Farm Manager

Under the supervision of the Executive Director of the Learning Centers at Fairplex, the Farm Manager provides leadership and Urban Agricultural oversight of the 1.5 acre specialty crop farm. The Farm Manager assures operations are consistent with TLC and Fairplex’s vision, mission, culture and strategic plan. The Farm Manager is responsible for all aspects of the organization’s farm agricultural function, including, but not limited to, supervision of all farm operation, small bird and rabbits, and future development; liaising with third party operators. Leads in the planning and project management for potential farm expansion, crop maintenance, agriculture retail and education on all levels of The Learning Centers as they relate to agriculture.  The Farm Manager works very closely with the Facilities Director to ensure the most practical and productive use of all Fairplex resources.  The Farm Manger develops, monitors and implements department and business unit plans and budgets. During the annual L.A. County Fair, leads the organization in varied operational activities.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversees all activities of the Farm, and provides agricultural expertise throughout all aspects of the Farm, including, but not limited to urban farm planning, crop selection, agricultural maintenance, Farm Development, potential Farm retail, and urban agriculture teaching and instructing.
• Uses sound judgment to ensure that operating efficiencies are maximized in all areas including, but not limited to, staffing levels, provision of services, and allocation of resources. Ensures all purchasing efficiencies are fully utilized.
• Responsible for producing and achieving the goals of the Farm annual budgets
• Develops and implements policies and procedures that facilitate the efficient operation of the Farm.
• Contracts and negotiates with vendors for equipment and supplies.
• Conducts interviews, hires, trains, mentors, disciplines and terminates department staff.
• Works regularly with TLC Volunteer Ambassador program staff to co-supervise and guide volunteer ambassadors committed to service at the Farm.
• Works closely with other Fairplex departments in determining the Farm layout for the annual LA County Fair.
• Takes necessary steps to ensure that all company financial goals, including revenue targets are met or exceeded.
• Supports the Mission and Values of Fairplex and The Learning Centers.

• As Farm Manager oversees and sets a tone of agriculture excellence for all platforms of The Farm on and off this campus.
• Oversee annual Farm capital improvement plan
• Other duties as assigned