Field Manager

Hiring Organization: Bardenhagen Berries / Homestead Hill CSA
Employment type: Full-Time
Job Location: Lake Leelanau, MI
Application Due Date: May 15, 2022

Bardenhagen Berries/Homestead Hill CSA

7990 E. Horn Road, Lake Leelanau, MI 49653 / bardenhagenberries.com

JOB DESCRIPTION: FIELD MANAGER

Background:

Bardenhagen Berries is a 180-acre centennial family farm located in the heart of scenic Leelanau County. We are committed to producing a diversity of high-quality agricultural products to benefit the local community, while preserving the land, soil, and water for future generations. For decades the farm has been dedicated solely to fruit production, but in recent years has transitioned to more a more diverse mix of crops which now includes approximately 7.5 acres of bearing strawberries, 6 acres of sweet cherries, and 2+ acres of vegetables and cut-flowers (marketed through our Homestead Hill CSA). Our produce is marketed and consumed locally through direct sales at farmers markets, our roadside farmstand, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), and local wholesale accounts. Two hoophouses (6480 sq ft) are used to produce transplants for the farm, as well as tomatoes and cucumbers during summer and an array of salad greens in spring and fall. The farm utilizes integrated pest management for fruit, and organic growing practices for vegetables and cut flowers. The farm is verified by the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and is compliant with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). In 2018 a 128-panel solar array was installed to offset 100% electricity of the used on the farm. A team of family, local labor, interns, and migrant seasonal workers are key to the success of the farm.

Description:

We are seeking an enthusiastic, collaborative, and skilled individual to join our team as Field Manager. The primary responsibility is assisting with the successful planning, coordination, and implementation of two acres of mixed vegetable & flower field production as well as 6,480 sq. ft. of hoophouse structures. The Field Manager would also play a key role in helping to manage cover crops on 20+ acres. This position reports and works directly with the farm operators regularly throughout the work week. The ideal candidate has at least 1 year of experience producing vegetables (using organic practices) and the ability to develop efficient workflows; implement clear and transparent operational procedures; promote a safe work and positive environment and is committed to the overall farm goals.

Qualifications

Minimum of 1-year full season farming experience, preferably organic mixed vegetable production, including high tunnel and propagation experience.
Be physically able to stand, kneel, and walk outdoors for long periods of time in all weather conditions and able to lift 50+ lbs on a regular basis.
Experience in the maintenance of crop production, food safety, pesticide applications (OMRI approved), organic certification, soil health, and other production related documentation.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Experience with upkeep and maintenance of facilities and farm equipment
Experience operating a 50 horse power tractor with a loader is ideal, as well as skill with and understanding of using various hand tools.
Strong communication, listening, and interpersonal skills
Experience managing groups of people that include staff, interns, and volunteers.

Responsibilities

Maintain all vegetable & flower production areas of farm for optimal plant production, plant health, and harvest.

Assist with preparing fields and hoophouses for planting. Depending on experience, this may include use of hand tools, BCS, and/or 4 wheeled tractor with various attachments (power harrow, tiller, flail mower, etc.).
Assist with overseeing seeding and planting of variety of vegetable and flower crops and all related crop management strategies (irrigation, pruning, trellising, mulching, side dressing, etc).
Provide leadership to farm crew assisting with vegetable and flower production.
Regularly observe fields to monitor soil and plant health and production.
Implement pest-, disease-, and weed-control, using organic practices.
Assist with managing soil building program, including cover cropping, crop rotation, and composting.
Manage irrigation planning, installation, monitoring, and maintenances.
Ensure proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies
Work with harvest manager to ensure all produce is harvested/washed and ready on time for various outlets including: 60 member CSA, three weekly farmers markets, a roadside farmstand (with online ordering system), and various wholesale accounts.

Provide critical support for harvest of strawberry and cherry crops as needed (may include assistance with delivery, quality control, forklift driving.)
Assist with managing 20 acres of cover crops.
Assisting with establishment of other long-term projects (such as new pasture, fruit trees, brambles, mushroom log production, hoophouse construction).
Assist with maintaining farm infrastructure, equipment, and landscape.
Operate tractors and equipment safely and effectively
Promote continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Compensation: This is a full-time position with possible employment into at least early November. Opportunities for year around employment are also possible. We offer competitive pay commensurate with experience ($16/hr +). For applicants who can commit to working a full season there is optional on farm housing.

To Apply: Send an email letter and resume to bardenhagenberries@gmail.com with your interest, background and availability.