Farm Manager (Project Manager)

The Farm Manager (Project Manager) is responsible for the management and success of an agrivoltaics demonstration farm in Eldorado, Illinois growing specialty crops including annual vegetables, herbs and flowers. Agrivoltaics is the practice of simultaneously using land for both solar energy production and agriculture. This role includes managing crop planning and harvests, overseeing seasonal farm staff, coordinating logistics, ensuring safety protocols are followed for working within a solar site, coordination with solar site management team, and collaborating with Food Works team members to tell the story of the Farm through outreach and communications. The purpose of the Farm is to demonstrate the viability of agrivoltaics in the region, train beginning or transitioning farmers in sustainable growing practices, and produce food for consumption in Saline and surrounding counties. The Farm Manager will work closely with Food Works’ leadership team to maintain operations and ensure the project meets organizational, community, and budgetary goals. This position reports to the Executive Director. Farm Operations: Manage all aspects of Farm production, including: -Crop planning -Planting and harvesting schedules -Post-harvest handling and logistics -Equipment use and maintenance -Selection and procurement of seeds, tools, and supplies -Ensure compliance with farm safety standards and operational guidelines -Communicate regularly with the Sol Systems site team and Food Works leadership Staff Management: Train and supervise two part-time seasonal farm employees (25 hrs/week each) Recruit seasonal farm staff during Winter 2025–26 in collaboration with the Communications & Special Events Coordinator. Communications & Outreach Provide regular farm updates and content (photos, stories, key milestones) to support: -Weekly e-newsletter Field Notes -Social media -Website and press releases -Annual report and marketing efforts -Participate in occasional community outreach meetings and speaking engagements in collaboration with the Communications & Special Events Coordinator. Budget & Administration: Oversee the Farm project budget in coordination with Food Works staff (Executive Director, Operations Coordinator) Monitor project spending and report on resource needs and budget alignment Team & Organizational Participation: Work at the Farm site in Eldorado growing specialty crops and overseeing part-time employees. The Farm Manager is expected to be on site as often as necessary for successful production. This is anticipated to be 1-2 times per week in the winter of 2025-26 and 3-5 times per week beginning in March 2026. Conduct remaining work virtually or from the Food Works office in Carbondale. Participate in regular staff meetings and organization-wide events (e.g., Annual Meeting) Ideal Candidate Will Bring: Experience in small-scale or sustainable farming systems Strong skills in farm planning, harvesting, and equipment maintenance Experience managing seasonal staff or farm crews Willingness to prioritize safety requirements and communicate with the solar site management team Experience with budget management and resource tracking Excellent communication and collaboration skills Comfortable generating written content and farm updates for public outreach Ability to work independently, with flexibility to travel to the farm site and represent Food Works at community events Willingness to learn and use G-mail and Google Drive (Docs, Sheets, Slides) to communicate with other team members Commitment to local food systems and community-based agriculture Ability to work outdoors in all seasons, walk up to 1 mile on uneven terrain & lift up to 50lbs. Reliable transportation and willingness to travel within the region