat enhancement and erosion control.
• Engage in the following activities as needed: mowing, weed-wacking, invasive species removal, chopping wood, operating heavy equipment, livestock grazing management.
• Manage and maintain infrastructure and mechanical equipment in collaboration with Farm Manager.

Trail Maintenance & Accessibility:

• Design safe, well-maintained trails to balance public access with ecological preservation.
• Monitor and improve signage and wayfinding systems for trails and public use areas.
• Ensure that trails are kept safe and communicate clearly about any potential risks immediately.

Collaboration & Partnerships:

• Work with organizations like Mainspring, Highlands Biological Station, and other conservation partners to identify and execute conservation initiatives.
• Coordinate with local stakeholders to ensure the land is a model of community-driven stewardship.
• Collaborate with Farm Manager and Food Hub Team on shared goals for conservation and food and agricultural projects including education and events.

Volunteer & Community Engagement:

• Recruit, train, and oversee volunteers for stewardship activities such as Trail Clearing Days.
• Lead community outreach programs, such as nature walks, workshops, and conservation education events.

Administrative Duties:

• Develop and manage the farm’s operational plan including design, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and budget in coordination with Farm Manager and leadership.
• Maintain detailed records of land management activities, including GIS mapping and data collection.
• Collaborate with Project Manager to write grant proposals to fund stewardship and conservation projects.
• Develop content for annual reports on stewardship outcomes and conservation successes.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management, ecology, environmental science, or a related field or equivalent professional experience.
• 3 years of experience in land management, conservation, or ecological restoration.
• Proficiency with GIS tools for mapping and analysis.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining land management equipment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with Appalachian ecosystems and traditional ecological knowledge.
• Experience working with conservation organizations or land trusts.
• Knowledge of and experience with sustainable and ethical land and wildlife management practices.
• Grant writing and fundraising experience.
• 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 Land Stewardship 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, often rugged terrain. The Land Stewardship 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: Land Stewardship 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