Manager, Farm

Job TitleManager, Farm Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Uvalde Proposed Minimum SalaryCommensurate Job LocationUvalde, Texas Job TypeStaff Job Description Applicants should submit (1) an application letter with a statement of interest/motivation in farming research and farm production, (2) detailed curriculum vitae stating education, experience and qualifications, (3) and a list of three references with contact information as attachments to the completed application. Attachments can be uploaded as one document or multiple attachments can be included. The Farm Manager provides support for field and greenhouse research projects and be involved in the Center farm enterprise, applying efficient crop management strategies for irrigated vegetable and row crops in conventional and organic systems. Responsibilities: OPERATIONAL Coordinate and assist in crop production projects for all research projects with emphasis in Agronomy and Horticulture performing research in conventional and organic fields, under drip, center pivot, and linear irrigation systems and under high tunnel systems Ensure the goals and objectives of each project and the farm are achieved by applying efficient and novel integrated crop management practices that include soil cultivation; precision seeding; transplanting; mulching; monitoring and controlling weeds and pests through IPM; drip and center pivot irrigation; fertilizer application/fertigation; harvesting, which may include the need to lift up to 50 pounds and high physical activity; Plant, maintain and manage cover crops and crop rotations for organic and conventional fields Provide effective control of weeds (mechanically, chemically) to all crops and the Center Ensure the farm is always well-managed, maintained and presentable Use field sensors, weather data, and computer technology to improve productivity and optimize overall farm performance while focusing on effective planning, database and time management Provide support for data collection where needed for Principle Investigators during peak sampling periods. Maintain an accurate and timely record of all farm activities using appropriate software. MANAGEMENT, BUDGETING, SAFETY Identify and secure equipment and supplies needed for farm and crop production projects Strictly adhere to Federal and State laws as well as Texas A&M AgriLife rules and regulations related to financial, pesticide applications, safety, bookkeeping and organic certification compliance. Serve as a member of the safety committee to advise and implement procedures related to agricultural, laboratory and facility operation practices Oversee and coordinate pesticide storage and use according to manufacturer's recommendation and follow agency safety procedures. Ensure workers use appropriate personal protective equipment, provide safety training on farm implements and pesticide applications and maintain current standard operating procedures (SOPs) for field operations Maintain dyed diesel fuel levels and ensure orders for refills are placed Analyze and recommend actions to the Center Director on budgets for contract; that include marketing decisions regarding cash crops to grow for the farm and analyze enterprise profitability MECHANICAL, FACILITIES, OTHER Supervise supporting person(s), hire temporary employees, and coordinate farm operations for specific projects in close coordination with the Special Equipment Mechanic and Business Administrator In conjunction with supporting personnel under supervision, coordinate and be responsible for all the operational and facilities activities at the Center including building structures, service lines, research equipment, safety, landscape and others Follow protocols set by the Special Equipment Mechanic for maintenance and use of centrally assigned machinery and equipment Perform routine field, building and equipment calibrations Maintain and repair tractor and field equipment as needed, making sure all equipment is always operational when needed Provide learning experiences for students enrolled in Ag Sciences or performing research at the Center Interact and identify opportunities by interacting with the regional farming clientele, related industry, and State organizations Stay current with farming practices by attending seminars, educational events, field days, virtual and/or face-to-face trainings Performs other duties as assigned Minimum Requirements: Education – Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience – Three years of related experience in farm management operations. Knowledge of – Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications. Knowledge of farm operations and standard safety procedures. Ability to – Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Physical Requirements – May require some moderate physical activity and exposure to extreme weather conditions. Other Requirements: Must be able to maintain an on-call schedule during evenings, weekends and holidays Ability to establish effective working relationships and work in a team setting Ability to work with minimal supervision Solid math and reasoning skills Ability to supervise other employees if assigned Location: Uvalde is a community of 16,000 people located in the Wintergarden region of southwest Texas, about an hour and a half from San Antonio. Much of the surrounding land is used for irrigated agriculture, although the Hill Country lies just to the north with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Center has about 150 acres of land for crop research/production and houses a staff of more than 50 people with active research programs in agronomy, horticulture, breeding and genetics, plant biochemistry, plant physiology, plant pathology and wildlife disease ecology. Texas A&M AgriLife Research (http://agriliferesearch.tamu.edu) is the state’s premier research agency in agriculture, natural resources, and life sciences. A member of the Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M AgriLife Research collaborates with the Texas A&M University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and many others to help fulfill the Texas A&M System’s land-grant mission of teaching, research, extension, and service. For additional information contact Dr. Daniel I. Leskovar, Center Director by email at d-leskovar@tamu.edu or by phone at 830-988-6124. All inquiries are confidential. All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer committed to diversity. As the largest comprehensive agriculture and life sciences program nationally, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies within the Texas A&M University System With over 5,000 employees, and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, the environment, and the economy of Texas and the nation through education, research, extension and service. If your goal is the pursuit of excellence and your vision is to make a difference in this world, we invite you to explore our opportunities to discover what a career at Texas A&M AgriLife has to offer you. Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Texas A&M AgriLife Research College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University Texas A&M Forest Service Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Texas A&M AgriLife collaborates with Prairie View A&M University, Tarleton State University, Texas A&M University-Commerce, Texas A&M University-Kingsville and West Texas A&M University as well as with other public and private partners. Prospective employee benefits Retirement programs Commitment to inclusive excellence Strategic plan