GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE

Under the direction of the Manager, Agriculture, supervises operating departments including land preparation, planting, irrigation, spray, harvesting, packing and shipping and agricultural engineering.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS/DUTIES OF THE POSITION

Supervises all land preparation activities including plowing, disking, subsoiling, deep tillage and harrowing of fields. Also oversees the clearing of fields.  Ensures that block layouts are accurate and that specifications concerning soil conservation, drainage systems and field roads are adhered to. Supervises the laying of mulch and pre-plant application of soil fumigants, fertilizers and fungicide. Supervises the installation of all ground and surface irrigation pipes. Supervises drip irrigation applications as well as fertilizer, chlorine and pesticide injections.  Oversees overhead sprinkler irrigation activities. Supervises boom spray application of insecticides, herbicides, fertilizers and plant regulators. Also oversees and coordinates all weed control activities. Supervises all field activities including fresh fruit harvesting, packing and transportation. Supervises the processing and shipping operations. Generates and administers long and short-term operating schedules and estimates. Assists with the development and administration of the operating budget. Participates in agricultural cost control programs to ensure budget goals are achieved. Provides input for the development of research programs. Ensures agricultural practices follow accepted procedures in the Agricultural Practices Manual. Ensures that the administration of the collective bargaining agreement is in compliance with company policies and procedures. Ensures the maintenance of safe and healthful working conditions for employees in accordance with company policies and programs and federal/state regulations. Develops and implements safety programs to eliminate accidents, including conducting regular safety meetings for the operations. Performs special research and development projects as assigned.

JOB SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITY, EXPERIENCE)

Required Five years progressively responsible supervisory experience in and agricultural environment.

Preferred Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong leadership ability, and the ability to supervise, motivate and train employees effectively.