What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Demonstration Manager position at Federation of Southern Cooperatives/Land Assistance Fund?
Job Description:
The Farm Demonstration Manager is a professional technical assistance provider and problem solver. The position requires developing and managing a practical demonstration site at the Federation's Rural Training & Research Center (RTRC) located in Epes, AL to serve as a model for small farmers and cooperatives from over the organization's membership base. The position reports directly to the Director of the RTRC and as part of a team of Farm Development Field Staff - all being accountable to the Executive Director, the Board of Directors, and ultimately the membership (farmers, cooperatives, and rural communities).
Typical work activities:
It is vital to the organization (FSC/LAF) that effective relationships with farmers, cooperatives, and rural communities are established and developed. The ability to identify, investigate, and solve problems is essential and good communication skills are a major requirement. The work has an increasing emphasis on marketing, sustainable agriculture, environmental and conservation issues, and practical solutions to all of these issues are necessary.
Typical activities include, buy may not be limited:
- working with Project Director and Field Staff to implement a common approach to development that addresses the needs of a wide, multi-state audience.
- developing a 5–10-acre demonstration farm site utilizing sustainable practices and small-scale irrigation techniques.
- analyzing production and returns of demonstration site.
- preparing new or modified operational strategies.
- investigating the causes of problems and formulating possible solutions.
- planning and organizing trials to assess their effectiveness.
- developing and/or participating in agricultural production and irrigation training activities with small farmers.
- setting up demonstrations for improved vegetable production.
- organizing demonstrations.
- documenting activities and results.
- communicating effectively to managers and members.
The work requires meeting agreed deadlines and operating within agreed budgets. The work also includes participating as a member of the team at the Federation's Rural Training & Research Center. This includes working on joint projects such as the Annual Meeting and other overall training events. It may also include special work activities, as assigned, beyond those specifically listed in this job description.
Education:
Requirements for the post include: an appropriate academic background and/or significant agricultural/farming experience, necessary knowledge/experience of sustainable agriculture practices, small scale & drip irrigation systems, and marketing, experience operating equipment, basic computer skills, good communication skills, ability to work independently, (self-motivated) and as part of a team.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $35,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Shift:
- 8 hour shift
- Morning shift
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Ability to Relocate:
- Epes, AL 35460: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $35,000 - $50,000