About the Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Established in 1966, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is the largest regional nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to saving the Chesapeake Bay, its rivers and streams, and the wildlife that call it home through education, advocacy, litigation, and restoration. Since 2010, CBF has engaged in a focused effort to defend and implement the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint, a binding federal and state collaborative agreement aimed at reducing pollution to the science-based, legally-affirmed levels established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Blueprint is expected to be fully implemented by 2025. If the states and the federal government achieve Blueprint goals, the Bay will finally—after decades of failed efforts—be removed from the Clean Water Act's impaired waters list. Successfully implementing the Blueprint depends on a well-informed, engaged, active, and diverse constituency of members, advocates, and volunteers who speak up and take action to save the Bay.
CBF has a staff of approximately 230 employees working in offices in Annapolis, Maryland; Richmond and Virginia Beach, Virginia; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Washington, D.C. as well as 15 field education program locations. Our staff and volunteer corps work throughout the region educating students and adults, advocating for clean water policies, restoring waterways, and litigating when necessary.
CBF's headquarters office in Annapolis, Maryland is the Philip Merrill Environmental Center, the world's first U.S. Green Build Council's LEED platinum building. In 2014, CBF opened the Brock Environmental Center—one of the world's most energy efficient, environmentally smart buildings—in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
CBF has 200,000 members and supporters and an annual budget of approximately $30 million. For more information on CBF, please visit our About CBF page.
About the Hiring Department
Environmental Protection and Restoration (EPR)
CBF's Environmental Protection and Restoration department defends and restores the Chesapeake Bay by protecting the Bay's natural resources from pollution and other harmful activities by fighting for strong and effective laws and regulations; restoring the Bay's essential habitats and filtering mechanisms; and involving citizens in CBF's environmental efforts by recruiting, training, and incorporating them as effective partners and leaders.
Context of the Position
The Vegetable Production Manager is an individual deeply committed to advancing regenerative agriculture and highlighting its ties to water quality. The Vegetable Production Manager leads the production of certified organic vegetables for community supported agriculture and vegetable donation. The Manager will build relationships within the farming community and work to pilot new and innovative techniques and share the lessons learned with other farmers. As a member of the Farm Management Team, the Vegetable Production Manager leads by example, supports the vegetable production team, and assists the Farm Program Manager in delivering successful operations and strategic impact at Clagett Farm.
Essential Functions
Organic Vegetable Production:
1. Develop crop plan for the season and order all supplies required (seed, fertilizer, equipment).
2. Manage vegetable production (seeding, transplanting, pest management, cultivation, irrigation).
3. Use tractors and other equipment to prepare fields, plant, cultivate and harvest, and direct the training of seasonal staff for those activities.
4. Recruit, hire and supervise seasonal farm staff required for vegetable production.
5. Manage public volunteer opportunities for vegetable production operations, including scheduling, posting, and coordinating day-of volunteer activities for vegetable harvest.
Manage workshare opportunities for qualified participants.
6. Maintain budget for vegetable production on the farm.
7. Incorporate innovative practices and pilot them on the farm. Work with farmers to identify new practices to implement.
8. Coordinate with Farm Program Manager to prepare farm nutrient management plans, Organic certification, and end of year reports.
9. Keep records of activities, inputs and harvest weights in accordance with Organic NOP guidelines.
1. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): Coordinate with the Distribution Coordinator to ensure successful community supported agriculture distributions. Determine the number, cost and timing of CSA shares for the year.
2. Determine harvest amounts and develop weekly distribution list for shareholders.
3. Steward relationships with local food delivery programs and institutions to donate a share of vegetables produced at Clagett Farm.
4. Assign staffing and secure locations with landowners for CSA distribution at multiple locations.
Farm Management Team:
1. Participate in MD Office and Ag Team meetings as determined by Farm Program Manager.
2. Implement and oversee organizational policies, procedures, and safety and training
requirements for vegetable production and staff.
3. Assist in the development of farm strategic and annual plans.
Professional Experience and Qualifications
At least five years of experience in intensive, organic vegetable production; mastery of tractors and their implements for vegetable production, volunteer management experience; capable of physical labor. At least two years’ experience recruiting and managing farm staff, budgets, and distribution; three or more years' experience preferred. Strong communication abilities across all levels of volunteer, management, and staff. Strong work ethic and excellent attention to detail. Knowledge of organic certification requirements, food safety and handling regulations, and nutrient management planning a plus.
Additional Information
Clagett Farm is a 286-acre property with 20 acres dedicated to the production of Certified Organic vegetables. Our primary distribution method is through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program that serves 280 families. Additionally, we are committed to supporting local communities by donating approximately 30% of our produce to various local agencies. This is an on-farm, agricultural position that involves working outside in a variety of terrain and weather conditions, including rain, cold, heat and wind. Candidates should be able to lift and carry 50 lbs as well as bend, stoop and kneel for long periods of time. The farm raises cattle and sheep, so candidates should be comfortable in the presence of domesticated livestock and with the process of meat production. Due to the nature of this position, remote work is not permitted. Alternative work schedules may be necessary and will be determined by the Farm Program Manager.
Salary Range: $60,000 - $65,000
How to Apply
Using the link below, please submit a cover letter and resume. This position will remain open until filled.
Apply NowFor full-time staff, CBF offers a 36-hour work week and a comprehensive benefits package to include: 20 vacation days, 10 sick days, 2 floating holidays, health, vision, dental, life insurance, and a 403(b) retirement plan with matching contribution. Learn more about CBF Benefits.
