Position: Farm Manager
Kroka Expeditions is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to work alongside our current farm manager through the leadership transition of Kroka Farm. Our current manager/founder of the farm will me moving on in 2022.
Our diversified farm is comprised of 30 acres of pasture, hay fields and gardens amidst a beautiful 100-acre campus. Livestock includes dairy cows, laying hens, and a draft horse. Our gardens produce a variety of greens, root crops, fruits, and berries to feed 1,000 students who join Kroka’s programs annually. The farm is managed by two full-time farmers and aided by apprentices, staff, and students. Working in a close-knit team, our farmers plan and execute food production and farm education, while caring for the land and the animals using biodynamic and organic practices.
Schedule
Year-round, full-time, salaried.
Responsibilities
Working in a team, the Farm Manager will conduct all aspects of managing Kroka’s diversified educational farm, balancing productivity with educational goals. Primary responsibilities will include:
- Planning and execution of a diversified vegetable production – for consumption by students and staff, market sales, and donations to local area food banks
- Care of fruit trees and perennial crops
- Development and sales of value-added products
- Overseeing daily chores and maintenance of the farm
In addition, the Farm Manager will:
- Develop educational curriculum for students and apprentices
- Facilitate daily and weekly work projects with students of all ages
- Train and mentor Farm Apprentices
- Maintain farm equipment and barn spaces
- Assist with pasture management
- Collaborate with program coordinators to meet the food needs of the organization
- Carry out other responsibilities inherent in being part of a working farm and residential community!
Qualifications & Experience
Qualified candidates will have a minimum of 5 seasons experience in organic farming/gardening as well as the following experiences:
- Diversified gardening – including season-extension
- Proficiency in operating a tractor and implements – mechanical skills are a plus
- Excited to engage in farm education with students ages 9 – 19, apprentices, and staff
- Experience or interest in developing and teaching agricultural curriculum
- Desire to join a land-based community of staff and students working together towards a sustainable future
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, a strong work ethic, a consistent positive attitude, attention to detail, and a capacity for cooperative teamwork
- Valid driver’s license with clean record
- Ability to work outdoors in a physically active role year round
- Animal husbandry – including dairy and poultry
- Working understanding of intensive rotational grazing, including fencing and pasture management
- Proficiency in operating a tractor and implements – mechanical skills are a plus
Compensation & Benefits:
Being one of Kroka’s farmers is a year-round, full time, residential position. Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Kroka staff benefits include health insurance, retirement benefits, vacation and health days, and participation in a vibrant community.
