Who are we looking for?
Wilson Farm Inc of Lexington, MA is seeking a full-time, year-round individual to join our agricultural team on our diversified vegetable and small fruit farm.
Primary Responsibilities
The Farm Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the farm in Lexington, MA, with a strong focus on crop cultivation, production, and farm team management. This includes planning, purchasing, planting, nurturing, and harvesting crops to achieve optimal yields. We are a progressive IPM Farm.
Crop Cultivation and Production
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Develop and implement detailed crop plans, including crop selection, planting schedules, and field rotation to optimize soil health and yields.
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Monitor soil conditions, perform soil testing, and apply fertilizers, compost, or organic amendments to maintain nutrient levels.
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Design and oversee irrigation systems to ensure proper water distribution and minimize waste.
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Implement pest, weed, and disease management strategies, including integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
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Utilize modern farming techniques, including precision agriculture tools, to monitor crop health and maximize efficiency.
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Plan and execute harvesting operations, ensuring proper timing, techniques, and storage to maintain crop quality.
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Partner and communicate regularly with the Greenhouse Manager to ensure transplant and seed ordering needs are met; including but not limited to pricing, inventory, growing plugs for both Lex & NH farms.
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Other duties as assigned by Owners/Management.
Personnel Management
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Work closely with Farm Operations Manager and HR to ensure that staffing levels are kept at appropriate numbers throughout the year.
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Develop task schedules and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
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Ability to work with diverse team of people.
Equipment and Facility Maintenance
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Work closely with Maintenance Manager to ensure that farming equipment is regularly maintained. This includes tractors, sprayers, and irrigation systems.
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Ensure storage facilities are properly equipped for crop storage and preservation.
Compliance and Record Keeping
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Work closely with Management to ensure compliance with USDA and FSMA
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Maintain detailed records of crop production, pesticide and fertilizer use, and field activities
Experience/Qualifications Needed
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Prior agricultural management experience required (farm, greenhouse, crop production, or similar).
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Demonstrated experience supervising teams in a hands-on operational environment.
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Comfortable working with and around farm equipment and performing physical work as needed.
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Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and adapt in a fast-paced, seasonal environment.
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Valid U.S. driver’s license and driving record in good standing.
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Possess or be willing to obtain MA Pesticide Applicator License within 6 months of hire.
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High school diploma or equivalent required.
Work Schedule
55+ hours/week during the growing season (April through October) and 47.5 (+/-) hours a week during winter. The availability to work one weekend day per week during the growing season is a must.
Physical Requirements
This role is performed primarily outdoors and in greenhouse environments. The Farm Manager must be able to work in a hands-on setting with exposure to typical farm conditions including dirt, noise, machinery, weather changes, and agricultural materials.
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Ability to operate and ride farm equipment for extended periods.
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Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, gripping tools, and repetitive hand motion.
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Ability to occasionally lift 40+ pounds.
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Ability to work outdoors in varied and sometimes adverse weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and cold.
Benefits
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Competitive wages commensurate with experience. This position starts at $25.00/hour
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Health and Dental insurance with generous premium contribution by Wilson farm
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401(k) plan with employer match
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Annual bonus and a 25% employee discount
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Wilson farm owned housing possible as part of a benefit package
Wilson Farm, Inc. is an E/O/E