Job description
Verdant Valley Farms is redefining sustainable farming in the Salinas region. We’re seeking an experienced Agriculture Operations Manager to orchestrate field operations, optimize yields, and lead a high-performing team dedicated to responsible agronomy and food safety. This role combines hands-on leadership with data-driven strategies to scale production while preserving soil health and water resources.
As a key member of our leadership team, you’ll partner with agronomists, irrigation specialists, and equipment providers to implement precision agriculture practices. You’ll own the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of crop operations from planting through harvest, ensuring quality, compliance, and on-time delivery to our distribution partners.
Responsibility
- Lead day-to-day farm operations across crops, ensuring safety, quality, and target yields.
- Develop planting schedules, irrigation plans, nutrient management, and harvest calendars.
- Monitor KPIs using farm management software; optimize water, labor, and input efficiency.
- Oversee compliance with environmental, worker safety, and food safety standards (FSMA, HACCP).
- Collaborate with agronomists, equipment vendors, and contractors to implement precision ag and new technologies.
- Lead and coach a team of supervisors and field workers; manage training and performance.
- Plan capital expenditures, manage budgets, and track ROI on agritech investments.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field.
- Minimum 5 years in farm operations management or agribusiness with demonstrated impact.
- Strong knowledge of irrigation systems (drip, micro-sprinkler), soil science, pest, and nutrient management.
- Experience with farm management software (ERP/SCM) and data-driven decision making.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities; adaptable to a dynamic field environment.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a physically demanding outdoor setting.
- Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and food safety regulations (FSMA, HACCP).