Farm Superintendent - Aroostook Farm

University of Maine System • Presque Isle, ME

4h • $65,000 - $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The individual in this position is responsible for managing agricultural and associated operations at Aroostook Farm in Presque Isle, Maine. The farm provides facilities and staff support for research directed by faculty scientists of the University of Maine Experiment Station, instructional and experimental programs for students in agriculture, and some educational programs of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. The incumbent is responsible for arranging and conducting fields and other farm work, as well as arranging and conducting equipment and infrastructure management (maintenance, repairs, and replacement). Typical hiring range for this position is $65,000 to $70,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Complete Job Description

About the University:
The University of Maine is a community of more than 11,900 undergraduate and graduate students, and 2,500 employees located on the Orono campus, the regional campus in Machias, and throughout the state. UMaine is a land, sea and space grant university, and maintains a leadership role as the University of Maine System's flagship institution. UMaine is the state's public research university and a Carnegie R1 top-tier research institution, dedicated to providing excellent teaching, research and service for Maine, the nation and the world. More information about UMaine is at umaine.edu.

Requirements

• Typically has the education associated with a B.S. degree in agriculture or related field and at least five years of relevant professional experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in farm operation and farm management experience with crops, and forage management. This includes operating heavy farm equipment such as tractors, plows, pesticide sprayers, and other implements.
• Demonstrated experience working in small teams and supervising farm workers.
• Experience with farm equipment maintenance and repair
• Proven proficiency in basic carpentry and maintenance, including the ability to repair fences, gates, outbuildings, and other farm infrastructure using a variety of hand and power tools
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems and overcome challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to develop financial budgets and administer financial resources.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions, including heat, cold, dust, mud, and snow.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must have a valid Maine Class B driver’s license or obtain one within 60 days of employment.
• Must have a valid Maine commercial/master pesticide applicator’s license with a demonstration and research category endorsement or obtain one within 60 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the management and operations of a potato farm.
• Background in scientific research programs or conducting crop/pesticide trials or a willingness to consult on scientific research.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage budgets
• Data management skills (Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel) for yearly record keeping (pesticide, fertilizer, projects, usage logs).
• Experience with modern technologies in farming and agricultural research such as drone operation, automated sensors, GPS, etc.

Benefits

• The University of Maine offers a wide range of benefits for employees including, but not limited to, tuition benefits (employee and dependent), comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability as well as retirement plan options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level