Farm Manager

At Mortimer Farms, we are a proud family-run farm located in Dewey, Arizona, with a 324-acre operation with a diverse range of crops. We balance the mindset of large-scale production farming with the attention to detail and hands-on approach of a smaller farm. We utilize all tools in our farming toolbox to grow food for our community, care for the land, and conserve water. Our focus is on sustainable, efficient farming that produces high-quality crops.

160 acres of our farmland is dedicated to vegetable production. We also grow in 5 greenhouses during the winter season. We grow more than 50 varieties of crops, from staples like tomatoes, squash, and leafy greens, to specialty items like blackberries, strawberries, peaches, apples, and more. The remaining acreage is used for production of field corn, pumpkins, and forage crops, supporting retail and wholesale customers, as well as our livestock production needs.

We run a professional farm operation with the same level of efficiency and planning as large-scale farms, but with the diversity, flexibility and personalized care of a smaller farm. Our approach emphasizes practicality and results – from pest management (using conventional and IPM methods when necessary) to crop rotation and soil health practices.

At Mortimer Farms, we pride ourselves on balancing cutting-edge farming technologies with hands-on techniques to ensure our crops thrive. Our produce is sold to U-pick customers, retail customers in our Market & Deli, and at 10 farmer’s markets around the state. We also supply wholesale customers and use our crops in our on-property restaurant and catering services.

As the Farm Manager at Mortimer Farms, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of food production, from planning and preparation to harvest and distribution. Your role encompasses strategic planning, operational management, team leadership, and customer engagement to ensure the farm's success and sustainability.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agricultural production, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to lead a team effectively. Being bilingual is a requirement.

Key Responsibilities in coordination with the farm owners:
Crop Planning and Management:

• Develop and implement crop production plans, including field preparation, irrigation scheduling, planting, and crop care.
• Monitor crop health and growth, identify pest and disease issues, and implement appropriate control measures.
• Coordinate harvest schedules and ensure timely and efficient harvesting of crops to meet market demand.

Order Preparation and Distribution:

• Prepare orders for wholesale distribution, stock the farm market and deli, supply farm-to-table kitchens, and participate in farmers' markets.
• Ensure accurate packing, labeling, and quality control of produce for distribution to various outlets.
• Coordinate with sales and marketing teams to meet customer requirements and delivery schedules.

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Develop long-term strategic plans for farm operations, including crop rotation, soil management, and infrastructure development.
• Implement strategies to optimize resource utilization, minimize waste, and improve operational efficiency.
• Monitor industry trends and market conditions to identify opportunities for growth and innovation.

Team Leadership and Management:

• Supervise farm workers and seasonal laborers, providing guidance, training, and support as needed.
• Schedule and assign tasks, monitor performance, and ensure compliance with farm policies and procedures.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, safety, and professional development.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance:

• Operate and maintain farm equipment and machinery, ensuring proper functioning and safety compliance.
• Develop and implement a preventive maintenance program to minimize downtime and equipment failure.
• Train farm staff on equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols.

Farm Organization and Cleanliness:

• Keep all farm buildings and storage organized, clutter-free, and clean.
• Oversee that farm workers do the same.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance.

Food Safety Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to food safety standards and regulations.
• Implement and maintain food safety protocols throughout the farm operation, from field to packaging and distribution.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with food safety requirements and maintain accurate records.

Crop Diversity and Rotation:

• Plan and implement crop rotation strategies to maintain soil fertility, prevent disease buildup, and optimize yields.
• Explore opportunities to diversify crop selection to meet market demand and enhance farm sustainability.
• Research and experiment with new crops and varieties suited to local growing conditions and consumer preferences.

Environmental Stewardship:

• Implement sustainable farming practices to minimize environmental impact and promote biodiversity.
• Manage soil health through cover cropping, composting, and other soil conservation techniques.
• Incorporate water conservation measures and efficient irrigation practices to optimize water use efficiency.

Coordination with Ranch Manager:

• Collaborate with the ranch manager as needed for departmental success.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in farming and agriculture.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and efficiency gains within the farm operation.
• Encourage innovation and creativity among farm team members to drive continuous improvement and adaptation to changing market conditions.

Customer Interaction and Education:

• Engage with customers during farm tours and field trips.
• Educate them about the farming industry.

Additional Qualifications:

• Strong background in agronomy, with a focus on plant health, soil health, crop rotation, and diverse crop management.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and physical stamina required.
• Knowledge of pest management techniques, including Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and conventional methods when necessary.
• Proficiency in farm management software and technology to track crop yields, manage labor, and optimize farm operations.
• Experience in irrigation management, including drip irrigation, pivot irrigation, and water conservation strategies.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically to address farm-related challenges.
• Ability to manage and mentor a diverse team, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and productivity.
• Experience with tractor operation and other farm equipment, including maintenance and repairs.
• Strong communication skills for interacting with team members, suppliers, and customers.
• Financial acumen to manage farm budgets, track expenses, and maximize profitability.
• Knowledge of farm-to-market logistics and wholesale distribution processes.
• Ability to lift heavy loads and perform physically demanding tasks as needed.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not exhaustive of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications associated with the role. Responsibilities may evolve based on farm needs and industry developments.