Keller Executive Search
Farm Manager – Organic Production & Training
Keller Executive Search, Oak Harbor, Washington, us, 98278
Our client, a nonprofit farmer training organization on Whidbey Island, Washington, is seeking an experienced
Farm Manager
to lead production operations and mentor the next generation of sustainable farmers. This is a unique opportunity to combine hands‑on organic vegetable and seed production with meaningful educational impact in a mission‑driven environment.
We’re seeking someone with entrepreneurial creativity and vision who can see the larger possibilities and help the organization scale significantly and improve efficiency. Looking further ahead, plans include incorporating regenerative livestock management and hay production over the next 3–5 years, with the potential to develop a much larger, multi‑site operation across the island.
Located approximately 45 minutes from Seattle (90 minutes door‑to‑door via ferry), Whidbey Island offers a beautiful Pacific Northwest. The ideal candidate will be open-minded, comfortable working in a community‑focused environment, and excited about the mission.
Key Responsibilities
Production Management:
Oversee day‑to‑day operations of a certified organic vegetable and seed production farm growing specialty crops; lead all aspects including seeding, transplanting, irrigation, harvest, processing, and marketing
Strategic Expansion & Vision:
Take primary responsibility for scaling production from 5 to over 12 acres within two years; develop and implement 3–5 year plans for integrating regenerative livestock management and hay production; help envision and execute the organization’s growth across multiple island locations with access to 100 acres of farming potential
Entrepreneurial Leadership:
Bring creative, entrepreneurial thinking to identify opportunities for expansion, efficiency improvements, and new revenue streams; help the organization think bigger while staying grounded in practical execution
Cropping Strategy:
Design and implement comprehensive crop plans in collaboration with current farm team; align specialty crop production with local market demand and ensure operational efficiency
Financial Management:
Manage multiple market光 outlets (wholesale, farmers markets, farm stands, local food hubs) to maximize revenue; maintain budgets and meet production and revenue goals; potential for performance‑based compensation tied to sales growth
Soil Health Management:
Apply deepато understanding of soil building, soil health assessment, and soil limitations to guide organic and regenerative practices; this is a core driver of the farming philosophy
Systems Improvement:
Assess current farming systems and identify opportunities for efficiency gains; implement certified organic and regenerative practices including judicious use of tillage, tarping, rotational grazing, cover cropping, and pest exclusion methods taking a pragmatic rather than ideological approach
Equipment Operation & Troubles_wsgiing:
Operate tractors and farm equipment confidently fibre demonstrate aptitude for troubleshooting and repairing equipment in the field when issues arise (island logistics mean off‑island repairs can take a month or more, so problem‑solving skills are critical)
Team Leadership:
Supervise and train farm staff and apprentices with varied experience levels and goals; foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment that encourages both regenerative practices and commercially viable farming approaches; make independent operational decisions while holding team accountable for outcomes
Communication & Collaboration:
Engage regularly with the Executive Director and leadership team to ensure collaboration and alignment with our community‑focused mission—this role thrives through teamwork rather than independent operation.
Documentation & Compliance:
Maintain operational logs, track progress against goals, and ensure regulatory compliance with organic certification standards (note: operation includes both certified and non‑certified fields)
Community Engagement:
Represent the organization in the community through public speaking, leading tours, and participating in outreach activities; demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and values alignment with the mission
Local Operations:
Travel locally between farm sites on the island and to farmers markets as needed; farm vehicle provided
Required Qualifications
Commercial Management Experience:
Minimum 5 years of full‑time, hands‑on management experience on a commercial organic vegetable and/or seed farm of at least 10 acres, with demonstrated leadership in scaling up production (Note: Academic coursework, internships, volunteer roles, or recent graduate degrees alone do not meet this requirement)
Documented Track Record:
Proven success in crop planning, budgeting, staff supervision, and sales across multiple market channels; must provide documentation of past farm management roles (e.g., crop plans, budgets, operational logs)
Leadership Skills:
Demonstrated ability to lead farm operations, manage teams, mentor apprentices, and make independent operational decisions while maintaining collaborative communication with organizational leadership
Organic Systems Expertise:
Experience managing certified organic farm operations and implementing regenerative practices with a pragmatic approach; understanding of soil health, soil building, and soil limitations
Entrepreneurial Mindset:
Ability to see larger‑scale possibilities, think creatively about growth opportunities, and bring vision to ಪು 확 expansion planning
Communication & приемование kise collaboration:
Strong interpersonal skills with ability to check in with leadership regularly; not an independent lone wolf operator—რცელ must work collaboratively within nonprofit structure
Teaching & Mentoring:
Ability to connect with and train apprentices from diverse backgrounds with varied farming goals (from idealistic small‑scale regenerative farmers to profit‑focused commercial farmers); comfort with public speaking and leading community tours
Legal Requirements:
Must be a U.S. citizen and possess a valid U.S. driver’s license
References & Documentation:
Professional references required from previous employers; documentation of past farm management roles
Location Requirement:
Must be able to relocate to Whidbey Island or reside locally; on‑site presence is essential (ferry commuting from Seattle is not feasible for this role)
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with specialty crops (non‑traditional row crops) in addition to standard vegetable production
Background with seed production, regenerative livestock management, and hay production
Experience scaling production from intensive bed‑based systems to larger field blocks and multi‑site operations
Familiarity with nonprofit farmer‑training programs or educational farm environments
Track record of revenue growth and meeting financial targets in agricultural operations
Experience managing operations across multiple farm locations
Comfort with both certified organic and non‑certified field management
A love of complexity, problem‑solving ability, and a healthy sense of humor
Passion for fresh, locally grown food, community engagement, and building something lasting
Comfortable operating tractors and farm equipment; aptitude for troubleshooting and repairing equipment in the field when issues arise
Salary:
$80,000 per year (Washington State overtime‑exempt salary threshold; statutory increases apply)
Performance Incentive:
Potential for performance‑based compensation/commission tied to increased production and sales revenue growth
Health Insurance:
Comprehensive coverage provided
Paid Time Off:
Holidays and vacation time
Housing Assistance:
Temporary housing options available to assist with the relocation process while you establish yourself on the island
Equipment & Vehicle:
Farm vehicle provided for local travel; access to full range of farm equipment
Professional Growth:
Opportunity to shape the strategic direction of an established nonprofit farm; lead expansion from 5 acres to potentially Kepala acres across multiple island sites; develop new enterprise integration over
softwares; this could be the capstone role of your agricultural career
Work Environment:
Pragmatic, mission‑driven team; seasonally driven hours (typically aim for 8-5 schedule, extended hours during peak seasons as needed); weekend farmers market participation required
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non‑Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equaləlxalq Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity Commitment to Diversity:
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations Reason-Version Accommodations:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.
Compensation Information Compensation Information:
For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be באופן included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role คือ and location.
Compliance with Laws Compliance with Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Work最快 Harassment Workplace Harassment:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.
E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.
Privacy and Pay Equity California Residents:
For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.
State‑Specific Information Rhode Island:
We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.
Genetic Information:
In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.
Local Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.
Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our edinients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview ай process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Farm Manager
to lead production operations and mentor the next generation of sustainable farmers. This is a unique opportunity to combine hands‑on organic vegetable and seed production with meaningful educational impact in a mission‑driven environment.
We’re seeking someone with entrepreneurial creativity and vision who can see the larger possibilities and help the organization scale significantly and improve efficiency. Looking further ahead, plans include incorporating regenerative livestock management and hay production over the next 3–5 years, with the potential to develop a much larger, multi‑site operation across the island.
Located approximately 45 minutes from Seattle (90 minutes door‑to‑door via ferry), Whidbey Island offers a beautiful Pacific Northwest. The ideal candidate will be open-minded, comfortable working in a community‑focused environment, and excited about the mission.
Key Responsibilities
Production Management:
Oversee day‑to‑day operations of a certified organic vegetable and seed production farm growing specialty crops; lead all aspects including seeding, transplanting, irrigation, harvest, processing, and marketing
Strategic Expansion & Vision:
Take primary responsibility for scaling production from 5 to over 12 acres within two years; develop and implement 3–5 year plans for integrating regenerative livestock management and hay production; help envision and execute the organization’s growth across multiple island locations with access to 100 acres of farming potential
Entrepreneurial Leadership:
Bring creative, entrepreneurial thinking to identify opportunities for expansion, efficiency improvements, and new revenue streams; help the organization think bigger while staying grounded in practical execution
Cropping Strategy:
Design and implement comprehensive crop plans in collaboration with current farm team; align specialty crop production with local market demand and ensure operational efficiency
Financial Management:
Manage multiple market光 outlets (wholesale, farmers markets, farm stands, local food hubs) to maximize revenue; maintain budgets and meet production and revenue goals; potential for performance‑based compensation tied to sales growth
Soil Health Management:
Apply deepато understanding of soil building, soil health assessment, and soil limitations to guide organic and regenerative practices; this is a core driver of the farming philosophy
Systems Improvement:
Assess current farming systems and identify opportunities for efficiency gains; implement certified organic and regenerative practices including judicious use of tillage, tarping, rotational grazing, cover cropping, and pest exclusion methods taking a pragmatic rather than ideological approach
Equipment Operation & Troubles_wsgiing:
Operate tractors and farm equipment confidently fibre demonstrate aptitude for troubleshooting and repairing equipment in the field when issues arise (island logistics mean off‑island repairs can take a month or more, so problem‑solving skills are critical)
Team Leadership:
Supervise and train farm staff and apprentices with varied experience levels and goals; foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment that encourages both regenerative practices and commercially viable farming approaches; make independent operational decisions while holding team accountable for outcomes
Communication & Collaboration:
Engage regularly with the Executive Director and leadership team to ensure collaboration and alignment with our community‑focused mission—this role thrives through teamwork rather than independent operation.
Documentation & Compliance:
Maintain operational logs, track progress against goals, and ensure regulatory compliance with organic certification standards (note: operation includes both certified and non‑certified fields)
Community Engagement:
Represent the organization in the community through public speaking, leading tours, and participating in outreach activities; demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and values alignment with the mission
Local Operations:
Travel locally between farm sites on the island and to farmers markets as needed; farm vehicle provided
Required Qualifications
Commercial Management Experience:
Minimum 5 years of full‑time, hands‑on management experience on a commercial organic vegetable and/or seed farm of at least 10 acres, with demonstrated leadership in scaling up production (Note: Academic coursework, internships, volunteer roles, or recent graduate degrees alone do not meet this requirement)
Documented Track Record:
Proven success in crop planning, budgeting, staff supervision, and sales across multiple market channels; must provide documentation of past farm management roles (e.g., crop plans, budgets, operational logs)
Leadership Skills:
Demonstrated ability to lead farm operations, manage teams, mentor apprentices, and make independent operational decisions while maintaining collaborative communication with organizational leadership
Organic Systems Expertise:
Experience managing certified organic farm operations and implementing regenerative practices with a pragmatic approach; understanding of soil health, soil building, and soil limitations
Entrepreneurial Mindset:
Ability to see larger‑scale possibilities, think creatively about growth opportunities, and bring vision to ಪು 확 expansion planning
Communication & приемование kise collaboration:
Strong interpersonal skills with ability to check in with leadership regularly; not an independent lone wolf operator—რცელ must work collaboratively within nonprofit structure
Teaching & Mentoring:
Ability to connect with and train apprentices from diverse backgrounds with varied farming goals (from idealistic small‑scale regenerative farmers to profit‑focused commercial farmers); comfort with public speaking and leading community tours
Legal Requirements:
Must be a U.S. citizen and possess a valid U.S. driver’s license
References & Documentation:
Professional references required from previous employers; documentation of past farm management roles
Location Requirement:
Must be able to relocate to Whidbey Island or reside locally; on‑site presence is essential (ferry commuting from Seattle is not feasible for this role)
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with specialty crops (non‑traditional row crops) in addition to standard vegetable production
Background with seed production, regenerative livestock management, and hay production
Experience scaling production from intensive bed‑based systems to larger field blocks and multi‑site operations
Familiarity with nonprofit farmer‑training programs or educational farm environments
Track record of revenue growth and meeting financial targets in agricultural operations
Experience managing operations across multiple farm locations
Comfort with both certified organic and non‑certified field management
A love of complexity, problem‑solving ability, and a healthy sense of humor
Passion for fresh, locally grown food, community engagement, and building something lasting
Comfortable operating tractors and farm equipment; aptitude for troubleshooting and repairing equipment in the field when issues arise
Salary:
$80,000 per year (Washington State overtime‑exempt salary threshold; statutory increases apply)
Performance Incentive:
Potential for performance‑based compensation/commission tied to increased production and sales revenue growth
Health Insurance:
Comprehensive coverage provided
Paid Time Off:
Holidays and vacation time
Housing Assistance:
Temporary housing options available to assist with the relocation process while you establish yourself on the island
Equipment & Vehicle:
Farm vehicle provided for local travel; access to full range of farm equipment
Professional Growth:
Opportunity to shape the strategic direction of an established nonprofit farm; lead expansion from 5 acres to potentially Kepala acres across multiple island sites; develop new enterprise integration over
softwares; this could be the capstone role of your agricultural career
Work Environment:
Pragmatic, mission‑driven team; seasonally driven hours (typically aim for 8-5 schedule, extended hours during peak seasons as needed); weekend farmers market participation required
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non‑Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equaləlxalq Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity Commitment to Diversity:
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations Reason-Version Accommodations:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.
Compensation Information Compensation Information:
For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be באופן included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role คือ and location.
Compliance with Laws Compliance with Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Work最快 Harassment Workplace Harassment:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.
E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.
Privacy and Pay Equity California Residents:
For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.
State‑Specific Information Rhode Island:
We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.
Genetic Information:
In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.
Local Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.
Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our edinients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview ай process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.
#J-18808-Ljbffr