Farm Manager

Farm Manager

Position Description

Position: Farm Manager

Reports to: Executive Director

Location: Ashburn, VA

Employment status: Full-time, permanent

Willowsford Farm is seeking a dedicated and experienced Farm Manager to lead the operations of our certified organic, community-based farm, producing vegetables and pastured eggs for a CSA program, Farm Stand, and online sales. The Farm Manager will oversee day-to-day farm operations, ensuring a safe, organized, and productive environment for staff, volunteers, and visitors. This role is responsible for planning and executing farm operations using sustainable and organic practices, while also strengthening production systems, supporting food access initiatives, and enhancing community engagement.

The Farm Manager will join during a critical point in the growing season and will have the opportunity to evaluate and refine the current planting plan, operational systems, and team structure.

About Willowsford Farm

Willowsford Farm is a community-based farm in Ashburn, Loudoun County, Virginia, and is part of Willowsford Conservancy. The Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting over 2,600 acres of open space and farmland within the Willowsford “Agrihood” while fostering a deeper connection between people, agriculture, and the natural world. We steward forests, grasslands, wetlands, and wildlife habitats through active land management, while engaging the community through education, volunteerism, and hands-on conservation efforts. The Farm is an integral part of this work, serving as both a production space and living classroom where sustainable agriculture, food access, and community engagement come together.

The Farm raises certified organic vegetables and pastured laying hens on 14 acres for a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and consumer sales through our Farm Stand and online store. In addition to Willowsford-grown products, the Farm offers organic and locally sourced products from partner farms and donates produce to local hunger-relief organizations. The Farm also hosts programs and events that connect community members to agriculture and the land.

Primary Responsibilities

Farm Production

\tDevelop and implement annual production plans aligned with CSA, market demand, and organizational goals.

\tManage crops from seed to harvest and post-harvest processing to meet production goals, ensure high product quality, and support consistent supply across sales and donation channels.

\tOperate and train staff on farm equipment; oversee and assist with maintenance and repair.

\tManage soil fertility, pest and disease control, and biodiversity using organic and regenerative practices; ensure successful completion of annual organic certification.

\tOversee livestock production of 480 laying hen flock.

Team Management

\tEstablish clear performance expectations, accountability, and team structure to ensure efficient and effective farm operations.

\tHire, train, and supervise farm employees, ensuring efficient and productive teamwork to complete necessary farm tasks.

\tPrepare daily and weekly plans, delegate tasks, and ensure the crew understand tasks and expectations.

\tProvide guidance and feedback to farm crew, including mid-season and end of season performance review meetings.

\tTrain and oversee robust volunteer program.

\tFoster a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes communication and respect.

CSA and Marketing

\tManage CSA and wholesale of produce. Develop and implement sales and marketing plans; manage customer database, and relationships.

\tOversee harvest, packing, and distribution; ensure food quality and safety standards are met.

\tServe as the lead on farm communications strategy (including website, newsletters, and social media) with implementation support from staff.

Outreach and Education

\tParticipate in programs to educate the public, including leading school field trips and farm tours.

\tRepresent the Farm in Conservancy meetings and community engagement efforts, maintaining strong communication with staff, residents, and the public.

Performance Expectations

\tSuccessful execution of crop plan and production targets.

\tStrong CSA performance and customer satisfaction.

\tEffective team leadership and retention.

\tStrong financial performance across CSA, Farm Stand, and other revenue channels.

\tContribution to food access and community engagement goals.

\tContinuous improvement of farm operations, systems and crop production.

Other

\tEnsure compliance with laws and regulations. Serve as the lead in the Farm’s food safety program.

\tMaintain operational records.

\tOrder farm business inputs and services; maintain inventories.

\tDevelop and manage farm budgets and financial performance; support grant writing and funding strategies.

\tOversee maintenance and repair of equipment, facilities, and infrastructure. Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment.

\tManage vendors, consultants, and contractors.

\tThe position and the Farm may evolve; other duties as assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

\tThis position works predominantly outdoors, year-round in all weather conditions, and requires heavy lifting, physical exertion, operating equipment, and navigating uneven terrain for extended periods.

Qualifications & Experience

\t5+ years of hands-on farming and management experience in organic vegetable production, with extensive knowledge of crops and growing practices. Experience with farm business management, CSA, and marketing.

\tBachelor’s degree in agriculture or related field preferred, or equivalent experience.

\tExperience in all aspects of crop production, packaging, and storage.

\tExperience in organic and regenerative agricultural practices.

\tProficient in operating and maintaining farm equipment.

\tProficient with computers and commonly used software such as Excel.

\tExcellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

\tStrong team leader with a positive, collaborative approach and strong work ethic.

\tExperience working in a community-based, nonprofit, or educational farm setting preferred.

\tSome livestock production experience preferred.

\tMust have a valid driver’s license and good driving record.

\tMust be authorized to work in the U.S.

Compensation and Benefits

\tThe salary range is between $105,000-$120,000 dependent upon experience. A housing allowance may be available.

\tBenefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) retirement plan with employee contribution, phone stipend, paid vacation, and holidays.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume, a brief cover letter, and salary requirements using the Apply to this Position icon.

\tSelected candidate will need to successfully complete a pre-employment background check (since we work with minors through our engagement activities) and provide references.

\tThe candidate must be willing to relocate to this area and be able to legally work in the U.S. Housing not provided, but a stipend might be available.

Application Deadline

\tApril 24, 2026 (end of day)

At Willowsford Conservancy & Farm, we value the strength that comes from a variety of perspectives and experiences, and we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive space for our entire team. As such, we encourage individuals from all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds to apply for our internship opportunities.