The Farm at Augusta Health (AH) is a partnership between Rodale Institute and Augusta Health. This partnership aims to continue and expand a successful and impactful farm-to-hospital model. The Farm Manager will lead farmers, seasonal workers and volunteers to produce healthy, organic produce for the AH cafeteria and community benefit programming.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Conduct day-to-day farm operations in relationship to crop production at the AH Hospital in Fishersville, VA. Field responsibilities include, but are not limited to: soil preparation, planting, harvesting, washing, and packing produce, weed, pest and disease management, building cold frames or hoop houses, equipment maintenance and repair, etc.
Manage and coordinate labor efforts among the farm staff
Document field operations on Rodale Institute forms to satisfy organic certification requirements, research data collection needs, financial accounting and maintain production records on a regular basis
Coordinate CSA and wholesale deliveries
Coordinate maintenance schedules for tractor(s), truck(s) and other equipment
Coordinate landscaping and facility maintenance and repairs among AH hospital staff
Operate equipment (tractors, tractor implements, small engine equipment, and hand tools) in a safe and efficient manner
Complete and follow the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) implemented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
as well as FSMA
Plan a growing schedule and meet with supervisor frequently to ensure planting of crops is sufficient and meet all organic certifications
Educate and train seasonal staff and volunteers to carry out the day-to-day activities of the managed operation
Deliver Graduate Medical Education Farm Elective curriculum
Summarize and analyze production data to identify trends
Maintain a clean workspace and offices
Communicate with nutrition services and community outreach team members
Assist with community outreach programming and education events
Coordinate with Rodale Institute staff for travel needs and purchasing supplies
Prepare a yearly budget, budget narrative and quarterly reports
Other duties may/will be assigned on a case by case and as-needed basis
Required Qualifications & Experience:
Must have a bachelor’s degree and/or 5 years of experience in organic horticulture or agronomic crop production
Must be able and willing to work in all types of weather conditions
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to lift and carry +50lbs
Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Ability to be flexible with schedule, as farm work can be unpredictable
Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Adobe Acrobat
Other Expectations:
Individuals must be committed to the farm’s success, and in turn, the farm will be committed to the individual’s success
To be trustful and respectful to all staff and visitors
Travel:
Travel will be required to The Farm at Augusta Health, and periodically to Rodale Institute in Kutztown, PA, as well as conferences, grower meetings and workshops
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, sexual identity or handicap.
