Seeking a farming operations leader on behalf of a leading organization who is growing considerably year-after-year. The Director of Operations is responsible for managing, planning, budgeting, delegating functions with respect to the farming, harvesting, and post-harvest handling of the US products, and ensures both short and long-term objectives are met.

Position will manage all aspects of farms in California, including farms near Klamath Falls, OR and near Modesto, CA. Position located in either the Northern California / Klamath Falls area or the Modesto, CA area.  The role will be hands-on during crucial harvest seasons. Relocation to either area may be available.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develops annual budget. Manages and contains costs in line with approved budget.
• Designs and implements sound business strategy for growing, production, storage, packing.
• Oversees growing programs to ensure adequate product supply. Works with Sales team to on supply, quality, harvest timing, working to maximize profitability.
• Ensures equipment is maintained and in safe operating condition on the farm to optimize throughput and achieve maximum effectiveness.
• Liaison with local, regional, and federal agencies to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
• Provides accurate accounting of costs and expenses.
• Provides a safe and fair working environment for all employees.
• Ensures processes, procedures and training is in place to maximize profitability.
• Monitors internal controls to ensure materials purchased are authorized, payroll is correctly issued.
• Responsible for ensuring all safety protocols are followed, including food safety and worker safety.
• Direct oversight 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, food safety, 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 harvesting, quality control, food safety, GMP’s and sanitation.
• Exceptional communicator.
• Superior organizational skills; time management, planning, scheduling, and meeting deadlines.
• Solid computer skills
• Bilingual English/Spanish a plus

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Ten (10) years’ supervisory and / or management in areas of farming and harvesting.
• Bachelor’s degree preferably in the following or related areas: Ag Science, Biology, Plant Science Agronomy, Ag Business/ Economics

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position requires constant movement and ability to sit and stand for long periods, stand, lift, bend, stoop, reach, climb, and twist.  

Salary Range $140,000 - $180,000 per year.

 

Compensation: $140,000 - $180,000