Farm Manager needed at Vidalia Onion & Vegetable Research Center in Georgia ~ $70k

Filled / Expired

Vidalia Onion & Vegetable Research Center

Email
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Location
Vidalia, GA
Job Type
Full Time, Year round
Salary
$70,000 - Based on Experience
Date Posted
May 17, 2024
Housing Offered
No
Experience
2-5 yrs

The Farm Manager at the Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center’s (VOVRC) primary responsibilities are to oversee and manage the day to day responsibilities of the center. VOVRC utilizes farm labor from Rogers State Prison, and the coordination of this labor force is a major responsibility of this position. The Farm Manager will work with the guard and inmate crew to carry out the day to day operations of the farm. The Farm Manager will also direct and coordinate other farm duties with other UGA staff at the farm. This includes but is not limited to management of farm operations that include: planting, harvesting, tillage, and application of pesticides for research and other trials at the center. The position is also responsible for facility maintenance that includes upkeep of farm equipment, facility buildings, and farmland.

The Farm Manager will work under the direction of the Onion Area Agent to maintain inventory and farm supplies. This will involve a working knowledge of proper UGA purchasing procedures. The Farm Manager will manage purchasing, ordering, and record-keeping of needed inventory for the farm.

The Farm Manager will be responsible for pesticide applications at the farm. This includes proper application, storage, record-keeping, and safe use of pesticides, as well as supervision of other workers who are using pesticides. The Farm Manager will possess and maintain a Georgia Commercial or Private Applicator License.

Responsibilities:
60% of time:

  • Supervise and direct UGA Staff, Corrections Officer, and inmate labor crew with day to day farm operations. This will include prioritizing and assigning farm duties to ensure the needed tasks are done in a timely manner.
  • This is a “working manager” role. Incumbent will independently manage facilities, equipment maintenance, and other farm operations.
  • Incumbent will have hands-on involvement with data collection, including pruning, planting, and harvesting. Additionally, the manager will be expected to ensure that irrigation and frost protection systems are utilized as needed outside of normal work schedules.
  • Works cooperatively with the scientists and county agents to coordinate activities, including hedging, pesticide application, irrigation, equipment repairs, crop harvest and research.
  • Communicates with faculty members and adheres to research protocols.
  • Works with research scientists to develop and improve standard operating procedures.
  • Considers the impact on research and study integrity before making changes to facilities management and equipment.

30% of time:

  • Using the P-Card, purchases supplies and inventory as necessary for farm operations in coordination with the Onion Area Agent and SE District Finance team.
  • Assists in researching capital equipment acquisitions and making purchase recommendations. Participates in short- and long-term strategic planning.
  • Makes recommendation for enhanced workflow and efficiency. Develops replacement timelines for acquisition of new equipment.
  • Maintains computerized records on equipment usage, maintenance, repairs, and related inventory items.
  • Maintains electronic records, including but not limited to field operations, waste, herd management.
  • Maintains excellent relations and communications with Internal and external audiences including scientists, research technicians, county agents, industry and association.

10% of time:

  • Pesticide Safety. Farm Manager will oversee the safe use and storage of pesticide on the farm. This will include maintaining a Commercial or Private applicators license, and keeping proper records of pesticide use on the farm.
  • Works with faculty and county agents to facilitate farm visits for industry, classes, and field days.
  • Complies with all UGA/USG policies, procedures, and training requirements.
  • Other responsibilities and duties as assigned.

Background should include:

  • Excellent working knowledge and experience working with all materials, equipment, tools, methods, and techniques used in establishing blueberry fields, repair and maintenance of equipment, and care of blueberry fields.
  • Demonstrated experience and knowledge in small engine repair and maintenance.
  • Extensive knowledge of plants, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals used in grounds work.
  • Excellent scientific, record-keeping, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and oral/written communication skills are essential.
  • Ability to work in a team setting and independently as directed.
  • Ability to manage a team and demonstrated team-building skills.

Physical Demands : Lift 50 lbs. or more, but not excessive for this position. Adaptive to working in various weather conditions. Stand for various lengths of time at work stations or grounds area to perform needed tasks. Driving as needed to perform job related duties.

TO APPLY:

Apply vida link here: https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/368381

Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center GA Birds Eye

Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center GA

Vidalia onions in field

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([email protected]).

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