Company description

Located in the heart of Lincoln, Codman Community Farms (CCF) is a 501c3 non-profit founded in 1973 with the mission to operate a working farm that preserves Lincoln’s rural character by highlighting the importance of local farming and local food and inviting community involvement through educational opportunities and events. The farm consists of an 18-acre farmstead complex with historic barns, outbuildings, farm housing, community garden plots, orchard, and fields as well as over 160 acres of privately owned or town-conserved farmland located throughout the towns of Lincoln and Concord. We are located within 1000 feet of the commuter rail station.

Lincoln is a classic New England town with an old-world feel - with a population of only 6000, less than 15 miles from downtown Boston. The town is home to over 80 miles of walking trails and an amazing oasis of woodlands and open farm fields, yet so close to all that Boston has to offer.

Over its 45 years, CCF’s farm programs and community activities have gradually evolved and grown from a seasonal initiative to a year-round production farm that now raises 100% grass-fed Red Devon cattle, pasture-raised livestock including pigs, laying hens, meat chickens, turkeys, and lambs as well as a thriving vegetable market garden. The farm sells directly to consumers through its self-serve Farm Store and produces value-added items in our on-site commercial kitchen.

Job description

The Market Garden Manager oversees all aspects of our two-acre market garden, which includes two high tunnels and a 20’x 64’ heated greenhouse. This position involves managing the production of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as ensuring clean and attractive growing areas and high-quality harvests throughout the season.

Key responsibilities include supervising seasonal farm assistants, coordinating garden volunteer activities, and collaborating closely with the Education Manager to create and deliver educational experiences for our community. The role requires strong leadership, hands-on involvement in daily operations, and a commitment to fostering a learning environment for staff and visitors.

Key Responsibilities:

Vegetable Crop Planning and Daily Management: 60%

• Develop and implement comprehensive vegetable production plans to align with organizational goals.
• Oversee all vegetable and fruit operations, including creating annual crop plans using Tend software, selecting crop varieties, placing seed orders, and managing fieldwork. This encompasses crop care, fertility, pest management, and harvest scheduling.
• Utilize low-tillage systems for managing both permanent and nonpermanent garden beds.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management strategies, including scouting, applying organic pest/disease control measures, releasing beneficial insects, and creating supportive habitats for them when appropriate.
• Manage irrigation systems, including drip and overhead, to ensure optimal crop hydration.
• Oversee high tunnel operations, focusing on the cultivation of trellised tomatoes and other heat-loving crops in summer, as well as winter production in a 16’ x 100’ high tunnel.
• Maintain and repair deer fencing, manage field edges, and ensure clean, organized garden spaces, including mowing and fence line upkeep.
• Maintain and properly service all hand tools and powered equipment with the support of farm staff.
• Identify operational challenges and implement efficient systems to optimize workflow and productivity.

Greenhouse Production Management 5%

• Supervise greenhouse staff to ensure the consistent production of high-quality vegetable, herb, and flower seedlings.
• Oversee all aspects of greenhouse operations, including pest control, cleanliness, and maintaining the interior and exterior spaces.
• Develop and implement seedling production plans based on market demand and historical sales trends.
• Establish and oversee the greenhouse production schedule, including tasks related to seeding, propagation, and preparing seedlings for transplanting.
• Manage the sales and production of retail seedlings during the spring season.
• Keep accurate and up-to-date records
• Oversee a small-scale microgreen production system, handling everything from seeding and harvesting to washing and packaging.

Harvesting and Retail Sales 10%

• Collaborate with the Farm Manager or Farm Store Manager to establish daily/weekly harvest schedules that ensure optimal produce quantities for the store, balancing harvest efficiency, product freshness, and sales volume needs.
• Lead and participate in the harvesting, washing, and packing of crops, including bunching and preparing items for retail sales.
• Accurately log and track harvest yield data to monitor production and optimize future planning.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area, adhering to food safety standards to ensure a safe environment for processing and packaging.

Flower Production and Planning 5%

• Develop a comprehensive flower production plan in collaboration with farm staff, focusing on both U-pick and in-house bouquet production (this is an evolving enterprise).
• Identify, select, and order seeds to support the execution of the production plan.

Managing Staff 10%

• Manage a team of 3 staff members, plus volunteers and interns, creating daily work schedules and task lists
• Train staff as needed in all aspects of vegetable operations
• Communicate clearly, positively, openly and effectively with staff and management
• Coordinate daily/weekly volunteer opportunities with individuals and groups in close collaboration with the Education, Community Outreach and Marketing Manager.
• Manage, teach, and work alongside volunteers - as schedule allows

Education 5-10%

• In collaboration with the Education, Community Outreach and Marketing Manager, assist in developing and leading educational programs and workshops on CCF’s sustainable farming practices.
• Host farm tours and events to educate the public and community about composting and no-till farming methods.
• Collaborate with local schools or organizations to create hands-on learning opportunities.

Requirements & Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of no-till vegetable farming principles, with at least two years of relevant experience.
• Strong expertise in managing and maintaining flower gardens.
• Leadership and teaching experience in a farm setting is preferred.
• Proven ability to manage and teach groups in a farm environment is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and efficiently.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to complete tasks quickly and effectively.
• Proficient in computer programs such as Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Ability to pass a CORI check due to work with children and volunteers.
• Physical ability to repeatedly lift up to 50 lbs.
• Positive attitude, open-mindedness, and strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Passion for farming, a love of the outdoors, and a commitment to local, sustainable food production.

Schedule

This position will average 40 hours per week - year-round - with 5 days per week from March through October and fewer hours the rest of the year.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $50,000 - $75,000

Application instructions

Deadline

March 31, 2025