Job Description
Are you passionate about sustainable agriculture and ready to take the lead on a dynamic organic farm? Valley Harvest Organics is seeking an experienced, hands-on Farm Manager to oversee daily operations, ensure crop health, and lead a dedicated team. Join us in producing high-quality, nutrient-dense vegetables for our local community while championing regenerative soil practices.
We are looking for a strategic thinker who thrives outdoors and combines deep agronomic knowledge with strong leadership. If you are driven by innovation in the field and a deep respect for the land, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.
Responsibility
- Develop and execute comprehensive crop plans from seed to harvest, including planting schedules, irrigation management, pest control, and harvest timing.
- Lead, train, and supervise a diverse team of field workers, crew leaders, and seasonal labor, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and respect.
- Operate and maintain a wide range of farm machinery and irrigation systems, troubleshooting issues to ensure peak operational performance.
- Implement and monitor organic certification standards, keeping meticulous records of inputs, yields, and soil health metrics for compliance.
- Collaborate with the Sales & Distribution team to align production planning with market demand and CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares.
- Manage the farm budget, including procurement of supplies, seeds, and equipment, while optimizing labor costs and operational efficiency.
- Champion continuous improvement in soil fertility through crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting techniques.
Qualification
- Minimum 3-5 years of management experience in commercial organic vegetable production.
- Deep understanding of soil science, plant physiology, pest/disease management, and irrigation design (drip tape, overhead).
- Proven ability to manage and motivate a diverse workforce, with strong conflict resolution and communication skills.
- Experience with farm record-keeping software (e.g., FarmLogs, AgCode) and proficiency in MS Office Suite.
- Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred, with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
- Valid driver's license and a clean driving record; must be willing to obtain a Pesticide Applicator's License if not currently held.
- Physical ability to work in varied weather conditions, walk long distances, lift up to 50 lbs, and remain on your feet for extended periods.