About the farm:
Full Circle Farm is a brand new 11-acre nonprofit, educational farm in the heart of Silicon Valley. Nestled in a residential neighborhood on the back half of a local middle school, we are part of a community-focused, educational organization dedicated to bringing fresh local food and environmental and nutrition education to both students and community. 

We currently have 2.5 acres in production, and are looking for an experienced farmer to help us expand. The ideal candidate will be wholly dedicated to sustainable farming methods and utilizing our community’s involvement.

Full Circle Farm hopes to create a model system of growing healthy food for the school district and immediate community, with an emphasis on bringing affordably-priced produce to low income households. It will also serve as an inspiring green open space that showcases the importance of a healthy local food system, good nutrition and sustainable building and agricultural practices.

As Farm Manager, you will serve as the public face for an open and welcoming farming operation. You will coordinate all aspects of food production, from planning and production of a mix of crops for sale in diverse markets, to directing farm staff, interns, and volunteers, to developing and overseeing distribution and sales. You will work with and report to the Executive Staff.

Primary responsibilities:

• Plan, grow and monitor crops and fruit trees, coordinating all aspects of farming and orchard operations
• Develop distribution infrastructure for diverse markets and coordinate sales, harvest and delivery of product to the school district, farm stand, and other customers
• Develop and implement organic soil fertility plan and pest management plan
• Oversee tillage and cultivation, including safe operation of farm equipment; oversee irrigation, and greenhouse propagation
• Execute basic maintenance of farm equipment, vehicles, buildings, irrigation system and greenhouse
• Maintain planting and production records, including meeting certification requirements for farmer’s markets
• Manage farm staff, train apprentices, and lead volunteers
• Work at least one Saturday per month

Skills and qualifications:

• Commitment to Full Circle Farm’s mission & vision
• Demonstrated communication and interpersonal skills, able to work with people of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds of all ages with respect and patience
• Commitment to organic, sustainable farming methods
• 2-3 seasons organic farming experience, including management of farm staff and/or volunteers
• Able to drive a tractor and utilize farm equipment in a safe and effective manner
• Able to effectively manage a small farm labor team and diverse volunteer base
• Knowledge of soils, composting, and cover cropping
• Experience with drip irrigation equipment and practices
• Excellent record keeping and good computer skills
• High standards of ethics and integrity
• Understanding/flexibility around the unique challenges of starting a new farm operation
• Able to lift 50+ pounds
• Good DMV record; Able to pass background check
• Spanish speaking a plus, but not required

Compensation:
$33,000 per year, plus health benefits. No housing is available at this time, but may become possible in the future.

To apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter no later than October 15, 2008 to Liz Snyder, Program Director, liz[at]fullcirclesunnyvale[dot]org. Position starts November 1st.

On the web at:

http://www.fullcirclesunnyvale.org

Liz Snyder
Program Director
Full Circle Farm
liz@fullcirclesunnyvale.org
650-283-9360