Master Farmer

Lead, oversee and participate in the more complex and difficult work of staff responsible for the care and maintenance of animals and crops at the Biological Park Farm; to assist in the design, set-up and planting of crops; and to perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

1. Lead, plan, train and review the work of staff responsible for the maintenance and care of a variety of farm animals and plants/crops within the BioPark Farm.
2. Plan, direct and participate in the care of farm animals and plants within the BioPark Farm; plant, clean, weed, prune and maintain farm as required.
3. Determine project and daily tasks and the sequence of tasks associated with farm maintenance; oversee and participate in the work of farm crew; follow through on completion of tasks.
4. Assist in the design, set up and planting of crops; prune, spray and maintain orchard; design, install, maintain and repair irrigation system for the BioPark Farm.
5. Train assigned employees in their areas of work including livestock and plant care methods, procedures and techniques.
6. Verify the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper work methods and techniques, and compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
7. Prepare diets for livestock; clean tools and equipment used in diet preparation; clean and maintain diet preparation work area and food storage containers.
8. Maintain adequate records on daily activities including height and weight of each animal; observe animal behavior for signs of illness or injury; report any signs of illness or injury to appropriate staff.
9. Maintain inventory of supplies, produce and equipment; service and operate equipment used in farming maintenance and irrigation installation; order supplies as needed; copy and file paperwork including requisitions, weekly orders, field records, logs and diet changes.
10. Assist in the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines.
11. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within area of responsibility; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.
12. Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Participate in pest control operations as needed.
2. May assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activities as needed.
3. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.

High school diploma or GED supplemented by thirty (30) credit hours of vocational or college-level coursework in zoology, biology, botany, horticulture, or animal science; and 

Three (3) years animal care or farm maintenance experience in a zoo, garden, farm or other agricultural facility.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days from date of hire.  

Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within 6 months from hire date.Environmental:
Field environment; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, animal body fluids inclement weather conditions; work in or with water; and work underground.

Physical:
Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for heavy, moderate or light lifting; bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling; walking or standing for prolonged periods.