Orchard Manager (7346)

We are seeking a highly motivated Orchard Manager. Our ideal candidate is a horticulturist experienced in modern farming techniques who has worked in orchard management previously and is interested in a long-term opportunity. The ability to communicate proficiently in both English and Spanish is highly desirable. This full-time position will play a key role in R & L’s management team as the company transitions into the future.

R & L Orchard Co. is a family-owned farm of over 650 acres of conventional fresh and processing apples and five acres of fresh peaches, spread over the scenic hills of Adams County, PA, and employing a multicultural team of upward of 80 people during peak harvest.

• Manage the oversight of day-to-day operations of over 650 acres of apple and peach orchards and associated agricultural property in cooperation with management team
• Coordinate with management team in leading employees; compiling records on crops; creating schedules for planting, irrigating, spraying, fertilizing, pruning, mowing, and harvesting orchards; coordinating equipment readiness; directing harvest operations
• Monitor orchards for disease and pest issues, monitor plant and soil nutrient levels and plan nutrient applications, plan and administer pesticide spray program, supervise pesticide application and procurement/distribution, maintain pesticide and nutrient records, monitor weather and record data, manage and monitor irrigation systems, participate in or lead various cultural practices as needed, and keep records of trees and planting blocks
• Oversee, communicate with, manage, assess, and direct staff who report to this position
• Provide leadership in directing the field work force and coordinate with field supervisors to ensure timely completion of necessary farming practices
• Assist with and ensure proper training of workforce, provide corrective training as needed
• Maintain a culture of safety and safe work practices, assist with required safety training, act as member of Food Safety Committee and assume associated responsibilities
• Assist in maintenance and basic repair of equipment
• Attend educational seminars and conferences, engage in ongoing learning
• This position shall report directly to the President of R & L Orchard Co. and shall share duties with additional counterpart Orchard Manager

• Must have documented prior experience of at least five years in orchard management and operations; extensive horticultural experience in commercial apple production highly preferred
• Must be able to communicate proficiently in and read English; proficiency in Spanish highly preferred
• Must be able to regularly work Monday through Friday as well as some weekends and have on-call availability as seasonal needs demand
• Must be able to work both independently and collaboratively
• Must be able to plan ahead and consider the larger picture, balancing multiple tasks
• Must be able to create and maintain accurate records (e.g. pesticide application records)
• Must have or be able to obtain a valid driver’s license
• Must have or be able to obtain a PA Private Pesticide Applicator license
• Must be proficient in Excel and other Microsoft Office programs
• Mechanical aptitude preferred
• Prior experience with PrimusGFS, USDA GAP preferred

• Documented prior experience of at least five years in orchard management and operations

• High school diploma or GED

• Must be able to communicate proficiently in and read English
• Must have or be able to obtain a valid driver’s license
• Must have or be able to obtain a PA Private Pesticide Applicator license
• Must be proficient in Excel and other Microsoft Office programs

• Starting salary: $75,000+ based on prior experience
• Health, life, and disability insurance
• PTO
• Retirement plan
• Company-provided work vehicle