Company description Farm & Wilderness Foundation (F&W) is a non-profit, educational organization operating eight summer camp programs for children and teens, a family camp, retreat rentals, and a conservation organization.  Encompassing property over 1,500-acres in the Green Mountains of Vermont, F&W programs are rich in adventure, community, and a spirit that fosters individual connections with the natural world.  While each camp and initiative provide unique programs addressing age and interests, all F&W activities are shaped by Quaker principles and the common belief that individuals and communities are strengthened by justice, honesty, self-reliance, diversity, and respect for all persons.  In 2018, F &W joined forces with the Ninevah Foundation to manage the conservation of more than 3,300 acres of land and water in the Lake Ninevah valley.  People of any race, background, religion, sexual orientation, gender, or economic status are encouraged to apply to join our community as campers or staff. Job description

The Opportunity:  We are seeking an experienced farmer and expert team leader to manage all aspects of a small, diverse organic farm while also leveraging the farm as an educational and engagement platform to deliver experiential education opportunities for youth (ages 3-17).  The Farm Director is a keystone position as it holds and directs the balance of agricultural production targets alongside sustainability, resource management, educational and engagement goals.  This is a demanding leadership assignment which requires equal skill and commitment to both the farm and to providing exceptional experiences for our visitors and youth.     

 

The Farm Director enjoys clear and specific oversight of the farm and garden budget, livestock management, dairy program management, haying operations, sugaring operations, farm and garden staff, and the education and development of farm interns.  As such the Farm Director is responsible for ensuring implementation of best practice in production and farm stewardship, coordinating and collaborating on farm stand operations and food donation initiatives.

 

Reporting and Collaboration:  The Farm Director collaborates closely with the Farm and Wilderness Program Team to scale farm resources to manage the additional volume of work throughout the growing season. During the shoulder seasons, the Farm Director identifies and incorporates opportunities with local and regional partners to expand the F&W youth development mission.  This position reports to the Sustainable Resources Director and has one year-round direct report (Garden Manager) and is responsible for hiring and managing the seasonal farm team.

Desired Education and Experience:

• 4+ years experience in the farm/food business, including 4+ years vegetable or livestock production; additional farm retail/business management preferred. Experience operating and maintaining farm equipment is a plus.
• Strategic management of people and resources; farm budgets are around $80,000 - $90,000 (farm and program supplies).
• Familiarity with the Vermont and New England farm network, including strong contact with other growers and producers, or a willingness to cultivate these relationships
• Experience working with a farming non-profit and a range of local food system stakeholders. 
• Experience in running educational or therapeutic farm programs.

 

Compensation and Benefits:

In addition to competitive pay, Farm & Wilderness offers the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team who believe in the power of experiential education.  In support of our staff and their families, we provide comprehensive top-notch benefits and an array of special perks. Full-time, year-round staff can enjoy:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, and a Flexible Spending Account  
• Traditional and Roth 401(k) plan 
• Employer-paid life and AD&D
• Paid vacation and sick time; 12 paid holidays
• Tuition Discount for children enrolled in camp programs
• Housing is available for this position.
• And much more!

Compensation this position is : salaried, varies DOE, $50,000.00 - $60,000.00 Application instructions Deadlineno deadline