Masters In Animal Science Jobs in Sandusky, OH (NOW HIRING)

Over the last 40 years, we’ve worked hard to build The Chef’s Garden. It’s a unique niche - home to creativity, innovation, a commitment to excellence, and some of the best produce in the world.  What started as a small family farm has grown to include many more people - still family nonetheless. We’re humbled that you’d consider joining us in the work that we do.   The Retail Farm Supervisor/Fruit Grower function is designed to grow sales revenues, relationships, and increase market share and goodwill on behalf of The Chef’s Garden, Inc. While every day on the farm can look a little different, here are the main responsibilities this role will be expected to execute:   

The Retail Farm Supervisor is responsible for managing a diverse farm, including orchards, small fruit, vineyards, vegetables, grains and cut flowers. They will oversee the implementation and supervision of good agricultural practices and provide direct oversight to the retail farm team. This role requires strong leadership, a deep understanding of sustainable agricultural systems, and the ability to create a harmonious balance between plant and animal systems.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee and lead the scheduling, planning, planting, maintenance, and harvesting of all products grown on our Retail farm, providing a consistent supply of high-quality fruits and vegetables for retail sales.
• Monitor health of all crops, implementing IPM, including spray applications as needed, irrigation management, and soil fertility management.
• Develop and implement strategies for increased productivity and crop quality, and soil heath.
• Work closely with the Retail Operations Manager, Farm Market Manager, and the Livestock & Agrotourism Specialist to develop a 12-month calendar of activities and featured retail products.
• Implement soil regeneration practices, composting, and water conservation techniques.
• Supervise the Livestock Manager and ensure animal husbandry aligns with farm goals.
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.  Responsibilities include: training/teaching employees; planning, assigning, scheduling and directing work;  setting expectations; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Review and support rotational grazing plans, feed strategies, and animal care protocols.
• Foster a collaborative, safe, and productive work environment.
• Maintain records of field and crop production, soil health, and other key metrics.
• Prepare reports on the operation's progress and sustainability outcomes.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Must have or have the ability to obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License within 6 months of hire.
• Experience managing orchards, permaculture systems, and supervising teams desired
• Knowledge of integrated pest management, soil health practices, and regenerative farming.
• Experience with livestock care, particularly in rotational grazing systems.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.

Expectations

• Approach your role in ways that align with the core values of The Chef’s Garden.
  • Service-mentality: People always come first
  • Do things the right way: Commit to the extra step, minute, or method that leads to excellence
  • Commit to Quality: Care about the work that you do
• Help others where necessary and ask for help when needed.
• Develop an understanding of the way that your role contributes to the larger mission of The Chef’s Garden:
  • To grow exceptional vegetables, care for each other and the land, and inspire a vegetable-forward future