The HEAL Project is seeking a dedicated Farm Manager (FM) to oversee all operations on the Farm, including planning, implementing, maintaining, and harvesting crops with the support of a committed team of volunteers. The FM will need strong planning and managerial skills to set goals, identify infrastructure improvements, document actions, and wisely allocate resources such as volunteer labor and budgets. An entrepreneurial spirit and a can-do attitude are essential, as the FM will seek out sales opportunities for produce and value-added products. Additionally, collaboration with the Farm Programs Manager is vital to ensure the Farm serves as an ideal venue for student visitors.

About The HEAL Project

The HEAL Project (THP) is a unique organization providing hands-on programming that instills healthy lifestyle habits in elementary school children while inspiring environmental and agricultural awareness through a comprehensive, interactive curriculum. THP teaches kids where their food comes from and why it matters.

Responsibilities

Maintain, develop and schedule farm plantings; perform crop planting & harvesting using sustainable practices including but not limited to cover cropping and no-till practices
Operate and maintain farm equipment including THP pickup truck, John Deere 4044 Tractor and attachments (rototiller, disc, bucket, bed maker), generators, pumps, etc.
Collaborate with THP Farm Programs Manager to ensure care of farm infrastructure, manage utility services, oversee the Farm as an ideal learning environment, and develop and manage organization and inventory storage areas, materials and supplies consistent with visitor safety, security and general well maintained appearance of the site
Manage harvests of produce in accordance with pre determined goals for supporting youth programs, sales, and donations
Train, lead, and supervise volunteers completing daily farm care tasks
Purchase/maintain materials, tools and other inventory required for farm use
Light groundskeeping such as mowing, pruning brush, with assistance of volunteer groundskeeper
Act as liaison with farm owner/landlord, organizational & agency partners, farming/ranching community
Provide backup for program staff when needed leading on-site instruction of students, teachers & adult visitors
Participate in The HEAL Project’s larger team activities, including staff planning sessions, meetings, and trainings
Conduct other duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications & Qualities

The successful applicant will:

Possess a minimum of two years of full-time farming experience, with additional consideration going to those who have supervisory experience
Have experience working with volunteers
Have the ability to work out of doors in a variety of conditions (heat, cold, mud, rain).
A driving record with no major infractions and a valid driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one within 60 days of employment) is required.
Desire to work and contribute to an educational farm space in a coastal California climate. Entrepreneurial mindset
Preference given to someone who has used and maintained tractors for agricultural cultivation
Degree in Agriculture or Farm Apprentice training is preferred.
Spanish language skills are a plus.

Additional Requirements

Must comply with THP’s Employee Handbook
Must use computer to maintain communication and track program data
Must have access to a personal vehicle and provide valid driver’s license and proof of insurance
Must meet physical requirements: ability to walk up to two miles and lift/carry up to 50 lbs for 20 feet
Must pass DOJ fingerprint/background check and TB test
Must complete First Aid and CPR training within six months of hire