CSA Manager Job in California

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CSA Manager Job at the Center for Land Based Learning in West Sacramento

The Organization:

The Center for Land-Based Learning inspires and motivates people of all ages, especially youth, to promote a healthy interplay between agriculture, nature and society through their actions and as leaders in their communities. Land-Based Learning is creating the next generation of farmers and engaging people of all ages in agriculture and stewardship of natural resources. Our five model programs span the breadth of California, serving 24 counties.

Background: The California Farm Academy trains beginning farmers in sustainable production, marketing and business planning through a seven-month class and a year-round farm business incubator. To date, over 80 farmers have been trained, with more than 2/3 farming or working in other agricultural businesses. The farm business incubator, with farm sites in West Sacramento, Winters and Davis (coming Spring 2016), provides land, infrastructure and peer to peer support to these beginning farmers as they start their farming careers.

In operation since May 2014, the West Sacramento Urban Farm Program works in partnership with the City of West Sacramento to convert vacant lots owned both publicly and privately into urban farm incubators. We provide space, infrastructure, tools and a supportive boost via mentorship to small scale farmers looking to get started in an urban environment. Currently there are eight farmers at four sites within the City of West Sacramento.

CSA Manager Job Summary: This Part-time, 24+ hours/week, position will coordinate and manage a new Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Program and a volunteer program for farms in West Sacramento. We are looking for a person with a passion for the local food movement who will contribute to the program’s overall success and growth. This is a highly demanding position during peak season and requires a “do whatever it takes” attitude. Excellent communication skills, quick decision-making, and a cool head are essential.

CSA Coordination: By April 2016 we will open and operate a 32-40 member weekly CSA Program, with produce made up of an aggregated supply from 5 participating farms in West Sacramento. 32-35 boxes will be market rate and 10 will be made available to families receiving CalFresh benefits.

The CSA will have 2-4 pick-up locations. We also sell produce via our own farm stand, as well as through various restaurants and supermarkets. We grow a wide variety of vegetables and melons and take pride in the positive impact of providing fresh, local food in the community.

CSA Duties:

• Work with farmers to ensure correct product is available for each box.

• Pack CSA boxes, list and prepare labels each Monday morning.

• Physical delivery of shares to designated sites.

• Write the CSA newsletters for weekly delivery.

• Track all accounting, ensure farmers are getting paid in a timely manner and that members

are paying for their shares.

• Communicate with customers via phone & email, including some weekends.

• Assist Manager with receiving orders, and placing orders to our farmers, as needed. Program

all CSA share items for purchase each week. Share feedback with the farmers.

• Account procurement and management: send weekly emails to wholesale accounts with

produce availability list (schools, elderly nutrition and other local institutions).

• Marketing and Outreach: Update website as needed (no html), assist with social media and

picture taking. Work with farm owners and Program Manager on seasonal marketing and promotions plans, as directed.

Volunteer Coordination: Once a month and sometimes more The West Sacramento Urban Farm

Program receives requests from individuals in the community, teachers from local schools and other community members looking for ways to get involved. As a Program we aim to increase

responsiveness and foster a deeper connection to our community through the creation of this

position.

Volunteer Duties:

• Promptly respond to inquiries about volunteering in any capacity.

• Work with interested teachers in organizing classroom visits on the farm, including,

developing and leading farm-based educational activities, developing a fee structure and coordinate with schools for payment.

• Coordinate necessary logistics to connect volunteers with farmers and opportunities on the farms

Mandatory requirements:

• Minimum 1-2 years’ experience with production-scale diversified vegetable farming,

preferably with increasing levels of farm or marketing responsibility.

• Direct experience with developing and managing production plans for CSA and/or wholesale accounts.

• Understanding of market demand, consumer preferences, and requirements of partners

within the food system value chain.

• Direct experience developing and managing complex on-the-ground operations.

• Excellent communications skills and impeccable customer service to develop buyer relationships.

• Ability to use programs such as Microsoft Publisher, Word, and Power Point

• Detail oriented and able to track orders and sales accurately, efficiently, and in a timely manner.

• Experience working with volunteers and/or have run youth/adult education programs.

• Comfortable talking to groups of volunteers and leading activities with beginners’ level.

• Work well independently and as part of a team.

• Available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.

• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. A background check will be

performed. Ability to drive a manual transmission vehicle is a bonus.

• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.

Hours, Benefits and Compensation:

Year round, part-time, 24+ hours weekly, flexible schedule depending on the season and demand.

Some customer service weekend work will be required from home. The pay rate is $15/hour, with

growth potential, commensurate with experience.

Application Deadline for the CSA Manager Job: open until position is filled

To apply send cover letter, resume and 3 relevant work references to sara@landbasedlearning.org.