Farm Director- Saratoga Springs (HOA)

VESTA PROPERTY SERVICES INC•Green Cove Springs, FL

11d•$80,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

Vesta Property Services is hiring a full-time Farm Director for Saratoga Springs, an agrihood community of more than 4,400 homes in Green Cove Springs, Florida. The farm grows 10 acres of organic vegetables and fruit for distribution to residents through a retail Farm Share program, and also maintains multiple community gardens and a Farm Store. Farmers are employed by Vesta, which manages the HOA and farm, and work in conjunction with Convivial Foodscapes, LLC. The Farm Director plans and oversees the organization’s daily operations to help ensure its goals and objectives are achieved. The role manages farm staff and production, the year-round Farm Share program, farm facilities and budget, and resident engagement. The position is based at Saratoga Springs and requires work in varied weather, extended periods of standing, repeated lifting and moving of up to 50 pounds, and occasional night and weekend work.

Requirements

Experience supervising, coaching, and developing farm staff in a positive, accountable work environment.
At least 4 years of organic vegetable production and farm management experience on a similar or larger scale.
Proven ability to independently operate a tractor with various implements.
Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.
Attention to detail, record-keeping skills, and experience building and/or using efficient systems.
Carpentry skills, general repair know-how, and familiarity with basic tools and equipment maintenance.
Enthusiasm for local and sustainable agriculture.
Comfort using point-of-sale systems, inventory software, and Microsoft Office.
Problem-solving orientation and commitment to continuous improvement, learning, openness to feedback, and taking action.
Driver’s license required to fulfill job duties.
Ability to work in various weather conditions, stand for extended periods, and repeatedly lift and move up to 50 pounds.
Availability for occasional night and weekend work.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a highly visible leadership position.
Experience growing and managing production in a subtropical or tropical environment.
GAP training.
Pesticide applicator license.
Retail experience.
Knowledge of fruit production.

Responsibilities

Plan and oversee daily farm operations to achieve goals and objectives.
Manage the farm crew and vegetable, fruit, and herb production, including seeding, planting, pest and disease management, fertility management, field cultivation, irrigation, installation and repairs, harvesting, post-harvest handling, record keeping, and food safety and product standards.
Manage the year-round Farm Share program, with peak production from October through June.
Maintain farm infrastructure and landscaping with support from contracted vendors, including the cleanliness and orderliness of the store, barn, and surrounding areas.
Manage farm purchasing, inventory, and operating budget within established guidelines.
Encourage resident engagement by leading workshops and farm tours, attending monthly farmers markets, and hosting events.
Provide friendly customer service in person and by phone.
Promote team spirit and positive, productive working relationships with POA and developer staff and resident volunteers.
Assist the HOA team with events as needed.