Farm and Greenhouse Manager

Stony Brook University•Town of Brookhaven, NY

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Farm and Greenhouse Manager is a vital team member responsible for overseeing all aspects of field and greenhouse crop production at the FoodLab site. In addition to technical expertise in organic farming and horticulture, the position requires strong leadership, communication skills, and a desire to engage with a wide range of stakeholders—from students and apprentices to university administrators and the public. The manager will help create a dynamic, safe, and educational environment on the farm while ensuring high standards of crop quality, site maintenance, and programmatic support. This position plays a critical role in connecting farm operations to the broader mission of FoodLab, which includes hosting classes, tours, events, and workforce training initiatives. Incumbent must have ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment and have a commitment to equity, education, and sustainable food systems.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (foreign equivalent or higher).
Three (3) years of full time experience managing a small to mid-scale diversified vegetable or mixed production farm.
Experience supervising staff or volunteers.
Experience with the mechanics of common farm equipment.
Experience working with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and/or digital recordkeeping tools.

Nice To Haves

Experience in greenhouse propagation and climate control systems.
Experience working in public-facing environments, including hosting tours and media coverage.
Experience with Northeast agriculture and local food systems.
Experience with grant-funded or research-based agriculture programs.
Experience with education or workforce training programs.
CPR/First Aid certified.

Responsibilities

Plan and implement sustainable and organic vegetable crop production, including crop production, crop rotation, propagation, transplanting, cultivation, harvest, and post-harvest handling.
Manage greenhouse operations including seedling propagation schedules, temperature/humidity controls, and pest monitoring.
Maintain compliance with USDA organic standards, food safety protocols, and worker safety guidelines.
Create and maintain detailed records for crop inputs, planting/harvest dates, yields, fertility plans, and supply usage.
Order and track seeds, tools, equipment, and supplies; maintain farm inventory and sourcing schedules.
Ensure proper sanitation and handling practices for post-harvest crops.
Perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance of tools, irrigation systems, and machinery.
Develop SOPs, field maps, workflows, and protocols that enhance efficiency and ensure consistency.
Contribute to seasonal planning, long-term site development, and infrastructure projects.
Supervise seasonal farm staff, volunteers, and youth program participants.
Provide hands-on training in organic growing practices, tool usage, food safety, and farm tasks.
Help onboard new staff and ensure adherence to safety protocols and standard procedures.
Collaborate with instructors and program coordinators on curriculum delivery for internships, field classes, and the Taste of the Trades youth program.
Host tours and engage with campus visitors, including VIP guests, donors, and external partners.
Represent FoodLab at university events, conferences, and outreach programs.
Support event logistics including farm prep, signage, produce displays, and vendor/staff coordination.
Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop farm-based demonstration projects and workshops.
Provide produce and visual resources for student projects, public talks, and exhibitions.
Monitor and manage field operations budget in coordination with the Executive Director.
Submit records and reports related to field trials, budgets, or grant-funded initiatives.
Support internal reporting by providing crop records, staff time logs, and program data.
Participate in staff meetings and contribute to FoodLab’s overall strategy and mission.
Other duties or projects as assigned as appropriate to rank and departmental mission.