Wingate Agriculture Research Farm Manager and Instructor

Wingate Companies; North Carolina; On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Wingate University seeks a full-time Farm Manager to lead the Research and Education Farm, oversee operations, safety, and program growth, and provide hands-on learning for undergraduates in Agricultural Food Systems. The role emphasizes collaboration with faculty and community partners to advance teaching, research, and outreach.

The ideal candidate has an MS in a related field, teaching experience, and at least two years of farm management, with a service-oriented leadership style and a

Qualifications

• Commitment to serving diverse, first-generation and socio-economically challenged students.
• Willingness to work independently and in groups to support student success.
• Honest and transparent communication.
• Qualities of service leadership and a growth mindset.
• Equipment operation and maintenance skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Wingate University Research and Education Farm.
• Develop and facilitate hands-on learning experiences for students.
• Develop and maintain farm management plans, production schedules, SOPs, safety protocols, and records.
• Train and mentor student employees on farm safety, equipment operation, and best practices.
• Develop and maintain relationships with agricultural producers, Cooperative Extension, industry professionals, and community partners.
• Teach undergraduate courses in Agricultural Food Systems and related areas.

Skills

Diversity commitment

Teamwork

Honest communication

Service leadership

Equipment operation

Education

MS in Agriculture/Horticulture/Biology

Teaching experience preferred

2+ years farm management

Job description

Wingate University is a teaching-focused institution serving more than 3,600 students across two campuses. Located on a beautiful 500+ acre main campus, Wingate offers a close-knit, supportive community where employees can grow, contribute, and thrive. As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, Wingate is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and welcomes applicants who are excited to join our mission and make an impact. Learn more at University in Charlotte, NC | Quick Facts About Wingate. The mission of Wingate University is to develop educated, ethicaland productive global citizens. Following its Judeo-Christian heritage, the university seeks to cultivate the following in its students: Faith, Knowledge and Service. The University's Mission statement can be found here.

The Agricultural Food Systems Program seeks an experienced agricultural professional with demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching, experiential learning, and farm management. This is a full-time University staff Farm Manager position beginning in January 2027. The successful candidate will oversee the day-to-day operations, management, and continued development of the Wingate University Research and Education Farm; provide hands-on learning opportunities for students; and teach undergraduate courses in agricultural food systems and related areas. The Farm Manager will support agricultural research and community engagement, collaborate with faculty and community partners, and contribute to the continued growth and development of the Agricultural Food Systems Program. This position will work closely with the Agricultural Food Systems Director and other University and community partners to advance the educational, research, and outreach missions of the program and farm. The successful candidate will be team-oriented and demonstrate a service-oriented leadership approach and growth mindset. The candidate will contribute to an inclusive, collaborative, and equitable learning and work environment. The position will remain open until filled.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Farm management responsibilities will include oversight of the day-to-day operations, maintenance, safety, and continued development of the Wingate University Research and Education Farm.
• Develop and facilitate hands-on learning experiences at the Wingate University Research and Education Farm.
• Develop and maintain farm management plans, production schedules, standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and records related to farm activities, equipment, crops, livestock, and other agricultural enterprises.
• Train and mentor student employees and other individuals working at the farm, including providing appropriate training in farm safety, equipment operation, agricultural practices, and professional skills.
• Develop and maintain relationships with agricultural producers, Cooperative Extension, industry professionals, community organizations, schools, and other partners to enhance student learning, professional development, research, and community engagement opportunities.
• Teaching responsibilities will include undergraduate courses in Agricultural Food Systems, agriculture, and agroecology. Teaching may include lecture, laboratory, field-based, and experiential learning components.

Required Skills/Abilities

• A commitment to serving diverse, first-generation, non-traditional, and socio-economically challenged students.
• A willingness to work individually and in groups to support success in matriculation and persistence in the program.
• Honest and transparent communication
• Qualities of service leadership and a growth mindset
• Equipment operation and maintenance skills

Education and Experience

• M.S. in Agriculture, Horticulture, Biology, or other related field.
• Teaching experience is preferred.
• At least 2 years of farm management experience

Please submit a letter of interest, CV, teaching statement, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for 3 references.

Benefits & Employee Experience

Wingate University is committed to supporting employees both personally and professionally through a comprehensive benefits package and a collaborative campus community. Full-time employees are eligible for medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with institutional contribution; paid time off and holidays; tuition benefits for employees and eligible dependents; and access to campus facilities, wellness resources, and professional development opportunities.

In compliance with applicable law and University policies, Wingate University prohibits discrimination in its employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, sexual orientation or gender identity), age, genetic information, disability and veteran status and encourages qualified candidates across all group demographics to apply. At this time, we are currently seeking candidates with legal authorization to work in the U.S.