For more information about this position, or to apply online, visit the North Carolina State University employment website: http://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/90560

Essential Job Responsibilities: 

This position of Farm Operations Manager is to work under the direction of the Small Farm Unit (SFU) unit manager and the Co-Director of CEFS at NC State to plan and manage the implementation of production, research, and field demonstrations at the Small Farm Unit of CEFS. The Farm Operations Manager provides field management, coordination, and support on-site at the SFU. Coordination includes maintaining adequate communication between NCDA&CS farm staff, apprentices, interns, graduate students,  and faculty with regards to  field operations as requested by the SFU Unit manager. Support includes planning and preparing fields, equipment, and facilities for successful research, outreach, extension and education as required. It also means preparing the farm over the entire year in terms of planned growing of crops, cover crops, integration of animals (none currently at this time, but perhaps a future endeavor, bed and field preparation, maintenance of the SFU as an attractive educational and research center. Primary responsibilities of the SFU Manager are to oversee:

  • Oversee high tunnel operation, production and management. This position may be required to supervise members of the Small Farm Unit Team (Staff, apprentices and interns) as needed.
  • Oversee fruit, vegetable, and specialty crops in the field while maintaining the design and production of the SFU such that it functions as a whole farm system, providing the base of education and outreach activities.
  • Operate and provide basic maintenance of farm equipment and tools as well as support the management and oversight of the SFU as needed..
  • Demonstrate various production techniques for field demonstrations and evaluations.
  • Facilitate field operations for ongoing research so that the research fits into the ongoing SFU whole farm system and provides educational and outreach benefits to farms and communities in eastern North Carolina.
  • Coordinate the field demonstration aspects of the SFU so that the CEFS workshop series responds to local agriculture and community needs.
  • Work with the internship program and farm apprentice program as their work and interests relate to Small Farm Unit.
  • This position will be responsible for processing equipment and seed orders through the university system and all applicable bookkeeping associated with this task, as needed.
  • Coordinate and/or support the maintenance of the SFU office, housing and other facilities, as needed.

Additional Job Responsibilities:

The Small Farm Unit is currently going through a strategic planning process.  This may result in a modified direction and may include changes in the research, farmer training, internship, apprenticeship, or community outreach activities.

Desired Experience/Education:

Experience in sustainable and organic production that may include horticultural crops, grains, cover crops, greenhouses, and livestock as all are components on the Small Farm Unit. Being a strong communicator as the SFU hosts tours, workshops, meetings and community programs, is a must; as is the ability to work with diverse audiences including farmers, community leaders, youth, researchers, extension personnel, students and others. A highly motivated and independent worker who has the ability take direction as well as to independently problem solve and make decisions, as needed.. Ability to prioritize tasks is necessary, while considering input from multiple participants and availability of labor and equipment. An undergraduate degree in an agriculture related field is highly desirable that will complement at least 3 years of production systems experience..

Departmental Required Skills:

-Must be able to work outdoors in unpleasant weather conditions, such as heat and humidity
-Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds on a routine basis.
-Must be able to stand, stoop, bend and walk on uneven terrain for extended periods of time.
-Valid drivers license
-Must be willing to work as part of a team, but also be independently motivated.
-Must have the highest regard for research accuracy
-Basic computer skills, such as Microsoft Office and email are required.

Apply at:  http://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/90560.  You will be prompted to upload a cover letter, resume, and three references.

AA/EOE: NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process, please call 919-515-3148.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. If highest degree is from an institution outside of the U.S., final candidates are required to have their degree verified at www.wes.org. Degree must be obtained prior to start date.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.