MGR, Farm

Manage, supervise, participate in and track soil management, planting, irrigation, fertilization, crop care, and integrated pest management; application of chemicals, harvesting, and food safety of all crops; recommend and implement operating policies and procedures at the farm level; May travel to other centers to transport materials, equipment. May work at other sites related to the program as needed.

Keep records and prepare farm production reports and prepare and implement budget recommendations; procure supplies and materials needed to support farm and garden operations and facilities maintenance.

Work as liaison with faculty, staff, students and other collaborators at the farm to plan and develop objectives, workflows, and deadlines for farm and garden operations. Assist faculty in conducting classes and research data collection; assist with tours and community outreach at the farm and gardens.

Operate, maintain and repair equipment and facilities used in agriculture and farming, including developing and implementing a preventive maintenance and repair program on equipment and facilities and planning and directing the construction, modification, and repairs of buildings and infrastructure at the farm and gardens.

Train, oversee and supervise interns and other staff and volunteers assigned to assist in the maintenance and management of the farm and gardens, including assisting in training volunteer farm crew and staff.

Other duties as assigned.

Commensurate with experience

High school diploma or equivalent and five years of relevant experience managing an agricultural operation and supervising staff. Appropriate college coursework or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required number of years of experience.

Knowledge of:

• Crop Science theory, methods and practices.

• Agronomic and horticulture practices including, but not limited to plant nutrition, soil management, composting, integrated pest management, planting, irrigation, harvest, and food safety.

• Common techniques used in the care of crops organically.

• Understanding of symptoms and care of crop disease and injury.

• Safe equipment operation, equipment maintenance, and safety rules associated with operation of farm equipment.

• Supervision and training techniques and practices.

• University, state, city, county and federal rules and regulations applicable to area.

• Basic computer applications.

• Experiential learning and Extension

• Record-keeping and data collection techniques for farm management.

Skills and Abilities to:

• Lead a team to effectively plan and operate a sustainable small farm with diverse production techniques, including a greenhouse, annual and perennial systems, and aeroponics.
• Think critically and problem solve in a highly dynamic and socially diverse setting.

• Follow instructions and perform acceptable farming practices.

• Communicate and deal effectively with faculty, students, administration, farmers, ranchers, state and federal agencies, and the public.

• Have hand/eye coordination and manual and physical dexterity to safely and effectively operate and maintain farm facility, equipment, and tools, and maneuver around a farm.

• Understand best management practices and keep up to date on latest efforts to improve the sustainability of management efforts for agricultural production.

• Develop food safety protocols for field, harvest and post-harvest handling.

• Think creatively and work collaboratively with other members of the farm team to ensure a positive and interdisciplinary learning environment for sustainable agriculture and food systems.

• Recognize symptoms of crop illness, disease, or injury and be able to treat effectively.

• Manage maintenance and record keeping for farm, facility, equipment and supplies.

• Travel, when required for meetings, training, transportation crops, or supplies and equipment.

• Assist with supervision and training of assigned staff.

• Operate computer to maintain records.

• Work as team member and foster a cooperative work environment.

• Experience with Organic certification a plus.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Optional: Share examples of farm plans or management documents that demonstrate your capacity to handle diverse growing systems.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.