SUSTAINABLE FOOD & FARMS

Position: Field and Operations Manager
Farm: Vintage Soil Farm

Location: Frankville, between Kingston & Ottawa, Ontario
Housing: fully furnished accom. (see below)

Vintage Soil Farm (VS) is expanding and we are looking to add a Field and Operations Manager to our team!

About Us

Our mission is to cultivate soil, food, and community sustainably. VS is a small-scale mixed vegetable farm. For the past 3 years, we have operated on rented land in Kemptville and we are excited to say that we are transitioning our farm to our own land for 2024 located in Frankville Ontario located directly in between Kingston and Ottawa.

VS is a mix of draft power and human power and for 2024 we will be adding some tractor work to our system. We grow in accordance with the organic certification standards and will be pursuing certification on our new land.

In 2024 VS will be growing up to 4 acres of mixed veg along with 4 acres of cover crop. In addition to that we have 2 greenhouses. VS distributes our produce through 2 farmers markets, a summer CSA and a fall CSA.

Position Summary

As we transition to our new farm we are looking for a Field and Operations Manager who can work alongside the farm manager to help run the day-to-day operations. While working as part of the team, the Field and Operations Manager will coordinate and direct the activities of the farm team to ensure optimal productivity, quality and safety on the farm. Reporting to the farm manager, the Field and Operations Manager will be communicating on a daily basis regarding farm operation needs.

The Field and Operations Manager will be expected to function as a lead and a member of the farm team and will be asked to provide feedback to the farm manager on the farm team's performance and needs.

At Vintage Soil Farm we meet regularly as a team and in one on one meetings. We are a small team of 3-4 people and our staff and work culture are very important to us. Honest and open communication is an essential part of our farm.

Roles and responsibilities

1. Working alongside the farm manager to ensure that farm production and quality goals are met
2. Working alongside the farm manager to carry out the weekly work schedule
3. Lead harvest days ensuring timely flow and scheduling of crop harvesting
4. Work alongside the farm manager to determine field priorities week to week
5. Ensure that cultivation is done in a timely manner and communicate priorities to the farm manager on a regular basis
6. Manage the farm team alongside the farm manager and ensure performance by providing training and feedback to ensure they have the appropriate skills for the assigned task
7. Facilitate a respectful, communicative and team-orientated work environment
8. Communicate to the farm manager to ensure the necessary supplies and parts needed are available for the farm and equipment operations
9. Maintain a safe, clean and well-organized environment for staff and customers
10. Provide insight to the farm manager for the development of new farm systems
11. Contribute to the development of a long-term farm strategy for farm operations
12. Manage a weekly farmers' market
13. Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications

3+ years of farming experience
Management experience an asset
Farmers’ market experience an asset
Tractor and two-wheel tractor experience an asset
Ability to work outside during all conditions
Ability to lift 40 lbs regularly and repetitively
Ability to work with a team and create a positive work environment
Ability to carry out solo tasks effectively and efficiently
Ability to make quick decisions and set priorities throughout the day
Full driver’s license required
Horse experience an asset

Job Terms

April 10th to November 30th (there may be potential for work in December)
35 hours a week. There may be potential for a few extra hours here and there, we value work-life balance and will never work more than 35-40 hours a week.

Accommodations

• On-farm accommodations are available for a discounted rate of $400/month. Fully furnished.
• Internet and utilities included.
• The housing may be available year-round, a lease will be signed for April to November with a lease review scheduled for the end of November.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness stipend – $500
• Work gear stipend – $200
• 2 Paid sick days
• Access to fresh, seasonal vegetables
• Wage review after 4 months

Compensation

Starting wage is $20+/hr
Taking into account discounted rent starting wage is calculated at $24+/hr
Priority will be given to candidates who are interested in long-term/multi-year employment and there is the potential for a longer-term contract for 2025

APPLY:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to Isabelle at isabelle@vintagesoilfarm.com
Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Preference for an in-person interview.

Please indicate you saw this posting at FoodWork.ca.