South Region Farming Operations VP

Columbia Farm Services; Quincy (WA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Phone allowance

Insurance coverage

401(k) matching

Job summary

Columbia Farm Services in Quincy, WA seeks a VP of Farming Operations for the South Region to lead orchard operations, manage budgets, and drive safety and compliance across all blocks. You will translate company strategy into a regional operating plan and partner with HR, agronomy, and North Region leadership.

The role requires 10+ years in tree fruit operations, multi-site management, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in agriculture-related field.
• 10+ years in commercial tree fruit operations with multi-site management.
• Proven record leading large seasonal workforces (100+).
• Strong knowledge of orchard practices, harvest logistics and labor planning.
• Experience owning operating budgets and explaining results vs. plan.
• Familiarity with agricultural labor law, WPS and food safety requirements.
• Clear communication with crews, managers, owners and executives.
• Proficiency with Excel, email and farm management/payroll systems.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel regionally.

Responsibilities

• Own day-to-day and seasonal farming operations across all South Region blocks (pruning, training, thinning, spraying, irrigation, harvest).
• Build the annual regional operating plan with area managers, agronomy and owners and enforce it.
• Set seasonal priorities and move crews, equipment and resources as conditions change.
• Visit blocks regularly to verify execution, quality and safety.
• Lead, coach, and evaluate area managers; build bench strength for leadership roles.
• Forecast regional labor needs by season and plan crew sizes and timing.
• Partner with HR on hiring and labor relations in the region.
• Manage regional operating budgets for labor, inputs, equipment and services.
• Track cost per acre and cost per bin; drive efficiency and cost control.
• Coordinate harvest timing and logistics with packers/warehouses.
• Present seasonal plans, progress and budgets in owner meetings and reports.
• Raise risks early and propose options when weather or markets threaten the plan.
• Champion safety-first culture; ensure PPE and safety rules are followed.
• Ensure compliance with Washington/Oregon labor laws and food safety audits.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Labor planning

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Safety programs

Strategic planning

Excel

Forecasting

Education

Bachelor's degree in agriculture, horticulture, agribusiness or related field

Tools

Farm management software

Payroll systems

Job description

Columbia Farm Services in Quincy, WA seeks a VP of Farming Operations for the South Region to lead orchard operations, manage budgets, and drive safety and compliance across all blocks. You will translate company strategy into a regional operating plan and partner with HR, agronomy, and North Region leadership.

The role requires 10+ years in tree fruit operations, multi-site management, and strong leadership.