Company description

About Crabtree Farms
At Crabtree Farms of Chattanooga, we are passionate about sustainable agriculture, and the power of locally grown food. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Clifton Hills neighborhood, just outside of downtown Chattanooga, this 22-acre urban farm has been a beacon of sustainable farming practices and a hub for community development since its inception.

Crabtree’s unique approach to urban farming and community building was seeded in 1998 through an innovative partnership between local visionaries and the City of Chattanooga. Over the years, the farm has evolved and expanded, but the core values have remained steadfast. Today, Crabtree Farms is a thriving, multifaceted organization that encompasses not only sustainable agriculture but also educational programs, community outreach, and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Job description

Terms: Full-time, hourly, $18.50 - $20/hour

Work Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday, 8:00am - 4:30pm (flexible on hours)

Reports to: Director of Farm Programs

Position Overview:

The Crop Production Manager is a key member of the Farm Programs team. This role is responsible for managing field preparations, crop production, and harvesting operations. The role assists the Director of Farm Programs with produce donations and distribution. This position leads volunteers, workshares, and interns in farm tasks. The Manager will ensure that farm operations support community food access initiatives as stated in the Strategic Plan. The Manager will also contribute to educational programming and landscaping to help ensure that the Farm is a welcoming space for the community.. 

Key Responsibilities:

Crop Production Management: Oversee crop production for distribution to our community partners and for markets. Plan crop schedules, prepare fields using regenerative soil-building practices, oversee pest and disease management, and manage harvest and post-harvest operations. 

Team Leadership: Lead farm production and distribution employees, volunteers, workshares, and interns in farm tasks, ensuring a positive and educational experience. Provide guidance on safe work practices, vegetable growing techniques, and field preparation. Plan weekly tasks and goals for the crop production team.

Food Donation and Sales: Assist Director of Farm Programs in coordination of food distribution for donations and wholesale accounts. Attend or schedule staff and Emerging Farmers to attend farmers markets.

Recordkeeping: Maintain accurate records for crop production and distribution. Provide monthly updates and progress reports to the Director of Farm Programs.

Collaboration: Work closely with the Community Food Access Coordinator to offer support for participants in our Emerging Farmers Program. 

Health & Safety: Follow all health and safety guidelines for food production and handling. Ensure a clean and safe working environment.

Social Media & Communication: Contribute to social media by posting updates on crop availability and market information. Send crop availability lists to the newsletter coordinator.

Team Participation: Attend weekly team meetings and support fundraising and community events as needed. Assist in teaching field trips, workshops, public programming. Assist team with landscaping needs.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of farming experience, with a focus on organic practices, pest management, and sustainable farming techniques.
• Must be proficient in the use of and maintenance of tractors and implements.
• Experience leading teams, including volunteers, interns, and workshares.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse group of people.
• Physical ability to perform farm tasks, including lifting, bending, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Experience with project management and a proactive, problem-solving attitude.
• Proficiency in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets) and willingness to learn new software.
• A passion for sustainable farming and Crabtree Farms' mission.
• Being bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.
• Produce Safety Certification (This can be obtained while during the first 90 days of employment)

Work Environment:

• Weekend work required with occasional evenings, some work on holidays may be required
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and indoors for administrative tasks.
• Must attend weekly team meetings and participate in annual events.

Benefits:

• Healthcare benefits at 50% cost match
• Access to fresh, seasonal produce
• Paid holidays and up to 10 days paid time off
• SIMPLE IRA with employer match

To Apply:

• Fill out the form on our website for the “Crop Production Manager” position. You will need to upload a pdf of your Cover Letter & Resume.
• For any questions or if you encounter any issues, please email director@crabtreefarms.org

Crabtree Farms is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Company provides equal opportunity to all its  employees and applicants for employment, ensures nondiscriminatory treatment in all aspects of  personnel policy and procedure, and maintains compliance with applicable laws and regulations.  

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $15-20/hr

Application instructions

If you are not registered, you'll be prompted to do so. Don't worry, it's free!

Deadline

no deadline