Assistant Farm Manager
Application Deadline: May 01, 2024
Salary: $25,773
About Arkansas Tech:
Founded in 1909, Arkansas Tech University is a comprehensive public institution with a rich history, maintaining regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and classification as a Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) level III institution. ATU was ranked the No. 1 regional public university in Arkansas by U.S. News and World Report in 2021-22 and 2022-23 and CollegeNET recognizes ATU as the No. 1 institution in Arkansas on its Social Mobility Index. Since 2019, Arkansas Tech has been the host institution for the prestigious Arkansas Governor’s School. The 559-acre Russellville campus, located in the scenic Arkansas River Valley between the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, is just one hour from the capital city of Little Rock. Russellville features a charming blend of historic and modern architecture as well as the recreational opportunities provided by Lake Dardanelle and several state parks. Offering more than 100 undergraduate degree programs and more than 40 graduate degree and certificate programs across five academic colleges and two campuses, Arkansas Tech strives to provide a solid educational foundation for life-long learning to a diverse community. For more information about Arkansas Tech University and the surrounding community, please visit our website at www.atu.edu/hr to find our “Live Here” informational resources.
Position Summary:
Supports the Farm Manager in overseeing daily operations of the university farm, including crop and livestock management, resource allocation, and staff supervision. Assists in budgeting, regulatory compliance, and fostering partnerships. Collaborates on sustainability efforts and contributes to research and educational initiatives. Any person who fills this position will be required to live on-site at lodging provided by employer. Lodging on the premises is required to be able to properly perform job duties of this position, which require availability at all times.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Supporting Farm Operations: Assist the Farm Manager in coordinating and overseeing day-to-day farm activities, including crop cultivation, livestock care, and equipment maintenance.
Staff Coordination: Work closely with farm staff to delegate tasks, provide guidance, and ensure efficient workflow.
Administrative Tasks: Assist with administrative duties such as record-keeping, scheduling, and inventory management.
Crop and Livestock Assistance: Participate in planting, harvesting, and caring for crops and livestock as needed, ensuring adherence to established protocols.
Facility Maintenance: Assist in maintaining farm infrastructure, equipment, and facilities to ensure they remain in good working condition.
Regulatory Compliance: Support efforts to ensure the farm operates in compliance with relevant regulations and safety standards.
Research and Education Support: Aid in research projects and educational programs conducted on the farm, collaborating with academic departments and researchers as directed by the Farm Manager.
Community Outreach: Assist in engaging with stakeholders, including university faculty, students, and local community members, to promote the farm's activities and objectives.
Special Projects: Contribute to special projects and initiatives aimed at improving farm efficiency, sustainability, and productivity as assigned by the Farm Manager.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
For an Assistant Farm Manager, fundamental knowledge in agricultural practices such as crop cultivation, livestock care, and basic farm operations is essential. Familiarity with farm equipment and technology aids in supporting daily activities. Basic understanding of business management principles including budgeting and resource management assists in coordinating tasks effectively. Awareness of regulatory requirements and safety standards ensures compliance and farm safety. A grasp of sustainability practices contributes to environmentally responsible farming. Strong communication and teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with farm staff and stakeholders. Additionally, an eagerness to learn about research trends and educational initiatives in agriculture supports the Farm Manager in implementing innovative practices and educational programs.
Minimum Requirements:
The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus one year of experience in a specialized or related area applicable to work performed.
Additional requirements determined by the institution for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Preferred Qualifications:
Practical experience in farm operations, crop cultivation, or livestock management is highly desirable, demonstrating a solid understanding of agricultural practices.
Previous experience in a supportive or assistant role within a farm setting is beneficial, highlighting familiarity with farm equipment, safety protocols, and basic farm management tasks.
Candidates with experience in coordinating farm activities, supervising staff, or assisting with budget management may have an advantage.
Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as well as a willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks and responsibilities.
Additionally, a passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship aligns well with the objectives of the farm and may be preferred.
Work Location, Environment, and Physical Demands:
A blend of outdoor and indoor settings, depending on the season and tasks at hand.
Outdoor areas include fields, pastures, and livestock enclosures where agricultural activities such as planting, harvesting, and animal care take place.
These areas offer exposure to varying weather conditions and physical labor.
Indoor spaces such as barns, greenhouses, and administrative offices provide shelter and facilities for equipment storage, animal housing, and administrative tasks.
The atmosphere is often dynamic and fast-paced, with seasonal demands and daily responsibilities shaping the rhythm of work.
Teamwork and collaboration are key as farm staff work together to accomplish tasks efficiently and effectively.
The environment fosters a strong sense of connection to nature and agriculture, with opportunities for learning and growth amidst the challenges and rewards of farm life.
Working on a farm demands physical strength and endurance, including lifting heavy objects, bending, operating machinery, and walking or standing for long periods.
Tasks like handling livestock and working in various weather conditions add to the physical demands.
Overall, farm work requires workers to be physically fit and resilient.
What to Submit:
Resume
References
Cover Letter
To be considered for the position of Assistant Farm Manager, all applications must be received and processed through our applicant tracking system Cornerstone prior to the closing date on May 01, 2024, before 6:00 pm central time.
Please go to https://atu.csod.com/ats/careersite/search.aspx?site=1&c=atu to apply now.
This position is subject to a pre-employment criminal background check. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.
Arkansas Tech University is an AA/EOE employer committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.