Program Manager at NESC Staffing

 

Job Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Project Manager for Florida Operations to lead our organization’s programming and initiatives in Central and South Florida. This role will be the primary staff to lead our Florida programming. This role is focused on facilitating access to USDA-FSA and USDA-NRCS farm programs for farmers within our Florida program, and building stronger relationships between farmers and USDA staff. This role will also need to foster a collaborative farmer network across beginning, small-scale, and immigrant farmers of color within Central and South Florida, building relationships and providing USDA outreach among new farmer networks. This role will oversee current production and marketing programming being conducted by World Farmers among an established group of small-scale vegetable farmers, and engage in hands-on support to farmers as needed. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in relationship development, farmer outreach, and USDA program engagement, and will hold experience in the food and agricultural spaces. This role will work closely with small and mid-scale Spanish-speaking farmers in Florida.



Key Responsibilities:

Educate Farmers on USDA Services and Access Options:

    Increase outreach and engagement with small and mid-scale socially disadvantaged farmers with the goal of building a collaborative farmer network.

    Educate farmers on USDA, detailing options for accessing USDA services and programs, and providing details on specific programs relevant to their business.

    Develop and deliver educational materials and resources to help farmers better understand their rights, benefits, and opportunities within USDA programs.

    Support farmers to access emergency and relief programs during climate disaster.

Build Relationships Between Small-Scale & Immigrant Farmers and USDA:

    Cultivate and facilitate strong relationships between small, mid-scale, socially disadvantaged farmers and local USDA offices and staff to create a culture of comfortability and trust, with the goal of enrolling farmers in USDA programs.

    Provide ongoing support and guidance for farmers navigating USDA services and program applications.

Implementation of Current Program Efforts:

    Organize and facilitate spaces (in-person or virtual) for farmers to connect, share resources, and collaborate on mutual goals related to food safety, market access, and USDA program participation.

    Engage individually across established groups of small-scale vegetable farmers to build relationships, and assist farmers in requests tailored to their specific operations and needs.

    Support in program efforts related to market standards, access, and planning;ensure compliance with food safety standards while facilitating sales.

    Support farmers in accessing production-related resources.

Administrative, Supervisorial, and Organizational Duties:

    Participate in staff meetings and other organization wide events and trainings.

    Ensure completion of all evaluation and reporting needs for program efforts, and participate in actively using our online work plan and reporting portal.

    Supervise any seasonal staff or interns assigned to your area of work.

    Participate in regular check-ins with your direct supervisor and other Leadership staff upon request.

 

Qualifications:

    Strong understanding of USDA programs, policies, and services, particularly in relation to small-scale farmers.

    Bilingual English-Spanish proficiency, both verbal and written is a must.

    Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in agriculture, food systems, USDA engagement, or a related field.

    Regional travel is required for farmer partnership development.

     Ownership of or access to reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license. 

     Must be able to pass a required background check. Must be authorized to work in the United States.[1] 

    Experience in providing agricultural training and conducting farm assessments.

    Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and sales management software.

    Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize, and meet deadlines, and a self starter.

    Passion for sustainable agriculture, social justice, and community development.

    Excellent communication, outreach, and relationship-building skills.

    Ability to work effectively with small and mid-scale farmers, particularly those from diverse backgrounds.

    Proven ability to manage multiple projects and initiatives concurrently.