Farm Manager - Lexington, MA

Description

Who are we looking for?

Wilson Farm Inc of Lexington, MA is seeking a full-time, year-round individual to join our agricultural team on our diversified vegetable and small fruit farm.

Primary Responsibilities

The Farm Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the farm in Lexington, MA, with a strong focus on crop cultivation, production, and farm team management. This includes planning, purchasing, planting, nurturing, and harvesting crops to achieve optimal yields. We are a progressive IPM Farm. 

Crop Cultivation and Production

• Develop and implement detailed crop plans, including crop selection, planting schedules, and field rotation to optimize soil health and yields.
• Monitor soil conditions, perform soil testing, and apply fertilizers, compost, or organic amendments to maintain nutrient levels.
• Design and oversee irrigation systems to ensure proper water distribution and minimize waste.
• Implement pest, weed, and disease management strategies, including integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
• Utilize modern farming techniques, including precision agriculture tools, to monitor crop health and maximize efficiency.
• Plan and execute harvesting operations, ensuring proper timing, techniques, and storage to maintain crop quality.
• Partner and communicate regularly with the Greenhouse Manager to ensure transplant and seed ordering needs are met; including but not limited to pricing, inventory, growing plugs for both Lex & NH farms.
• Other duties as assigned by Owners/Management.

Personnel Management

• Work closely with Farm Operations Manager and HR to ensure that staffing levels are kept at appropriate numbers throughout the year.
• Develop task schedules and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Ability to work with diverse team of people.

Equipment and Facility Maintenance

• Work closely with Maintenance Manager to ensure that farming equipment is regularly maintained. This includes tractors, sprayers, and irrigation systems.
• Ensure storage facilities are properly equipped for crop storage and preservation.

Compliance and Record Keeping

• Work closely with Management  to ensure compliance with USDA and FSMA
• Maintain detailed records of crop production, pesticide and fertilizer use, and field activities 

Experience/Qualifications Needed

• Prior agricultural management experience required (farm, greenhouse, crop production, or similar).
• Demonstrated experience supervising teams in a hands-on operational environment.
• Comfortable working with and around farm equipment and performing physical work as needed.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and adapt in a fast-paced, seasonal environment. 
• Valid U.S. driver’s license and driving record in good standing.
• Possess or be willing to obtain MA Pesticide Applicator License within 6 months of hire.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Work Schedule

55+ hours/week during the growing season (April through October) and 47.5 (+/-) hours a week during winter. The availability to work one weekend day per week during the growing season is a must.

Physical Requirements

This role is performed primarily outdoors and in greenhouse environments. The Farm Manager must be able to work in a hands-on setting with exposure to typical farm conditions including dirt, noise, machinery, weather changes, and agricultural materials. 

• Ability to operate and ride farm equipment for extended periods.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, gripping tools, and repetitive hand motion.
• Ability to occasionally lift 40+ pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied and sometimes adverse weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and cold.

Benefits

• Competitive wages commensurate with experience. This position starts at $25.00/hour
• Health and Dental insurance with generous premium contribution by Wilson farm
• 401(k) plan with employer match
• Annual bonus and a 25% employee discount
• Wilson farm owned housing possible as part of a benefit package

Wilson Farm, Inc. is an E/O/E