Contact Information
Name: Maggie Taylor
Email: delightflowerfarm@gmail.com
Job location: Champaign, Illinois
Business name: Delight Flower Farm
Job/volunteer description: Crew Manager
NOW HIRING for 2023 growing season ~Late March through mid-Dec.
Position description: This position is for a day-to-day operations manager. Responsibilities will include effectively managing a small crew of 4- 6 people (including scheduling, assigning goals for the day, running meetings, and being the point person for questions). The person in this position will also manage farm operations using the well-organized systems already in place which will include executing a weekly task list, ensuring regular wholesale orders, deliveries and farmer market preparations happen smoothly and on time. This work is comparable to restaurant work in that the products we handle (flowers) are time sensitive and perishable. The work environment is outdoors, fast-paced, labor-intensive, and also, very rewarding.
This person will work closely with the farm owner to make decisions and get feedback. Since this is a very small team, the person in this position will also be “in the trenches” with the field crew on a regular basis. While we do have a tiered system of responsibilities, no farm task is considered below someone’s pay grade. Some days are full of many varied tasks, while others are more routine. While we have fun, we are also dedicated to staying focused on completing the farming tasks in an efficient manner, regardless of the rain, wind, heat, or sometimes beautiful weather. This position does not include much floral design. In other words: if you have dreams of arranging flowers or florist duties – this is NOT the position for you.
You’ll be asked to work along with other staff and/or volunteers, as well as, sometimes on your own. Clear and concise communication skills are a must. This work often requires doing the same task for a sustained period of time while remaining focused, staying calm in a sometimes chaotic environment, maintaining safety when using tools/equipment, and a positive attitude even in less than ideal weather conditions. You must be able to sustain both bending and squatting positions for sustained periods of time (transplanting and harvesting flowers), as well as, lift up to 40 lbs.
Work Logistics:
5 days/week plus rotating weekend chores or farmer’s markets. Off days are Wednesdays and Sundays. Some staff will go to markets on Saturdays, and other work is located at the farm or regionally doing deliveries. Employees must commit to working through the whole season (Late March through mid-December).
We work 5 to 8 hours a day, depending on the time of year. Hours vary throughout the season: usually 30-35 hours per week. Each day starts with a brief stand-up meeting setting goals for the day. We take 30 min lunch breaks every full day.
Annual raises and bonuses are dependent on job performance and company financial health. Additionally, there is potential for individual employee sales commissions. Benefits include: $100 monthly health stipend, one-on-one healthcare.gov insurance counseling, and 30 hours paid sick time per season. Employees get fresh flowers to take home every week. Space available at the farm for a personal veggie garden.
Employees are responsible for having a valid driver’s license, housing, reliable transportation to the farm, and appropriate farm clothes/rain gear/boots. Employees must wear a wristwatch every day.
This position is seasonal for one growing year. However, job satisfaction and rewards deepen over multiple years. Hourly wage commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Desired Qualifications:
3-5+ years management experience
Excellent communication (both in person and written)
Detail-oriented
Motivated by accomplishing goals
Proactive
Problem-solver
Good interpersonal skills
Willingness to communicate with diverse groups of people
Positive attitude
Love for nature
No farm experience necessary, but farm/garden experience is helpful!
Responsibilities will include:
Day-to-day management of small crew
Scheduling
Execute a weekly task board
Customer service
Working closely with the farm owner, seasonal staff, volunteers, seasonal interns, etc.
Farm field work (transplanting, tending plants, weeding, harvesting, inventorying flowers, etc.)
Preparing for weekly farmer’s markets and seasonal workshops
Promoting the farm at markets, farm tours, and community events around town
Supporting the retail and wholesale sales of flowers
Delivering flowers around CU when needed
Submit resume, cover letter, and two references via our website form. Application deadline Feb 22nd. Priority will be given to candidates with management experience. www.DelightFlowerFarm.com
Salary: Based on experience
