Agriculture Manager II (Yuma, AZ)

Under the direction of the Center Director, this position is responsible for the comprehensive management and operation of the Valley Farm Experimental Station. The Manager provides leadership and oversight of farm personnel and ensures the effective execution of all operational activities in support of research and Extension programs.

The role requires the application of professional knowledge, experience, and technical expertise to guide farm staff and coordinate farming operations in accordance with best practices for research-based agricultural production. The Manager ensures that all activities align with institutional standards, research protocols, and the mission of the Yuma Agricultural Center.

Key responsibilities include strategic and budget planning, resource allocation, and support of community and stakeholder development initiatives. The Manager represents the Experimental Station to specialty groups, industry partners, and external stakeholders, fostering strong relationships with both internal research faculty and external industry clientele.

This position also encompasses the development and administration of contract agreements, promotion and marketing of the Experimental Station’s research services, and coordination of resources to meet programmatic needs. The Manager plays a critical role in advancing the Center’s mission while safeguarding the operational integrity, productivity, and well-being of the Valley Farm Experimental Station and its personnel.

This position will require working evenings and weekends during the peak lettuce season.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

• Plans, schedules, and directs daily and seasonal farm operations, including task assignment and operational decision‑making in support of research activities.
• Conducts and supports pest monitoring efforts and provides pest management recommendations consistent with integrated pest management practices.
• Maintains accurate historical farm records and exercises sound judgment in day‑to‑day farm management to ensure efficient, compliant operations.
• Manage the Valley Farm by providing leadership and guidance to the farms group composed of research scientists, support staff, contracted farm labor, and visiting industrial clientele.
• Manage both full time staff and contracted support labor force.
• Responsible for daily farm operation decisions, safe-guarding farm's resources, infrastructure, and personnel support.
• Coordinates staff activities to meet operational and research farming needs, ensuring appropriate allocation and utilization of farm resources.
• Manages farm‑based financial activities, including monitoring expenses and revenues to support the Center’s self‑sustaining operational model.
• Oversees resource management and farm product sales to optimize revenue generation while maintaining operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
• Serves as a primary liaison with internal research faculty and external industry clientele to support high‑quality research outcomes and operational effectiveness.
• Directs and instructs support staff to maintain efficient work standards, clear communication, and consistent delivery of research‑related services.
• Fosters strong internal and external partnerships to advance the farm’s mission, support collaborative research goals, and promote the Center’s long‑term self‑sustainability.
• Develops and fosters a collaborative team environment by building staff expertise and enhancing technical and professional skills.
• Manages employee performance by setting clear expectations, providing ongoing feedback, and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Oversees staffing activities, including performance evaluation support, employee recommendations, and participation in recruitment and hiring processes to ensure effective workforce development.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of farming practices regarding an array of local and nonlocal crops.
• Skilled in agricultural research farming techniques and commercial farming.
• Evidence of ability to supervise and evaluate employees.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Demonstrated technical skill competence.
• Ability to perform job duties under extreme environmental conditions.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.