Farm Manager

FarmOn; Manchester; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

A sustainable farm and education center in the United Kingdom is seeking a Farm Manager. This role involves overseeing farm activities, managing crops, and participating in apprenticeship education. Candidates should have experience in organic farming and excellent supervisory skills. They will also manage the farm’s finances and ensure compliance with organic certification standards. A degree in agriculture or a related field is preferred. Competitive salary offered.

Qualifications

• Manage and coordinate all farm activities in an organic farming setting.
• Supervise and educate apprentices in sustainable agricultural practices.
• Manage farm budget and ensure financial sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate all farm activities and oversee production processes.
• Supervise and educate apprentices during the farm season.
• Manage farm finances and maintain compliance with organic standards.

Skills

Farm management experience

Knowledge of organic farming practices

Supervisory skills

Budget management

Strong communication skills

Education

Degree in agriculture or related field

Tools

Farm vehicles

Tractors

Small machinery

Job description

Company Description

Oz Farm and Retreat Center is a multifaceted community that aspires to engage the public through immersive education in sustainable food systems and holistic life practices.

Oz Farm is a certified organic farm and apple orchard on a 240-acre parcel in Mendocino County. The property is protected by a conservation easement that preserves Redwood forest and Garinga river. While the farm produces fruits, vegetables, and flowers for farmers' markets, CSA, and wholesale, its main goal is to educate farm apprentices. Each season 3‑5 apprentices live on site and learn organic farming and land management.

Position Summary

The Farm Manager and Assistant Farm Manager are responsible for implementing all aspects of food production and leading apprenticeship education. These roles report to the Director of Operations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all farm activities.
• Plan crop, greenhouse production, field maintenance, and harvest; adhere to planting and harvesting schedules.
• Supervise and educate 3‑5 apprentices from April to November.
• Co‑educate apprentices on farm curriculum through discussion sessions and hands‑on demonstrations.
• Update educational curriculum to reflect best practices and organic certification standards.
• Collect data and documentation to track performance measures required for organic certification.
• Manage the farm’s budget and finances.
• Coordinate produce and apple accounts, including orders, harvest, invoicing, and deliveries to farmers' markets and CSA.
• Oversee maintenance of irrigation systems; manage equipment and infrastructure.
• Coordinate with retreats and events for produce orders.
• Participate in weekly farm staff meetings.
• Provide flexibility to perform additional tasks as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Perform farm work including harvesting, hoeing, stake pounding, and digging.
• Operate farm vehicles, tractors, and small machines.
• Lift up to 60 lbs.
• Use tools and machinery safely.

Community Responsibilities

• Participate in weekly staff meetings.
• Abide by all farm policies and protocols.
• Participate in community cooking rotation.
• Respect and care for communal spaces.
• Maintain kindness, communication, and care for other community members.
• Be responsible for visitors' safety and proper use of facilities.

Compensation

Salary: $68,640 – $75,000 (salaried).