Assistant Farm Manager

Blandford Nature Center•Grand Rapids, MI

2d•$0 - $49,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Farm Manager is the lead in agricultural outreach and education efforts of the Blandford Nature Center (BNC) farm. The Assistant Farm Manager will work in collaboration with various team members to support the facilitation of farm-agriculture experiences and programs. The Assistant Farm Manager supervises a mix of seasonal staff, volunteers, and co-supervises farm apprentices with the Farm Manager. Some evenings and weekends are required, especially during the harvest season.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED equivalent
3 years of agricultural experience in mixed vegetable farming using organic practices
2 years of experience in operating farm machinery for vegetable production
1-2 years of experience in supervising teams of employees and volunteers
1-2 years of experience in customer service
Highly collaborative work style; capable of implementing farm production and education program goals
Proven ability in goal setting and achieving those within a strategic vision
Proven ability in daily problem solving using limited resources
Commitment to continuous learning focused on farm improvement
Proficiency with Microsoft office and Google suite
Energetic, flexible and ability to work independently
Excellent reliability and judgement
Projects a professional image internally and externally
Positive role model in attitude and behavior
Must maintain a valid driver’s license
Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, or kneel for extended periods of time
Ability to lift over 50 pounds
Ability to navigate uneven terrain
Ability to work in inclement weather

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Science in related field
2 years of farm manager experience
Experience raising farm animals
Experience with farm education programming

Responsibilities

Lead and implement farm program activities, including curriculum development, facilitating agriculture learning experiences, developing hands-on farming experiences, developing and launching a Farm Apprentice Program, developing pathways to expand fresh food access, and co-creating overall BNC Farm strategy.
Manage farm administration, including contributing to strategic planning, collaborating with other BNC Managers and the Marketing and Development Department, planning logistically, seeking opportunities to increase farm revenue and community engagement, and coaching, mentoring, and offering feedback to the farm team.
Support farm technical activities, including executing planting, irrigating, and harvesting of crops, serving as a lead operator, using crop management data for decision-making, assisting in the supervision of crop management, monitoring crop health, operating farm equipment, leading individuals and teams in agricultural functions, leading seasonal employees, and supporting compliance with safety measures.
Provide leadership by collaborating with BNC Managers to oversee partnerships, and supporting fundraising events, seasonal festivals, and tours.