Crop Manager

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The position of Crop Manager is located at the co‑managed University of Vermont (UVM) and USDA‑Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Northeast Crop and Livestock Research Station (NECLRS) at Nordic Farm located in Charlotte, VT. The UVM Food Systems Research Institute and the USDA‑ARS Food Systems Research Unit are staffed with research scientists, scientific support staff, student trainees, and administrative support staff. Research explores diverse subject matter spanning the food and farming systems of Vermont, including perennial forages, annual row crops and cereals, and pastures.

NECLRS operates on 400 acres of leased land within a larger privately‑owned farm. NECLRS includes multiple research laboratories, farm and field plots for experimental work on major crops grown within the region, facilities for housing heavy‑duty machinery and other equipment, and facilities for housing animals involved in livestock research. This position conducts farming operations in support of feeding beef cows, calves, and finish steers, and to manage crops in support of research on grain and forage production.

The position requires skill in operating and maintaining heavy farm equipment, precisely following safety and research protocols, communication with colleagues and scientists, and detail‑oriented record keeping.

This position will work closely with USDA‑ARS Research Agronomist and USDA‑ARS Agronomy Technician to develop farm operations workflows that accommodate University and ARS research missions. Work is reviewed by the ARS Research Agronomist for adherence to policy and procedures and adequacy of farm operations. The ARS Research Agronomist rates performance periodically in terms of progress being made on various projects. The Crop Manager independently plans and carries out assignments in communication with the ARS Research Agronomist and other research partners.

This position requires significant self‑direction, technical experience, and effective communication with varied audiences.

• High school degree, with eight to ten years of in‑field experience;
• Associate’s degree in a related field, with five years of in‑field experience;
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field, with four years of in‑field experience.

In‑field experience should include working as a crop consultant, manager, or leader of crop operations on a commercial or research farm with at least 20+ acres of hay, grain, and/or silage production, including heavy equipment operation, setup and maintenance as well as planning. Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain, and driver’s check required. Ability to obtain or maintain pesticide applicator licenses.

Skill in communicating both orally and in writing to provide guidance and instruction to employees, to discuss changes for plans and work projects, interface with the public, and to keep UVM / USDA partners informed of critical needs. Must possess strong organizational skills.

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