We’re seeking a Farm Manager for Star Route Farm!
Job Description
We are seeking a passionate and skilled Farm Manager to oversee day-to-day operations and contribute to the growth and success of our farm, ensuring that the produce is utilized for mutual aid distributions in collaboration with current farm partners. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of organic farming techniques, crop planning, and management, with a strong commitment to sustainability and land stewardship.
Responsibilities
Plan, organize, and execute farming activities, including planting, harvesting, irrigation, pest management, and soil health maintenance, with a focus on providing for mutual aid distributions.
Grow food in a healthy and safe manner.
Develop and implement crop rotation plans, ensuring optimal land use and fertility while contributing to the community's food security.
Supervise and train farm staff and farm volunteers - delegating tasks efficiently to maintain productivity and quality standards for mutual aid distribution purposes.
Co-manage farm budgets, expenses, and inventory of supplies and equipment, prioritizing contributions to mutual aid efforts.
Collaborate with fellow farmers to ensure produce meets market demands and quality expectations for both commercial sales and mutual aid initiatives.
Implement and maintain organic certification standards and compliance to uphold the quality and integrity of produce for distribution. (Note: we are not yet certified due to surrounding rented corn fields, but hope to take over rent to transition them to pasture or grain production).
Monitor and assess crop health, soil quality, and make recommendations for improvements to sustainably support mutual aid initiatives.
Help foster a positive, fun, organized, and collaborative work environment, encouraging teamwork and strong, clear, and compassionate communication among staff.
Support the move from the old rented farm at 796 co Hwy 40 to our new home farm at 852 co Hwy 40. We are starting from the ground up again and welcome your input.
Benefits
Starting salary of $43,200 before taxes
Opportunities for cooperative ownership of farm.
Opportunity to participate in decision-making in our non-profit food sovereignty project.
Health care
Benefits package in-progress.
Access to fresh, organic produce from the farm to support personal and community well-being (including paid farm lunch!).
Contribution to a sustainable and environmentally conscious community through mutual aid distributions.
Can help secure a private rental nearby, if desired.
Farm Overview
Star Route Farm is a farm with a social justice mission, seeking to address systemic food inequities by farming with integrity and responsibility to both land and people. We are a program of Catskills Agrarian Alliance, a multi-enterprise food sovereignty 501c3. We grow in order to distribute free produce to those who are food insecure, and collaborate with our constituent communities to ensure our produce is culturally relevant.
We are a thriving, small-scale farm dedicated to sustainable agriculture practices, specializing in diversified vegetable cultivation and small grain production. We are committed to promoting ecological balance, community engagement, and providing high-quality, organic produce for mutual aid distributions within our local community. Our partners include: Bushwick Ayuda Mutua, Heart of Dinner, Choy Commons, Market in the Heights, The 607CSA, Brooklyn Support Agriculture, Catholic Charities, St Ann’s Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen, ALMS, Wat Buddha Thai Thavorn Vanaram, La Morada, and Hunger Coalition.
Star Route Farm welcomes all people and will not tolerate phobia or racism of any demographic. Disputes are handled through conversation, and/or mediation in an attempt to bring people back into community. We are acutely aware of historical (and present) injustices related to the divestment of land from Black and Indigenous people, coupled with a residual systematized institutional lack of land and work opportunities for many other POC. We are working to repair some of those injustices through our land access work and farmer training. Nevertheless, we are still located in a very rural and sometimes hostile environment, so applicants must be prepared to contend with neighbors and a community at large who may not appreciate our work. For instance, imagery including Trump, Blue Lives Matter, and Confederate slogans are present in the local area.
Qualifications
Ability to lift 50 pounds, repeatedly.
Proven experience in organic farming, preferably in diversified vegetable and small grain production, with a focus on contributing to community-driven initiatives. Knowledge of irrigation, controlled environment growing, tractor skills, etc. a plus.
Able to thrive in a very intergenerational, communal, rural and somewhat isolated environment.
Previous vegetable production management experience. Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to manage a team effectively, dedicated to supporting mutual aid efforts.
Knowledge of sustainable farming practices, soil management, and pest control methods.
Familiarity with organic certification processes, and regulations to ensure the integrity of produce for mutual aid distributions. Willingness and ability to keep records.
Excellent problem-solving abilities and adaptability.
Experience in community engagement and care for mutual aid. Participation in fundraiser events or work-related conferences/distributions.
Team-player who can participate in group decision making, can give and receive feedback, and participate in accountable conflict mediation if necessary.
Passion for sustainable agriculture and dedication to environmental stewardship with a strong commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives.
Loves punctuality, laughing, nature, farming, eating, cooking, sharing good food, learning, creativity, and working hard.
Self-disciplined and motivated! Takes initiative to implement positive change. Participation in daily community/farm care and organizing.
You support the farm’s efforts of centering BIPOC and LBGTQIA+ farmers education, holistic wellness, and land access.
Must be willing to participate in seasonal evaluations about your work with the farm management, staff, and committed volunteers.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume, cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and references to starroutefarmny@gmail.com