Plant It Forward seeks Farm Programs Director
About Plant It Forward
Plant It Forward is a nonprofit organization based in Houston, TX, dedicated to empowering new American farmers by providing them with the resources and support they need to grow and sell fresh, sustainable produce. We are committed to cultivating a more inclusive and resilient food system while promoting economic independence for underserved communities. Through our programs, we foster a new generation of farmers, create access to fresh, local food, and strengthen the Houston community.
Job Overview
The Farm Programs Director at Plant It Forward is responsible for shaping and leading all farm-facing initiatives, ensuring that Houston’s new American farmers have the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to build sustainable, independent farms. This role encompasses strategic planning, resourcing, and overseeing the implementation of our core farm programs, including the Farmer Education Programs (Apprentice Program, Incubator Program, and other outreach and educational efforts), as well as the management of our urban farm sites.
In collaboration with the CEO, the Farm Programs Director will develop innovative strategies to drive the growth and impact of our farm programs. The ultimate goal of this position is to provide new American farmers with the resources and support needed to thrive in their farming ventures, creating a lasting impact on the Houston farming community.
The Director plays a pivotal role in designing strategic goals and executing them effectively, ensuring that Plant It Forward’s farm operations, farmer education, and site management all align with our mission to foster a resilient, diverse farming ecosystem in Houston.
Key Program Goals
Farm Program Development & Management
- Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of PIF’s farmer education programs, including the Apprentice Program, Incubator Program, and additional outreach efforts.
- Oversee the development of new urban farm sites, including assessing land opportunities, managing site preparation, and fostering partnerships.
- Manage project timelines and milestones for various programs, ensuring deadlines are met and resources are allocated effectively.
- Oversee the farm program budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources and timely payments to vendors and contractors.
- Assist with grant writing, evaluation, and reporting as necessary, securing financial resources for ongoing and future projects.
- Use program data to inform strategy and guide decision-making, ensuring that farm programs evolve to meet the needs of farmers and the broader community.
People Management
- Manage Farm Team Managers and Coordinator(s) by providing guidance, coaching, and performance evaluations.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with PIF network farmers, offering support, advice, and conflict resolution when needed to maintain a productive and positive working environment.
- Provide ongoing technical resources and coaching to network farmers on essential farming practices such as crop rotation, pest management, irrigation, weather response, and sustainable farming techniques.
- Troubleshoot challenges faced by farmers, stepping in when necessary to provide on-site guidance, mentorship, or additional support to ensure farm success.
- Represent Plant It Forward in the local farming community, and build strategic partnerships with landowners, local organizations, city officials, and others to enhance the farm program’s impact.
Oversight of PIF Urban Farms
- Enable land access by connecting farmers to current land opportunities and by creating long-term opportunities for agricultural land access in the Houston region.
- Take the lead in launching new farm sites, ensuring that proper systems are in place for long-term operational success, including scoping, planning, and securing the necessary resources.
- Ensure urban farm sites are properly managed, including overseeing infrastructure and ensuring the physical appearance of the farm meets community and neighborhood standards.
- Work closely with farmers to manage shared farm resources, track maintenance needs, and troubleshoot equipment failures.
- As a small, locally focused nonprofit, this role may require flexibility and the willingness to take on additional responsibilities not explicitly outlined in this job description to support the organization’s overall mission and goals.
Key Skills & Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field is preferred.
Years of Experience
- 10+ years of experience (6-7 years of direct experience in farm program development, agriculture, or a related field)
- Experience managing small teams, collaborating with diverse groups, and engaging with community partners.
Special Skills & Application of Knowledge
- Farming Knowledge: Understanding of sustainable vegetable farming, crop management, and farming systems, particularly in urban or small-scale farming environments.
- Project Management Skills: Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to plan, track, and execute projects from inception to completion.
- Cross-Cultural Communication: Experience working in cross-cultural settings and effectively communicating with farmers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Self-Starting: Experience taking ownership over the design and implementation of programs.
- Resourceful & Creative: Proactive in troubleshooting any challenges that arise ensuring smooth and effective program implementation.
- Knowledge of Local Food Systems (Preferred): Familiarity with the food and farming landscape in Texas, including key stakeholders, partners, and local initiatives aimed at enhancing food sovereignty and supporting farmers.
- Grant & Program Management (Preferred): Proficiency in managing USDA or similar grant programs, including developing program budgets, timelines, and activities, as well as writing grant proposals and providing progress reports.
Reports to: CEO
Salary Range: $70,000 – $80,000 / annually
Benefits: 401K plan with 2% match, 12 paid holidays plus 1 paid day off earned each month, complimentary weekly Farm Share subscription (a $1,800 value), monthly healthcare stipend ($300 value)