Master Farmer

About the Role

Lead, oversee, and participate in the complex and difficult work of staff responsible for the care and maintenance of animals and crops at the Biological Park Farm. Assist in the design, set-up, and planting of crops, and perform a variety of technical tasks related to assigned areas.

Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, train, and review the work of staff responsible for maintaining and caring for farm animals and plants/crops within the BioPark Farm.
• Plan, direct, and participate in the care of farm animals and plants; plant, clean, weed, prune, and maintain the farm as required.
• Determine project and daily tasks, including the sequence of tasks for farm maintenance; oversee and participate in the work of the farm crew.
• Assist in the design, set-up, and planting of crops; prune, spray, and maintain the orchard; design, install, maintain, and repair irrigation systems.
• Train assigned employees in livestock and plant care methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Verify the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper methods, and compliance with standards.
• Prepare diets for livestock; clean tools, equipment, and work areas used in diet preparation; maintain food storage containers.
• Maintain records on daily activities, including animal height and weight; observe and report signs of illness or injury in animals.
• Maintain inventory of supplies, produce, and equipment; service and operate farming and irrigation equipment; order supplies as needed.
• Assist in the training of assigned animals, guiding them through daily routines according to established schedules.
• Respond to public inquiries courteously, providing information and resolving complaints efficiently.
• Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.
• Participate in pest control operations as needed.
• May assist veterinarians in minor operations or related activities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED, supplemented by thirty (30) credit hours of vocational or college-level coursework in zoology, biology, botany, horticulture, or animal science.
• Three (3) years of animal care or farm maintenance experience in a zoo, garden, farm, or other agricultural facility.
• Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver’s License or ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of hire.
• Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within 6 months of hire date.

Working Conditions

Field environment with exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, animal body fluids, and inclement weather. Work may involve being in or near water or underground.

Physical Demands

Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for heavy, moderate, or light lifting; bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling; and walking or standing for prolonged periods.