As the Farm Manager and Educator, you will collaborate with the Executive Director and other farm personnel on all aspects of our regenerative farming operations including: crop planning, planting, harvesting, and sales; community garden and greenhouse management; maintenance and repair of well pumps, small machinery, tractors, and facilities; supplies ordering, and also agriculture and environmental curriculum development and community class instruction. Your kind and patient leadership skills will be crucial in supporting our diverse and underserved clients and generous volunteers at the heart of our organizational purpose.

DUTIES

– Collaborate with the Executive Director and farm personnel on planning annual crops, programs, and classes.
– Physically implement strategic plans to achieve successful regenerative crop production from seed to irrigation, from harvest to bale, and from storage to sale
– Co-manage all aspects of the organization’s farm operations, including facilities and equipment procurement, maintenance, and minor repairs, and Integrated Pest Management, irrigation, greenhouse management
– Give training and equipment orientation to new growers and support their success
-Develop partnerships with local businesses and orgs to drive growth and sustainability and to help identify opportunities for improving community-centered programming
– Engage in DEI and anti-harassment curriculum, and OSHA safety trainings as required and follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
– Foster a culture of safety, hygiene, organization, prevention, and continuous improvement
– Positively represent the organization in external meetings, conferences, and events

QUALIFICATIONS

– A bachelor’s degree in horticulture, agronomy, agriculture or related field
– Previous experience in managing farm production and supervising workers
– Fluency in English is required
– Understanding of Middle Rio Grande Valley agricultural challenges

HARD SKILLS

– Skills in agricultural equipment operation, including safety, maintenance, and minor repair: (ie: tractors and implements, mowers, balers, combines, bcs, compressors, power tools, greenhouse ventilation, building facilities structural, plumbing, electrical, etc.)
– Deep knowledge of soil quality and sustainable farming practices (ie: regenerative, permaculture, byodynamic, native/traditional, agroforestry, organic)
– Strong strategic planning skills with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans
– Excellent project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines

SOFT SKILLS

– Exceptional communication skills with the ability to effectively, patiently, and kindly engage with stakeholders at all ages and capacity levels expressing honesty, gratitude, and enthusiasm for the shared work
– Proven ability to lead teams and foster an enjoyable, collaborative, inclusive, and empowering work culture
– Proven ability to develop curriculum and lead hands-on educational events for learners of all ages and capacities
– Ability to negotiate effectively and build consensus among diverse stakeholders
– Experience working with volunteers is a bonus

If you are passionate about the ability of non-profit work to increase public knowledge and involvement in the local food system and want to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive space for aspiring growers to develop their skills, you may be the person for this job.

If you love the rumble of a tractor under your behind and thrive on the crazy weather, hours, and hurry up and wait associated with farming, we invite you to apply for the position of Farm Educator

Women, BIPOC, and members of the LGBTQIA+, immigrant, and disabled community are strongly encouraged to apply. Fluency in a second language is a plus.

Please email  your resume, cover letter, and two references to info@riograndefarm.org. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.