Farm Director - Yaphank, NY Yaphank, NY

Farm Director - Yaphank, NY job at Cornell Cooperative Extension. Yaphank, NY.

The Suffolk County Farm Director will manage the day-to-day operations of a 270-acre publicly owned and operated farm in Suffolk County, NY. This role is responsible for providing expert guidance on sustainable agricultural practices, crop and livestock planning, soil health management, and overall farm productivity. Working in coordination with county officials, farm managers, and community stakeholders, the Farm Director will help shape and support long-term planning efforts that align with the farm's educational, environmental, and public service goals.

The Farm Director shall possess a deep knowledge of local Long Island farming, sustainable agriculture, and best management practices. Evaluate current operations, identify opportunities for improvement, and recommend practical, data-driven solutions to enhance ecological stewardship, financial sustainability, and community engagement. This role may also contribute to educational programming, grant development, and compliance with state and federal agricultural regulations. Act as Farm Manager to the Farm Advisory Committee.

Supervise farm staff and overall farm management. The Farm Director will work closely with Suffolk County staff, including Economic Development and Planning and Department of Public Works, on long-term vision and implementing sustainability goals. They will help develop and coordinate long-term farm investments and capital projects. This includes collaborating with agricultural industry leadership and other community partners to maximize the Farm's value to the industry and to the Suffolk County community at-large.

The Farm Director shall work with staff to identify and secure grant opportunities to enhance on-site agricultural experiences and educational opportunities. Maintain positive working relationships with industry leaders, stakeholders, local officials, county employees, community groups and service providers. The Farm Director shall recommend opportunities for program growth and adaptation and identify additional sources of program revenue. Responsible for effective management of resources (including budget development, implementation, monitoring and reporting) available to the program area, facilities coordination, event coordination and development.

Represent the Association before the public, community leaders, government officials and Cornell University in conjunction with program and leadership responsibilities.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in agriculture, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Horticulture, Animal Science, Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in farm management, agricultural consulting, or related roles.
• Ability to develop and maintain programming partnerships with a variety of community/governmental/educational agencies and organizations.
• Ability to meet travel requirements associated with this position.
• Ability to develop and monitor a program budget.
• Knowledge of agriculture, farming, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Long Island history, environmental issues.
• Ability to work flexible hours which includes evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.
• Ability to transport/move supplies and equipment, climb stairs with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to clearly communicate (speak, read, and write proficiently) in English.
• Ability and willingness to work with diverse audiences and maintain cultural sensitivity.
• Ability and willingness to work with the county and legislators to obtain funding and ensure facilities are maintained appropriately.
• Proficiency with windows-based software including use of the internet and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Ability to communicate effectively through oral, written, and visual channels using traditional methods as well as electronic technology.
• Demonstrated experience in effective supervision and management.
• Demonstrated experience with fund development, management, and grant writing.
• Demonstrated experience and ability to work independently and as part of a team…