Description
Crop Manager
UVM Food Systems Research Institute
Work location: Charlotte, VT
The position of Crop Manager is located at the co-managed University of Vermont (UVM) and USDA-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Northeast Crop and Livestock Research Station (NECLRS) at Nordic Farm located in Charlotte, VT. NECLRS operates on 400 acres of leased land within a larger privately-owned farm. Research explores diverse subject matter spanning the food and farming systems of Vermont, including perennial forages, annual row crops and cereals, and pastures. This position conducts farming operations in support of feeding beef cows, calves, and finish steers, and to manage crops in support of research on grain and forage production. The position requires skill in operating and maintaining heavy farm equipment, precisely following safety and research protocols, communication with colleagues and scientists, and detail-oriented record keeping.
The Crop Manager independently plans and carries out assignments in close communication with the ARS Research Agronomist, USDA Agronomy Technician, and other research partners.
This is a full-time, non-exempt, union-represented position with full benefits.
Deadline: Open until filled, with priority given to applications submitted by the end of February
How to Apply: Visit University of Vermont Employment Opportunities | Crop Manager to apply or https://www.uvmjobs.com/postings/85333
Requirements
This position requires significant self-direction, technical experience, and effective communication with varied audiences.
A combination of formal and experiential education is required:
High school degree, with eight to ten years of in-field experience;
Associate’s degree in a related field, with five years of in-field experience; or
Bachelor’s degree in a related field, with four years of in-field experience.
In field experience should include working as a crop consultant, manager, or leader of crop operations on a commercial or research farm with at least 20+ acres of hay, grain, and/or silage production, including heavy equipment operation, setup and maintenance as well as planning. Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain, and driver’s check required. Ability to obtain or maintain pesticide applicators licenses.
Skill in communicating both orally and in writing to provide guidance and instruction to employees, to discuss changes for plans and work projects, interface with the public, and to keep UVM/USDA partners informed of critical needs. Must possess strong organizational skills.
Demonstrated knowledge of applying a wide range of conventional and organic farming methods, including (a) techniques for safely operating heavy agricultural equipment; and (b) grain, feed, and forage crop management methodologies, including scouting, field preparation, planting, fertilizing, pest management, harvest, and storage.
Mechanical aptitude to operate, maintain, calibrate, and repair farming equipment.
Working knowledge of rules, regulations, and practical requirements related to crop management, including of workplace safety, chemical applications, and land and water stewardship.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and OneDrive. This includes the use of spreadsheets for basic budget and financial management purposes and the documentation of all field operations in a way that is accessible and usable by researchers.
