Farm Manager

Title: Farm Manager
Department: Farm
Location: Redmond, OR
Classification: Full Time, Non-Exempt
Reports to: CEO/CFO    

OWH firmly believes that our employees are the heart of our success. Through teamwork, dedication and OWH guidelines, our employees thrive individually and as a whole. This position description is designed to outline essential functions and qualifications, not to restrict one’s specified duties, but to summarize expectations and scope of responsibilities to foster individual and group success.

Job Summary:
The primary function of the Farm Manager is planning, coordinating, and overseeing all farming operations. The Farm Manager must understand Organic and Biodynamic farming methods, including a good understanding of all guidelines presented by OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute), accredited by USDA Organic. These regulations include the regulatory text administered by the USDA and the NOP (National Organic Program).

Job Responsibilities:
  • Analyze and manage daily farm operations.
  • Following Organic farming methods to build Soil health, which is the cornerstone of all organic and biodynamic farming. This also includes a good understanding of irrigation and erosion control methods.
  • Collect soil samples and analyze test results to take appropriate measures.
  • Recognize and address plant disease or pest control following OMRI guidelines.
  • Planning and directing seasonal activities around farming operations, including developing and maintaining a staffing plan to meet seasonal needs and fluctuations in work.
  • Anticipating and managing inventories, supplies, and equipment needed for each crop season and phase, working closely with the Purchasing Manager.
  • Develop and maintain the records management system and guidelines per SOPs.
  • Develop and promptly manage budgets, accounting, and reporting for the farm operations.
  • Oversee farming staff (control and supervision, including Assistant Farm Manager and farm crew).
  • Manage personnel and human resources based on best practices.
  • Provide orientation and training for farm employees and communicate/coordinate with Human Resources to ensure timely compliance with new employee paperwork, performance reviews, and training.
  • Work with/coordinate with the Production and the Product Development Department in planning, developing, or adjusting the harvest to meet the needs for raw materials.
  • Ensure efficient use of the farm staff’s scheduling and training.
  • Ensure performance and efficiency goals are met, train staff in proper handling of crops & equipment
  • Conduct safety training on all equipment
  • Diagnose and solve agricultural production problems.
  • Ensure proper safety precautions are being taken and staff receives appropriate safety training
  • Oversee the maintenance of all farm and processing equipment, which is the responsibility of the farm mechanic. Reviewing current maintenance logs on service and maintenance.
  • Run reports (invoice, schedules, and batch paperwork for each job on the production floor).
  • Coordinate with the Production Department to schedule the delivery of raw materials.
  • Have an open line of communication with other departments/management, staying up-to-date on sales promotions and specials to plan production accordingly.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications/Skills:

    Education:

    • High School Diploma or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, or related field plus
    • Forklift certification may be required
    • CPR and First Aid certification required

    Experience:

    • Minimum 5 years in farming, agriculture, or related field required
    • Minimum 3 years in a supervisory role, successfully leading and developing teams
    • Minimum 2 years in a management/leadership role

    Other Demonstrated Skills:
    • Must be hard-working and highly motivated
    • Superb planning and organizational skills
    • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
    • Able to work under pressure, successfully managing change and course correction
    • Managerial skills and leadership qualities are needed
    • Must be familiar with budgeting, accounting (Microsoft Excel)
    • Must be familiar with Health & Safety regulations
    • Manages stress and conflicts appropriately
    • Intermediate command of Spanish language a plus; Fluent in English, with good command of writing

    Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
    • Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move rapidly and frequently
    • Ability to handle up to 75 lbs. occasionally, with or without lifting aides, and up to 50 lbs. frequently
    • Push/pull hand trucks and pallet jacks containing products of substantial weight occasionally
    • Exposure to dust/fumes, moving mechanical parts, and operating heavy equipment
    • Combination of indoors and outdoors
    • Exposure to sunlight and hot/cold or inclement weather
    • Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation

    Other:
    US Citizenship or Permanent Resident (Green Card) required


    OWH is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse culture that values teamwork, integrity, innovations, and an unwavering commitment to our customers.

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