Farm Manager

Job Summary:

Thermiculture Management, Inc. is a multigenerational, local family farming company. The Farm Manager will oversee and manage the daily operations of our ranches to ensure optimal production and maintenance of high-quality crops. This role involves managing Ranch Foremen and supervising staff, coordinating agricultural tasks, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards. The ideal candidate is a highly tech-savvy, hands-on leader with strong agricultural experience, excellent organizational skills, and a proven ability to lead a diverse team. Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is required.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Ranch Management and Supervision

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the ranches, including but not limited to planting, pruning, harvesting, weed suppression, irrigation management, nutrition application, and infrastructure maintenance.
• Lead, train, and manage a team of Ranch Foremen and ranch workers, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and in compliance with company standards.
• Ensure all safety protocols and OSHA standards are enforced and followed across all ranch locations.
• Communicate and collaborate with other employees to coordinate tasks, share information/resources, and ensure efficient and cohesive ranch operations.

2. Technology and Innovation

• Implement, utilize, and manage agricultural technologies, with a primary focus on software related to field automation, soil moisture monitoring, weather tracking, and irrigation reporting.
• Leverage data and analytics from these reporting systems to make informed, high-level decisions on irrigation schedules, resource allocation, and overall ranch optimization.

3. Irrigation and Crop Management

• Oversee the overarching strategy, operation, maintenance, and repair of all irrigation systems, ensuring optimal water distribution for all crops.
• Coordinate and schedule water orders with the Coachella Valley Water District to ensure adequate water supply for ranch operations.
• Work closely with agricultural specialists and foremen to implement integrated pest management (IPM) and soil fertility programs.

4. Equipment and Infrastructure Maintenance

• Ensure all ranch equipment (tractors, ATVs, irrigation pumps, etc.) is in working order and arrange for repairs, services, or replacements as needed.
• Maintain fencing, gates, storage containers, and other essential ranch infrastructure in a clean, organized manner.

Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in managing complex agricultural operations.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (Required).
• Exceptional leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with a proven track record of leading hands-on teams.
• Multitasking, self-motivating, and possessing the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Highly tech-savvy with proven proficiency in field automation platforms and digital reporting tools for soil moisture, weather, and irrigation.
• Physical stamina to perform duties in varying weather conditions.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain a valid driver's license in good standing to operate company trucks.

Work Schedule:

This is a full-time, salaried (exempt) position requiring the flexibility to adjust to the requirements of seasonal changes, crop cycles, and immediate operational demands.

Physical Demands:

This position requires physical stamina and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Tasks may involve lifting and carrying heavy objects (up to 50 lbs), operating machinery, walking or standing for extended periods, and performing manual labor alongside the team when necessary. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment:

The work environment for a farm manager is primarily outdoors, often in remote or rural settings. The role involves exposure to varying weather conditions and requires working around heavy machinery and agricultural equipment. The position requires flexibility to address urgent issues outside of standard working hours and the ability to maintain safety and efficiency in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive wage based on experience and qualifications.
• Health insurance, retirement benefits, and benefits as outlined in the company handbook.
• Opportunity for professional development and advancement within the organization.
• The chance to work in a dynamic and rewarding industry with a dedicated team of professionals.

How to Apply:

Submit a resume and cover letter highlighting relevant experience and qualifications.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance

Work Location: In person