Nonprofit Farm Manager
Full TimeJob Description
Project GROWS is a nonprofit organization in Augusta County, Virginia with the mission to grow a healthy community by connecting all people to nutritious foods. Our farm stewards a healthy ecosystem that yields nutrient-dense food as well as providing beautiful, engaging natural spaces that promote self-discovery and joy. We provide experiential, hands-on education through summer camps, in-school activities, mentorship programs, and more. Our team also manages multiple farmers markets that improve food security and contribute to our local food economy. We envision a world with an equitable food system where everyone has the access and knowledge to choose, grow, and enjoy foods that support a healthy life. To learn more, please visit .
Overview
The Farm Manager will bring strong experience in ecological, year-round vegetable production, along with the leadership skills needed to effectively supervise, train, and motivate staff and volunteers on our 10-acre farm 1-acre in crop production). This role requires someone who is passionate about sustainable and regenerative agriculture, has excellent skills in managing people, and can collaborate to foster a growth-minded work environment. A self-motivated work ethic, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to build and maintain community relationships are essential. As a core member of the Project GROWS team, the Farm Manager will contribute to broader organizational planning and evaluation and will model teamwork, accountability, and creative problem-solving in support of our mission to advance food education and food access.
Essential Functions
- Oversee Farm Production and Infrastructure: Lead all crop production efforts, including open fields, high tunnels, and greenhouse spaces. Develop and implement systems for managing plantings, rotations, pest and nutrient controls, irrigation, and overall farm maintenance. Create and manage weekly task lists to guide daily operations. Set and monitor annual goals and budget. Maintain safe, organized, and accessible growing spaces. Ensure proper maintenance of equipment, tools, walk-in coolers, and processing areas.
- Manage Distribution Across Outlets: Oversee harvesting, washing, packing, storage, and distribution of produce with a focus on food safety and quality. Coordinate sales and donations with partners. Maintain detailed harvest and distribution records.
- Manage Farm Staff and Volunteers: Hire, train, schedule, and supervise seasonal staff. Lead small groups in daily farm tasks with clear instruction, safety protocols, and support. Coordinate weekly farm volunteers, group volunteer events, and seasonal Garden Work Parties. Lead volunteer appreciation and stewardship activities. Foster new volunteer relationships and nurture longstanding partnerships.
- Manage Youth Leaders in Agriculture (YLA) Program: Hire, train, and supervise summer YLA workers. Coordinate recruitment efforts with partners. Plan program activities and events, work schedules, and leadership development opportunities.
- Collaborate with Program and Community Partners: Coordinatewith education and market teams to align farm activities with programmatic needs. Foster relationships with diverse partners including schools, businesses, farmer networks, and other nonprofits groups.
Core Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Minimum of 2 years experience in full season vegetable production
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams with clarity, empathy, and accountability
- Knowledge of sustainable and regenerative agriculture, including soil biology, low-till methods, permaculture, cover crops, composting, soil testing, and weed management techniques
- Proven ability to work with people of all ages, including youth
- Highly organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects, budgets, and deadlines
- Strong critical thinker and problem solver, able to anticipate challenges and contribute to strategic planning and program innovation
- Skilled in training, motivating, and leading others in a dynamic work environment, including physically demanding and adverse outdoor conditions
- Effective communicator, skilled at tailoring messaging to diverse audiences and learning styles
- Collaborative team player with a strong commitment to the mission and values of Project GROWS
- Proficient in Google Workspace applications supporting collaboration and productivity
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing a farm operation of similar size
- Experience designing, implementing, and evaluating farm-based education programs with youth
- Experience selling and marketing food in farmers market settings
- Experience working in nonprofit organizations
*While some growing experience is required, a willingness to work hard, try new things, and improvise is most important! We encourage candidates with limited experience to still apply.
Other Requirements
- Because we are located in an area without access to reliable public transportation, we recommend that applicants with access to a vehicle apply. In addition, a valid driver’s license is required to fulfill job duties as is a clean driving record, for insurance purposes
- Because we routinely work with children, a background check is required for final applicants
- References required for final candidates
- Cell phone communication
- CPR / First Aid training (will be paid for by Project GROWS)
- Along with all other members of the Project GROWS team, the Farm Manager may occasionally be required (with advance notice) to work weekend and evening hours
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person