Farm Director- Saratoga Springs (HOA)

COMPANY OVERVIEW: Together We Soar!

Vesta Property Services has been in the industry for more than 25 years and holds over 800 community management contracts while serving the amenity needs of Florida's most prestigious communities! We are proud to employ over 1,000 associates and have been rated as one of Florida’s Top Workplaces.

Saratoga Springs, an Agrihood community of more than 4,400 homes in Green Cove Springs, Florida, is seeking a dedicated, full-time Farm Director. This is a unique opportunity for you to be part of the agrihood community movement and a friendly, hardworking team. We pride ourselves in creating a positive, enjoyable work environment. The farmers are hired by Vesta, the company that manages the HOA and Farm, and work in conjunction with Convivial Foodscapes, LLC.

We grow 10 acres of organic vegetables and fruit that are distributed to residents through a retail Farm Share program. In addition to overseeing production, we also maintain multiple community gardens and a Farm Store.

Our Vesta associates are our most valuable resource. We hire people we trust and give them autonomy to do their best work. We also support professional development with training, coaching and regular feedback. We have a highly collaborative culture supported by our EAGLE PRIDE values!

JOB SUMMARY: Your Flight Plan!

The Farm Director will plan and oversee the daily operations of the organization to ensure goals and objectives are achieved. 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: Ready to Fly!

• Manage farm crew and all aspects of vegetable, fruit and herb production, including but not limited to seeding, planting,pest, disease and fertility management, field cultivation, irrigation, installation and repairs, harvesting and post harvest handling, record keeping, upholding product, food safety standards, etc.

• Manage the year-round Farm Share program, with peak production occurring from October to June.

• Maintain farm infrastructure and landscape with support from contracted vendors, including the cleanliness and orderliness of the store, barn and its surroundings.

• Manage farm purchasing, inventory, and operating budget within established guidelines.

• Foster resident engagement by leading workshops, farm tours, attending monthly farmers markets, and hosting events.

• Provide friendly customer service both in person and by phone

• Practice and foster team spirit and positive, productive working relations with POA, Developer staff and resident volunteers.

• Assist HOA team with events as needed

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: The Wingspan Needed!

• Experience supervising, coaching, and developing farm staff in a positive, accountable work environment.

• At least 4 years of organic vegetable production and farm management experience on a similar or larger scale

• Proven experience independently operating a tractor with various implements.

• Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.

• Demonstrated attention to details, record keeping, and experience building and/or working with efficient systems.

• Carpentry skills, general “fix it” know how, and familiarity with basic tools and equipment maintenance.

• Enthusiasm for local and sustainable agriculture

• Comfortable using point-of-sale systems, inventory software, and Microsoft Office.

• A problem solver with a focus on continuous improvement, who is always learning, open to feedback and takes action as require

PERFERRED:

• Experience in a highly visible leadership position

• Experience growing and managing production in a subtropical or tropical environment

• Certifications: GAP training, Pesticide applicator license

• Retail experience

• Knowledge of fruit production

• Driver's license required to fulfill job duties.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Our Nest is your Nest!

• Qualified candidates must be able to work in various weather conditions, stand for extended periods of time, and are required to repeatedly lift and move up to 50 lbs. This position also requires occasional nights and weekend work.

BENEFITS: The Perks of Eagle Pride!

At Vesta Property Services, we understand the importance of a well-rounded benefits program and are dedicated to providing you with unique benefits that meet your needs and the needs of your family, including your pets. We offer benefits such as medical, dental and vision, life and disability, 401K retirement plans, and additional benefits such as Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account and Pet Discount Plan.

In Addition, we provide support by offering free counseling sessions, legal advice sessions, professional development and an outstanding referral program- to both our Full-time and Part-time staff associates!

AAP/EEO Statement

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, Vesta Property Services has a longstanding commitment to provide a safe, quality-oriented and productive work environment consistent with the standards of the community in which the company operates. Alcohol and drug abuse poses a threat to the health and safety of Vesta Property Services associates and to the security of the company's equipment and facilities. For these reasons, Vesta Property Services is committed to the elimination of drug and alcohol use and abuse in the workplace.

OTHER DUTIES MAY BE ASSIGNED

The above statements reflect the general information considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job and should not be construed as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the position. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.