Description
Thanksgiving Farm at The Center for Discovery is a large-scale farming operation located within Sullivan County, New York. The farm encompasses over 300 certified organic acres. Each year the farm grows over 60 varieties of vegetables, flowers, herbs and is home to 3 orchards. The farm is rapidly growing and looking to increase production. The Thanksgiving Farm is seeking to hire an Assistant Director of Farm Production. This
hands-on position requires five plus years of extensive farm management and commercial vegetable production experience. During the growing season there is an on-site 300 member CSA, in addition to wholesale and local production. This year round, long-term career opportunity comes with a full benefits package as well as a competitive salary based on experience.
Position Overview The Assistant Director of Farm Production oversees all aspects of our agricultural program, managing crop production, team leadership, and operational excellence. This role requires a skilled agricultural leader with expertise in organic or regenerative farming practices who can drive innovation while maintaining our commitment to sustainable food production.
Key Responsibilities
Production Management
- Assist and direct all farming operations including crop planning, planting, cultivation, harvest, and post-harvest processing
- Manage diverse crop production including vegetables, grains, and field crops
- Oversee equipment operations, maintenance coordination, and facility upkeep
- Ensure compliance with organic certification standards and food safety protocols
- Assist and maintain accurate production records and inventory management systems
Leadership & Collaboration
- Assist and supervise farm production staff and cultivate a culture of safety, respect, and professional growth
- Collaborate with interdepartmental teams to align farm operations with organizational goals
- Develop and monitor operational budgets in partnership with leadership
- Help serve as liaison to local agricultural community and external partners
Innovation & Planning
- Assist to lead annual crop planning aligned with organizational needs
- Stay current with advances in sustainable agriculture and farming technology
- Support research initiatives and on-farm trials
- Assist and implement best practices in soil health, fertility management, and pest control
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of farm management experience with organic or regenerative production methods
- Proven expertise in field crop and vegetable production
- Demonstrated success leading and developing teams
- Proficiency operating and maintaining large farm equipment (tractors, combines, trucks and implements)
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Valid NYS driver's license with clean driving record
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
- Experience with farm management software and precision agriculture technology
- Class A CDL
- Knowledge of Hudson Valley agricultural community
Physical Demands This position requires working both indoors (50%) and outdoors (50%) in all weather conditions. Must be able to operate heavy machinery, perform physical labor including lifting up to 50 lbs, and work extended periods in direct sunlight, heat, cold, and inclement weather.
REPORTS TO: Director of Farm Operations, Chief of DNA
DIRECT REPORTS: Assist with oversight of vegetable teams
Job Type: Full time
FLSA: Exempt
Pay: $65,000 - $85,000 based on experience
