FARM MANAGER

State of Arkansas; Grady (AR); On-site; USD 76,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Arkansas Cummins Unit Farm is seeking a Farm Manager to plan, direct, and coordinate operations of a state-managed farm, including crop production, livestock oversight, and staff supervision.

The role emphasizes compliance with ADEQ and OSHA, cost-effective practices, and leadership of farm staff, including incarcerated individuals where applicable. Four years in agricultural operations with leadership experience are required.

Qualifications

• At least four years of experience in agricultural production or farm operations, with at least one year in a leadership role.
• Experience supervising farm workers and scheduling tasks.
• Knowledge of ADEQ/OSHA safety standards and environmental regulations.
• Ability to interpret soil data, manage budgets, and coordinate procurement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage annual farm plans for crop rotation, livestock care, soil conservation, and budgeting.
• Supervise, train, and schedule daily tasks for farm workers, including seasonal labor.
• Monitor equipment maintenance, irrigation systems, fencing, and farm infrastructure.
• Maintain records of planting, harvesting, animal health, and yields.
• Oversee procurement of feed, seed, fuel, tools, and related supplies.
• Oversee animal husbandry duties including feeding, breeding, and care.
• Enforce safety standards and comply with ADEQ and OSHA guidelines.
• Prepare reports and present updates to agency leadership.

Skills

Farm management

Budget development

Safety practices

Personnel management

Soil data interpretation

Leadership and planning

Job description

Position Number: 22087279

County: Lincoln

Posting End Date: 12/31/2026

Anticipated Starting Salary: $76,335.00

Location: Cummins Unit - Farm - Grady, AR

The mission of the Department of Corrections is to be a public safety resource for Arkansas families by providing professional management solutions and evidence-based rehabilitative initiatives for offenders.

All DOC positions are designated as Safety Sensitive Positions and are subject to random drug testing pursuant to the Secretarial Directive governing Personnel Drug Testing. Medical marijuana usage, as defined in Amendment 93 of the Arkansas Constitution, prohibits Personnel in a Safety-Sensitive Position from the use of medical marijuana even if they are qualifying patient under the amendment and/or hold a registry identification card. Department Personnel are prohibited from the use or possession of a medicinal marijuana card pursuant to this policy and state law.

Position Information

Job Series: Agricultural Trades - Competitive

Classification: Farm Manager

Class Code: TAG02C

Pay Grade: SGS10

Salary Range: $76,335 - $112,976

Job Summary

The Farm Manager is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the operations of a state-managed farm or agricultural facility. This position oversees crop production, livestock management, and daily labor while ensuring compliance with state and federal agricultural regulations. The Farm Manager plays a key leadership role in optimizing productivity, supervising farm staff (including incarcerated individuals where applicable), and implementing sustainable and cost-effective agricultural practices.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and manage annual farm plans for crop rotation, livestock care, soil conservation, and budgeting.
• Supervise, train, and schedule daily tasks for farm workers, including seasonal labor.
• Monitor equipment maintenance, irrigation systems, fencing, and farm infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, harvesting, animal health, fertilizer/pesticide use, and yield reports.
• Coordinate the purchase of feed, seed, fuel, tools, and other farm-related supplies while adhering to agency procurement rules.
• Oversee animal husbandry duties including feeding, breeding, medication, and care for livestock.
• Enforce safety standards and ensure compliance with Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and OSHA guidelines.
• Prepare reports and present operational updates to agency leadership or program supervisors.

Knowledge And Skills

• Knowledge of state and federal laws related to agriculture, modern farm management principles, and equipment operation.
• Knowledge of budget development, resource allocation, safety practices, and personnel management.
• Ability to interpret soil data and crop yields, lead large teams, and make practical decisions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities, apply chemicals or fertilizers, and think critically.
• Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.
• Skilled in troubleshooting, large-scale farm operations, and strategic planning.

Minimum Qualifications

At least four years of experience agricultural production, farm operations, ranch management, or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.