Job Posting: Farm Production Manager

As Farm Production Manager, you will develop and implement a production plan to support the Farm Gate Crate initiative and other produce markets utilizing the growing spaces at both Five Acres Farm and the Cline Agri-Health Centre, seedling production space in Cassidy and at VIU’s Paine Campus. This will include developing production plans for the season, coordinating the purchase of supplies, and working with staff to integrate production activities with various farm groups. This role will be responsible for vegetable production, maintaining equipment and the physical production spaces across the two farms and greenhouse. This role involves heavy field work for growing and harvesting crops over the 2023 season. Hours are flexible based on the growing season.

Key Responsibilities:

• Responsible for all aspects of crop production including: seeding, planting, daily watering/water management, weeding, nutrient management, harvesting, storage and packing of produce.

• Provide on-site mentorship and support for various programs using the farm sites, assist with training and orientation of field supervisors, Field Support Mentor-Education Coordinator.

• Plan and execute a farm plan for the season including planting calendar, coordination of purchase of supplies, working with staff to identify additional resources for the farm to support volunteers and program participants, etc.

• Analyze existing operations, crops, staff, and financial documents and recommend improvements with feedback from Field Mentor & Marketing Distribution Coordinator

• Prepare plans and schedules for planting and harvesting and ensure Field Mentor & Supervisors understand expectations.

• Work with Field Supervisors and Field Support Mentor to execute production plans.

• Visit the different locations to inspect and manage crops, and also perform tests on soil and water.

• Ensure seeds, fertilizers, and other supplies are regularly restocked.

• Ensure growing practices meet organic standards.

• Identify equipment in need of repair, maintenance and replacement and coordinate the best plan of action to address equipment issues, within budget and with consultation with Farm Mentors.

• Work with farm management team to develop the farms as platforms for education and hands-on experiences in a community food system (workshops, rentals, events).

• Work as a part of the farm team to grow a successful harvest.

• Help harvest, wash, sort and prepare produce as needed for distribution to the Farm Gate Crate, farmer’s markets and direct sales.

• Participate in events, tours and volunteer days hosted at the community farms.

• Become knowledgeable in the farm’s activities and programs and be involved in sharing the work of Growing Opportunities Farm Community Co-op in our community

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2-3 years farm production/ management experience

• Minimum educational level: Certificate/Diploma from a College or CEGEP

• Direct coordination experience with CSA programs

• Direct small scale agriculture seedling production, growing, harvest

• Non profit experience

• Excellent computer skills (Excel, social media platforms)

• Valid Driver’s License, Class 4 an asset

• Fluent in English

• Excellent computer skills

• Keen interest in local food production and building community projects

• Passion for working with a diversity of people of all skill-levels and backgrounds

• Reliable and responsible

• Excellent communication and organizational skills

• Supervisory experience

• Knowledge of vegetable production

• Experience training or working with volunteers

Compensation

$21 to $25/hour, depending on experience

How to Apply

Please send resume and cover letter to growingopportunities@gmail.com with subject line: "Application for Farm Production Manager" no later than Jan 27, 2023.

Thank you for your interest in joining us in the field! We look forward to an excellent season.