Farm Manager position - Appleton Farms, Ipswich MA

The Trustees is an organization with a fascinating past and an exciting future. Our places are open to all and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in what we do. Founded in 1891, by a group of visionary volunteers, we preserve, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts and work to protect special places across the state. We have helped protect more than 60,000 acres, including 26,000+ acres on 116 reservations that are all open to the public. We are a nonprofit conservation organization funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and more than 50,000 members.

Appleton Farms in Ipswich, MA is one of the oldest continuously operating farms in the United States and at 1,000 acres, one of the largest in Massachusetts. Established in 1638 by a land grant to Samuel Appleton, it is now owned and operated by The Trustees. The CSA operation was founded on the farm in 2002 and currently includes 550 members. The purpose of the CSA is to continue the farm’s rich agricultural legacy, demonstrate an economically viable and sustainable agricultural model, and provide opportunities for the public to learn about local agriculture and food systems and to engage with Appleton Farms and with The Trustees.

Position Summary:
The Trustees is seeking a CSA Manager to oversee the overall management responsibility for the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) operation and all vegetable production at Appleton Farms in Ipswich, MA. Responsibilities include crop production planning and management of fields, systems and infrastructure; staff hiring, training and supervision; budget planning, tracking and management; equipment procurement, operation and maintenance; CSA distribution; and member and community relations. The CSA Manager reports to the Vegetable & CSA Program Manager, and works closely with the General Manager of Appleton Farms and other non-CSA farm staff. The position is full time, year-round with a seasonally variable work schedule.
Specifically, the CSA Manager’s responsibilities include:
Oversee the production of crops on a commercial scale to meet the needs of a large CSA at a public-facing farm, generally following the organic standards (the farm is not certified organic but organic methods are utilized).
Care for and maintain farm fields, equipment, tools and infrastructure.
Supervise, recruit, train and manage CSA staff, modeling and ensuring best practices in field work, visitor engagement, food safety, and equipment safety.
Market and distribute CSA shares and manage shareholder relations and communications, including writing a regular newsletter or blog, hosting shareholder events, responding to shareholder questions and concerns, and hiring and managing share room staff as needed.
Prepare, oversee and manage operating and capital budget within Trustees financial systems and schedules.
Plan and manage all field work, from greenhouse seeding to harvesting.
Manage and care for a fleet of tractors & equipment; basic mechanic skills required.
Direct or manage special projects including fencing, irrigation, carpentry and other capital projects.
Work effectively and cooperatively with other Trustees staff.
Involve and manage volunteers, visitors, and the public in the CSA operation where appropriate.
Participate in the organization’s sustainability and ecology work, help promote membership, and support fundraising efforts of other Trustees staff.
Understand and educate CSA staff on the strategic goals of the organization as outlined in the Strategic Plan, Trustees 2017
Other duties as assigned with or without accommodation.

Qualifications

At least 5 years experience in commercial-scale vegetable crop production is required.
At least 4 years of tractor and equipment operating experience is required, as well as basic mechanical skills.
A strong understanding of CSA, agricultural principles, whole- farm planning, crop rotation, soil health, and general ecological principles.
Demonstrated ability in maintaining infrastructure (greenhouses, irrigation systems, barns) and farm equipment.
Experience managing a team, including training, recruitment, and hiring.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are critical. The CSA Manager works with all kinds of people: the farm team, visitors and CSA members, the rest of the Appleton Farms property staff, the broader Trustees staff, as well as the local and regional farm community.
A good attitude, willingness to be flexible, and a commitment to achieving the goals of the CSA and The Trustees are essential.
Possess a strong appreciation for farming, the land, and the agricultural and cultural history of Massachusetts.
Knowledge of and connections within the Massachusetts or New England farm community a plus.
Other Requirements:
Valid driver’s license required for driving Trustees vehicles. Employment is contingent on a satisfactory driver’s record check.
Satisfactory CORI (criminal background check).
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Work on weekends, evenings, and some holidays will be required.

Benefits and Salary:
The Trustees offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, vacation, sick and personal time, as well as the option to participate in our 401(k) and 529 savings plans. Staff housing is also provided as part of the compensation package. We also offer the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team across the Commonwealth who love the outdoors, who love the distinctive charms of New England, and who believe in celebrating and protecting our special places, for everyone, forever.
No phone calls please.

In addition to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, The Trustees of Reservations aim to create a thriving, inclusive workplace that values each member of our team. We aspire to reflect and effectively serve the residents and communities of Massachusetts who are at the core of our mission.

Appleton Farms in Ipswich, MA