Overview
Farmer Jobs in McKinney, TX at The Seed Project Foundation
Farmer
Position Summary
The position will report to the Farm Director and be responsible for the daily production, and stewardship of a 45-acre nonprofit farm dedicated to fighting food insecurity in Collin County. This position oversees all aspects of crop and livestock production, including fruit orchards, vegetable gardens, hydroponic greenhouse operations, and egg production. The position plays a critical role in ensuring the farm produces high-quality, nutrient-dense food that is donated directly to local families and organizations serving those experiencing food insecurity.
The ideal candidate is passionate about agriculture, community service, sustainability, and using farming as a force for good.
About Our Farm
Every fruit, vegetable, and egg produced on the farm is donated to food-insecure individuals and families throughout Collin County. The farm includes:
- 45 acres of cultivated farmland
- Fruit orchards
- Large-scale vegetable production
- Hydroponic greenhouse systems
- Egg-laying hens
- Volunteer and educational programs
Essential Responsibilities
Crop Production
- Plan, plant, cultivate, and harvest seasonal fruits and vegetables.
- Maintain healthy and productive fruit orchards.
- Develop crop rotation and succession planting schedules.
- Monitor plant health and implement organic and regenerative growing practices.
- Manage irrigation systems and water conservation efforts.
Greenhouse Management
- Oversee daily operations of hydroponic greenhouse systems.
- Monitor nutrient levels, water quality, environmental controls, and crop performance.
- Schedule planting and harvesting cycles to maximize production.
Poultry Management
- Care for laying hens and oversee egg production.
- Maintain clean, safe, and healthy poultry facilities.
- Monitor flock health and coordinate veterinary care as needed.
Farm Operations
- Mow and landscape maintenance
- Operate and maintain farm equipment and tools.
- Coordinate routine maintenance of farm infrastructure.
- Manage inventory of seeds, supplies, fertilizers, and equipment.
- Ensure compliance with safety standards and agricultural best practices.
Volunteer & Community Engagement
- Lead and supervise volunteers during farm workdays.
- Assist with educational tours, community events, and outreach programs.
- Help create a welcoming and educational environment for visitors, donors, and community partners.
Harvest & Distribution
- Coordinate harvest schedules to maximize yield and freshness.
- Track production metrics and donation totals.
- Work with nonprofit leadership and partner organizations to ensure timely food distribution.
Qualifications
Required
- 1+ years of farming, horticulture, greenhouse, or agricultural experience.
- Knowledge of vegetable production, orchard management, and soil health.
- Experience operating farm equipment and basic machinery.
- Ability to lift 50 pounds and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Passion for serving the community and advancing the mission of the organization.
Preferred
- Experience with hydroponic growing systems.
- Experience managing laying hens or small livestock.
- Familiarity with regenerative and organic farming practices.
- Experience supervising employees or volunteers.
- Agricultural degree or related certification.
Physical Requirements
- Frequent lifting, bending, walking, and standing.
- Ability to work outdoors year-round.
- Ability to operate farm equipment safely.
Success in This Role
A successful Farmer will:
- Consistently produce high-quality fruits, vegetables, and eggs.
- Maintain healthy orchards, gardens, greenhouse systems, and poultry.
- Foster a positive volunteer experience.
- Demonstrate strong stewardship of the farm’s land and resources.
- Help maximize the amount of food donated to families facing food insecurity throughout Collin County.
Pay: $18.00 – $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Title: Farmer
Company: The Seed Project Foundation
Location: McKinney, TX
