WCT Community Farm Program Seeking an Production Manager for 2024
Who we are:
The Willistown Conservation Trust Community Farm Program supports the Trust mission by providing a model for sustainable agricultural practices and promoting the values of open space and natural resource protection to a broad community of constituents. By bringing together community members, farmers and land in a mutually supportive relationship, the farm program provides fresh and healthy locally grown products, contributes to the growth of local sustainable food networks and connects people more closely with the rural landscape and cultural heritage of the Willistown countryside.
What we seek:
The WCT Community Farm Program is seeking a Production Manager for its operations at Rushton Farm. Applicants should have a working knowledge of ecological and regenerative farming practices and a desire to teach others these skills. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated a commitment to agriculture as a career and have goals to manage their own farm operation.
The Production Manager is a full time position with primary responsibilities from January through November to help manage all aspects of growing and distributing produce for the farm’s 100-member CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and local food banks.
Preferred Skills:
- 2 or more years of small scale farming or market gardening experience, ideally using organic, sustainable growing practices.
- Propagation and greenhouse management experience
- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays in accordance with farm demands and events
- Ability to manage a group safely and productively in the field
- A desire to work with volunteers of all ages and backgrounds
- Strong communication skills and ability to express the mission and philosophy of WCT and the Community Farm Program to the general public
- Interest in communicating to the public, interns and youth volunteers about food systems and other topics related to sustainable agriculture
- Preference will be given to those with tractor experience and are handy with a variety of hand and power tools
Responsibilities:
- Seed sowing and greenhouse management including alternate weekend watering duties.
- All aspects of field maintenance including bed preparation, planting, weeding and irrigation.
- CSA distribution including harvest and post harvest handling. The Production Manager will work closely with the Field Manager to make final decisions on produce distribution.
- Training of farm interns and volunteers in the sustainable practices of small scale farming and gardening.
- Participation and involvement in planning WCT Community Farm Program events, which often occur on weekends and evenings.
- Serving on one or more of the farm program committees
Salary: Salary commensurate with experience and includes produce from the farm.
Benefits: Excellent benefits package including health, retirement, paid holidays and vacation days.
Willistown Conservation Trust is a non-smoking, dog-friendly work environment. As a small non-profit organization, staff are expected to work collaboratively across all departments. Duties may occasionally require physical work outdoors. WCT is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Application Process:
Please send your resume, cover letter and references via email to Fred de Long at: land@wctrust.org
We will review all submissions and contact viable candidates about the next steps in the selection process. References will not be contacted until after we have interviewed potential candidates. The position will be filled when the desired candidate has been found.
