Organic Farm Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of sustainability, the role of organic farm managers has become paramount.

With the increasing global need for sustainable food sources and responsible farming, the demand for skilled individuals who can cultivate, manage, and protect our organic farms is escalating.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an organic farm manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of organic farming,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable organic farm manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Organic Farm Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Organic Farm Managers oversee the production of crops and livestock and ensure the farm functions in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner.

They play a critical role in managing all aspects of a farm’s operations from planning to harvesting and marketing.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing the farm’s operational plans and policies
• Overseeing the planting, nurturing, and harvesting of organic crops
• Ensuring that farming practices are in compliance with organic certification standards
• Managing livestock and poultry, ensuring their health and well-being
• Maintaining the health of the soil through sustainable farming practices
• Monitoring and controlling pests and diseases in an organic manner
• Organizing the sale and marketing of farm produce
• Managing relationships with vendors, suppliers, and customers
• Ensuring farm safety and biosecurity measures are in place and followed
• Performing administrative duties such as record keeping, budgeting, and reporting
• Staying updated on new organic farming techniques and regulations

 

Organic Farm Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Organic Farm Manager to oversee all operations of our organic farm.

The responsibilities of the Organic Farm Manager include planning and coordinating the production process, promoting sustainable farming practices, and ensuring compliance with organic farming regulations.

Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable about organic farming principles, has excellent leadership skills, and a passion for sustainable agriculture.

Ultimately, the role of the Organic Farm Manager is to ensure our farm operates successfully, produces high quality organic crops, and adheres to all organic farming standards and regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Overseeing daily farm operations and supervising farm staff
• Planning and coordinating crop production activities
• Ensuring compliance with organic farming regulations
• Maintaining records of crops, finances, and labor
• Implementing organic and sustainable farming practices
• Managing the marketing and sale of farm products
• Coordinating maintenance and repair of farm equipment
• Ensuring farm safety and security
• Training staff on organic farming techniques and safety standards
• Monitoring crop health and managing pests and diseases

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Farm Manager, preferably in organic farming
• Knowledge of organic farming regulations and sustainable farming practices
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery
• Understanding of crop management and production
• Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• BSc degree in Agriculture, Farm Management or related field

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Organic Farm Manager
• Work Environment: Outdoor and indoor farm setting. Physical labor and exposure to various weather conditions are expected.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or Operations Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Organic Farm Manager Do?

Organic Farm Managers are responsible for the planning, directing, and coordinating of activities related to growing and harvesting crops, fruits, vegetables, and livestock on organic farms.

They ensure that the farm operates in compliance with organic farming principles and regulations.

They utilize sustainable and organic methods of pest management, soil fertility, and crop rotation while avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetic modification.

Organic Farm Managers are also involved in the selection and maintenance of farm equipment and machinery.

They manage farm workers, providing training and supervision, and ensure safe working conditions.

They also may participate in tasks such as planting, fertilizing, harvesting, and marketing.

They work closely with other professionals, like agronomists and veterinarians, to ensure the wellbeing of crops and livestock.

Moreover, they handle the financial aspects of the farm, which include budgeting, keeping records of all transactions, purchasing supplies, managing sales, and sometimes seeking funding or grants for farm improvements or expansion.

Organic Farm Managers continuously research and adapt to new organic farming techniques and regulations to enhance farm productivity while maintaining the organic certification.

 

Organic Farm Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Organic Farm Manager should have the skills and qualifications that are critical for managing an organic farm successfully, these include:

• Knowledge of organic farming techniques and practices, as well as a deep understanding of organic certification requirements.
• Physical stamina and strength to perform various farming tasks which may involve lifting heavy loads, bending, kneeling, and standing for long periods.
• Excellent leadership and management skills for supervising farm workers and coordinating farming activities.
• Good problem-solving skills to effectively deal with challenges that may arise in the farming process such as pest or disease outbreaks.
• Strong communication skills to liaise with customers, suppliers, and farm workers, and to effectively market and sell farm products.
• A keen eye for detail and the ability to plan and organize farming activities to ensure that crops are planted, nurtured, and harvested in a timely manner.
• Knowledge of farm machinery and equipment, including maintenance and repair.
• Understanding of business and financial principles to manage the farm’s budget and ensure profitability.
• Ability to adapt to changing weather conditions and make necessary adjustments to farming practices.

 

Organic Farm Manager Experience Requirements

Organic Farm Managers often start their career with a degree in organic or sustainable agriculture, environmental science, or a related field.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role on a farm or agricultural organization.

These individuals gain practical experience in organic farming, soil management, crop rotation, and pest control practices.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their skills and knowledge in roles such as Farmhand, Agriculture Specialist, or Crop Scientist.

They gain expertise in managing a diversified organic farm, including planning, planting, managing, and harvesting various crops.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically skilled in managing larger-scale organic farms and have experience in overseeing the overall operations of a farm.

They may have additional experience in areas such as developing and implementing organic certification plans, managing farm staff, marketing organic produce, and maintaining organic standards in all farming practices.

Candidates with extensive experience in organic farming may also have skills in business management, as running a successful organic farm requires strategic planning, budgeting, and financial management.

Some roles may require the Organic Farm Manager to have advanced experience in specific areas such as permaculture design, biodynamic farming, or agroforestry.

 

Organic Farm Manager Education and Training Requirements

Organic Farm Managers usually have a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, organic farming or a related field.

They need comprehensive knowledge of organic farming principles, practices, and regulations, including crop rotation, composting, soil health, and pest management.

Some positions may require Organic Farm Managers to have a master’s degree in organic agriculture or a related discipline, particularly for larger or more specialized farms.

Additionally, Organic Farm Managers often need some form of certification to demonstrate their understanding of organic standards and regulations.

This can be obtained through accredited bodies like the USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) or the Organic Crop Improvement Association (OCIA).

Practical farming experience is also key, with many farm managers gaining experience through internships, apprenticeships, or working on a farm.

Continuous education and staying updated with the latest organic farming methods and technologies is vital.

Many farm managers attend workshops, seminars, and courses to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Finally, business management skills are important as the role often involves budgeting, marketing, and personnel management.

 

Organic Farm Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Organic Farm Manager is $67,950 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may differ based on factors such as the size and profitability of the farm, the manager’s experience and qualifications, and the location of the farm.

 

Organic Farm Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Organic Farm Manager need?

Organic Farm Managers need a strong understanding of organic farming principles and sustainable agricultural practices.

They should have practical farming skills, including planting, irrigation, and pest management.

Knowledge of farm machinery and equipment maintenance is also important.

In addition, they should possess strong leadership and management skills, along with the ability to plan and oversee farm operations and make sound financial decisions.

 

Do Organic Farm Managers need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, many Organic Farm Managers have a degree in agriculture or a related field.

More important than formal education is practical farming experience and a deep understanding of organic farming principles and practices.

However, a degree in agricultural science or a related field can provide a strong foundation of knowledge.

 

What should you look for in an Organic Farm Manager resume?

Look for candidates with experience in organic farming, sustainable agriculture, and farm management.

Practical skills, such as the ability to operate and maintain farm machinery, are also important.

The resume should demonstrate a candidate’s understanding of organic farming principles, soil management, crop rotation, and pest management.

Additionally, look for evidence of good leadership and decision-making skills.

 

What qualities make a good Organic Farm Manager?

A good Organic Farm Manager is committed to sustainable and organic farming practices.

They should have a strong work ethic, physical stamina to meet the demands of farm work, and good leadership skills.

Attention to detail is important for managing farm operations efficiently.

They should also have good problem-solving skills to deal with the unpredictability of farming, such as changes in weather or pest infestations.

 

Is it challenging to find qualified Organic Farm Managers?

Yes, it can be challenging to find Organic Farm Managers who have the necessary practical farming experience and understanding of organic farming principles.

Additionally, not everyone is cut out for the physical demands and unpredictability of farm work.

Therefore, it’s important to thoroughly assess candidates’ skills, knowledge, and suitability for farm work.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dug a little deeper into what it truly means to be an organic farm manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about planting seeds.

It’s about nurturing a sustainable future, one crop at a time.

With our handy organic farm manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop at the surface?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-designed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every seed planted is a part of a bigger ecosystem.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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