Farm Director

Saratoga Springs, an Agrihood community of more than 4,400 homes in Green Cove Springs, Florida, is seeking a dedicated, full-time Farm Director. This is a unique opportunity for you to be part of the agrihood community movement and a friendly, hardworking team. We pride ourselves in creating a positive, enjoyable work environment. The farmers are hired by Vesta, the company that manages the HOA and Farm, and work in conjunction with Convivial Foodscapes, LLC.

We grow 10 acres of organic vegetables and fruit that are distributed to residents through a retail Farm Share program. In addition to overseeing production, we also maintain multiple community gardens and a Farm Store.

Responsibilities

• Manage farm crew and all aspects of vegetable, fruit and herb production, including but not limited to seeding, planting, pest, disease and fertility management, field cultivation, irrigation, installation and repairs, harvesting and post harvest handling, record keeping, upholding product, food safety standards, etc.
• Manage the year-round Farm Share program, with peak production occurring from October to June.
• Maintain farm infrastructure and landscape with support from contracted vendors, including the cleanliness and orderliness of the store, barn and its surroundings.
• Manage farm purchasing, inventory, and operating budget within established guidelines.
• Foster resident engagement by leading workshops, farm tours, attending farmers markets, and hosting events.
• Provide friendly customer service both in person and by phone
• Practice and foster team spirit and positive, productive working relations with HOA, Developer staff and resident volunteers.
• Assist HOA team with events as needed

Required Qualifications and Skills

Qualified candidates must be able to work in various weather conditions, stand for extended periods of time, and are required to repeatedly lift and move up to 50 lbs. This position also requires occasional nights and weekend work.

• Experience supervising, coaching, and developing farm staff in a positive, accountable work environment.
• At least 4 years of organic vegetable production and farm management experience on a similar or larger scale
• Proven experience independently operating a tractor with various implements.
• Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.
• Demonstrated attention to details, record keeping, and experience building and/or working with efficient systems.
• Carpentry skills, general “fix it” know how, and familiarity with basic tools and equipment maintenance.
• Enthusiasm for local and sustainable agriculture
• Comfortable using point-of-sale systems, inventory software, and Microsoft Office.
• A problem solver with a focus on continuous improvement, who is always learning, open to feedback and takes action as required
• Driver's license required to fulfill job duties.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Experience in a highly visible leadership position
• Experience growing and managing production in a subtropical or tropical environment
• Certifications: GAP training, Pesticide applicator license
• Retail experience
• Knowledge of fruit production