Assistant Production Systems Manager

Within the spirit of "Making People's Dreams Come True", this position is responsible for assisting the Production Systems Manager in the management of daily operations of The Villages Grown production systems. Production systems include but are not limited to the Hydroponic Production Growing Systems, AI Control System, Nutrient Delivery Systems, Harvesting Systems, Mechanical Shading Systems, Plumbing Systems, Production Software Systems, and the like. This position requires a great attention to mechanical detail, and an extensive knowledge base in hydroponic and aeroponic growing and controlled environment agriculture.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with programing, operating, train staff, and provide ongoing maintenance of TVG Production Systems: Hydroponic & Aeroponic Production Growing Systems, AI Control Systems, Nutrient Delivery Systems, Harvesting Systems, Mechanical Shading Systems, Plumbing Systems, Production Software Systems
• Assist with monitor labor and ensure that all tasks are completed in the most efficient manner
• Assist with the supervision of vegetable plant propagation and production at farm operations so that plants are grown in accordance with The Villages Grown standards
• Work with a diverse group of growers, data handlers, planters, sprayers, and irrigation technicians
• Enforce all safety guidelines and directives
• Assist with maintaining and improving upon systems integration of growing protocols
• Assist with maintaining greenhouse infrastructure, production equipment and mechanical systems
• Provide systems training and education to all members of The Villages Grown team
• Utilizes company software systems, and ensures team is trained properly on the systems
• Assist in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to Production Systems routine maintenance
• Educate on and enforcement of company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Thorough knowledge of Food Safety Modernization Act and all support Certification requirements
• Attendance at all required meetings
• Assist with necessary inter-department communications and logistics
• Complies with all local, state, and federal regulatory agencies including OSHA, FDACS, USDA, etc.
• Committed to food safety, Good Manufacturing Practices, and total quality with all of our products
• Driving company vehicle to pick up supplies and other driving, as needed
• Work with heavy machinery including Fork Lifts/Scissor Lifts/Pallet Jacks/ Tractors
• Utilization of hardware tools, power tools, pruning shears and other tools
• Utilization of cleaning agents
• Crop spraying of Biological, Natural/Organic inputs
• Available to work flexible shifts including evenings and weekends

Educational/Experience Requirements:

• Four (4) year degree in Agriculture, Agronomy (or related field), from an accredited institution, and/or equivalent work experience
• At least five (3) years of prior experience in agriculture (specifically Florida vegetable crop production), research and gathering of field information
• Excellent communication skills
• Three to five years of experience in greenhouse management utilizing Controlled Environment Agriculture growing methods including hydroponics and aeroponics
• Experience in developing, training, and managing greenhouse support staff
• A self-starter and leader that works well independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with plant nutrition and pest management
• Experience and knowledge of hydroponic production of vine, microgreens, and leaf crops
• Understanding of lighting systems and a variety of hydroponic and aeroponic technologies
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs
• Must be detail-oriented and able to multi-task
• Valid Driver's license and driving record acceptable to company standards

Preferred:

• Mechanical expertise
• Global Gap/Audit experience
• Pest and disease management experience
• Pesticide Applicator License
• PSA Certificate

Benefits for Full-Time eligible positions:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance | Basic Life & AD&D | Voluntary Life Insurance | HSA/FSA & 401k | PTO & Paid Holidays | The Villages® Charter School eligibility | and much more!