Farm Manager at Aldelano Organic Foods Ltd

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Farm Manager to oversee the cultivation and management of our open-field habanero production. This individual will be responsible for ensuring the optimal growth, health, and harvesting of the crops while utilizing strong computer skills for farm management tasks. The ideal candidate will have experience with farm operations, precision agriculture tools, and data-driven decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

Farm Operations Management:

• Oversee daily activities related to the cultivation, irrigation, planting, fertilization, pest management, and harvesting of habanero peppers.
• Implement best farming practices to ensure maximum yield and crop quality.
• Ensure compliance with all local agricultural regulations and safety standards.

Staff Supervision:

• Manage and coordinate a team of farm workers, ensuring efficient workflow and timely completion of tasks.
• Provide training, guidance, and motivation to farm workers to improve overall productivity and skills.

Computer & Data Management:

• Utilize farm management software and spreadsheets for tracking planting schedules, yield predictions, and input costs.
• Use GPS-based tools and drones for field monitoring, ensuring optimal planting densities, irrigation coverage, and pest control.
• Analyze collected data to make informed decisions regarding irrigation schedules, fertilization, and pest control.
• Monitor environmental factors (temperature, humidity, soil moisture) using IoT systems, adjusting operations accordingly.

Crop Health & Pest Management:

• Identify early signs of disease, pests, or environmental stress, implementing corrective actions.
• Collaborate with agronomists and external experts for pest and disease prevention and control strategies.

Budgeting & Resource Management:

• Maintain accurate records of labor, input costs, and farm equipment.
• Help create and manage farm budgets to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Ensure proper maintenance of farm equipment, machinery, and tools.

Harvest & Post-Harvest Management:

• Oversee the harvest process, ensuring peppers are picked at optimal maturity.
• Manage post-harvest storage, handling, and preparation for sale or processing.

Reporting & Communication:

• Regularly report to senior management regarding farm progress, yields, and any challenges.
• Use computer tools to create performance reports, production forecasts, and other relevant data.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in farm management or horticulture, preferably in hot pepper production or similar crops.
• Proven experience with open-field farming operations, irrigation systems, and crop management.

Technical Skills:

• Strong computer skills with experience in farm management software (e.g., Trimble Ag Software, FarmLogs, Ag Leader, etc.).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for managing farm data and creating reports.
• Familiarity with precision agriculture tools such as GPS, sensors, and drone technology.

Education:

• A degree or certification in Agricultural Science, Horticulture, or a related field is preferred, but not required with sufficient experience.

Other Skills:

• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.