Farming Operations Supervisor

A worldwide leader in plant varieties and breeding seeks a Farming Operations Supervisor. This role is very involved in the daily oversight of open field and greenhouse production in two production regions – one near Klamath Falls, OR, and the other near Modesto, CA. Residency near either location strongly desired. The position will move with production between these areas.

The Farming Operations Supervisor is responsible for overseeing efficiency, safety, and compliance of the local / day-to-day operations and ensuring both short and long-term objectives are met. Key responsibilities include planting, quality control, harvesting, processing, inventory management, cost controls, maintenance, administration. Identifies and implements opportunities for improvement on existing protocols. Develops and manages standard operating processes. Assist with overall management of the operations, logistics, and quality control during high and low elevation harvest, making sure roots packing meets customers’ expectations. Provides leadership, coaching, and motivation to develop the management team while ensuring a productive, safe, and quality driven work environment.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Oversees daily activities of the planting, growing, and harvesting operations. Overall planning and scheduling key activities and delegates accordingly to maximize scheduling and real-time utilization of resources.
• Interfaces with direct reports to ensure smooth coordination of scheduling and maximization of schedule adherence; provides input on local conditions, identifies needs and receives direction on real-time staffing increases or decreases.
• Oversees growing programs to ensure adequate product supply, while maximizing profitability.
• Ensures equipment is maintained and in safe operating condition on the farm and in the production facility to optimize throughput and achieve maximum effectiveness.
• Oversees and ensures the quality of the roots throughout the entire production process.
• Liaison with local, regional, and federal agencies to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
• Provides accurate accounting of plant cost and productivity.
• Oversees, directs and manages capital projects.
• Provides a safe and fair working environment for all employees.
• Ensures processes, procedures and training are in place to maximize profitability.
• Responsible for ensuring all safety protocols are followed, including food safety and worker safety.
• Direct oversite of the maintenance of the various sites ensuring equipment is in optimal operational condition.
• Stay up to date with evolving industry trends in growing, technology, etc.
• Ability to lead by example and foster a harmonious and safe work environment.
  

Qualifications / Skills Needed:

• Proven ability to lead diverse groups as well as work as part of a cross-functional team.
• Adequate knowledge of business and management principles (budgeting, planning, resource allocation, human resources).
• Strong analytical skills to support cost management and process improvement opportunities. Working knowledge of financial analysis principles.
• Thorough understanding of manufacturing, quality control, food safety, GMP’s and sanitation. Project management experience.
• Exceptional communicator.
• Superior organizational skills; time management, planning, scheduling, and meeting deadlines.
• Strong computer skills
• Bilingual English/Spanish
  

Education and Experience:

• Five (5) years’ operations management in areas farming, manufacturing, engineering, etc.
• Bachelor’s degree preferably in the following areas: Ag Science, Biology, Plant Science Agronomy, Ag Business/ Economics

The base salary reasonably expected for this role is in the $70,000 - $95,000 per year range. The actual salary for this role will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s skills and experience. Please note that base pay is one aspect of the compensation package. The base pay range indicated here does not include any additional bonuses or benefits for which the position is eligible.

For more information, please contact Tara Schwartz, tara@producecareers.com