Farm Director

About the Role

The Farm Director at Carnes Crossroads, an award-winning agrihood community of more than 3,600 homes in Goose Creek, South Carolina, will oversee six acres of organic vegetables and fruit distributed to residents through a retail Farm Share program. This role involves managing production, a You-Pick Garden, and a Farm Store, with support from an experienced consulting team, a dedicated farm crew, and an engaged resident community.

Responsibilities

• Manage farm crew and all aspects of vegetable, fruit, and herb production, including seeding, planting, pest, disease, and fertility management, field cultivation, irrigation, installation and repairs, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and record keeping.
• Uphold product and food safety standards.
• Oversee the year-round Farm Share program, with peak production from May through November.
• Maintain farm infrastructure and landscape, including the cleanliness and orderliness of the store, barn, and surroundings, with support from contracted vendors.
• Manage farm purchasing, inventory, and operating budget within established guidelines.
• Foster resident engagement by leading workshops, farm tours, attending monthly farmers markets, and hosting events.
• Provide friendly customer service in person and by phone.
• Foster team spirit and positive working relations with POA, Developer staff, and resident volunteers.
• Assist the POA team with events as needed.

Requirements

• Ability to work in various weather conditions, stand for extended periods, and repeatedly lift and move up to 50 lbs.
• Occasional nights and weekend work required.
• Experience supervising, coaching, and developing farm staff in a positive, accountable work environment.
• At least 4 years of organic vegetable production and farm management experience on a similar or larger scale.
• Proven experience independently operating a tractor with various implements.
• Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, record keeping, and experience building and/or working with efficient systems.
• Carpentry skills, general “fix-it” know-how, and familiarity with basic tools and equipment maintenance.
• Enthusiasm for local and sustainable agriculture.
• Comfortable using point-of-sale systems, inventory software, and Microsoft Office.
• Problem solver with a focus on continuous improvement, open to feedback, and takes action as required.
• Valid driver’s license required to fulfill job duties.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a highly visible leadership position.
• Certifications: GAP training, Pesticide applicator license.
• Retail experience.
• Knowledge of fruit production.

Pay

$75,000–$85,000, based on experience.