FARMER TRAINING MANAGER

POSITION SUMMARY

The Farmer Training Manager will lead VYCC’s farm pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, helping young adults develop the skills, knowledge, and experience to pursue careers in farming. Working closely with the Food & Farm team, this position integrates structured learning and mentorship into the daily operations of VYCC’s certified organic vegetable farm.

Responsibilities include developing training plans, coordinating instruction and skill assessments, mentoring participants, and building partnerships with farms, educational institutions, and agricultural organizations to support continued learning and employment opportunities.

The ideal candidate has diversified organic vegetable production experience and a strong interest in teaching and mentoring aspiring farmers. They bring a practical, supportive approach to skill-building and helping participants grow as farmers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Farmer Training & Curriculum

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of VYCC’s farm pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs.
• Develop training plans, assessments, lesson plans, skill checklists, and instructional materials that combine hands-on production experience with related technical instruction.
• Coordinate classroom sessions, farm visits, and other learning opportunities with VYCC staff and external partners.
• Support instruction in crop planning, soil health, propagation, planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest management, harvest and post-harvest handling, equipment operation, organic production, food safety, and recordkeeping.

Participant Supervision, Mentorship & Support

• Supervise, coach, and mentor farm pre-apprentices and apprentices through regular check-ins, progress assessments, and individualized support.
• Help participants build confidence, leadership, communication, and workplace skills, connecting them with supportive services when barriers to participation arise.
• Support participants in transitioning to employment, further education, farm apprenticeships, or other opportunities.
• Work with Rural Vermont and other agricultural partners to develop a network of host farms and employers that can provide graduates with further training and employment.
• Maintain awareness of agricultural career opportunities across Vermont.
• Collaborate with the Senior Community Engagement Manager to track participant outcomes and maintain alumni relationships.

Farm-Based Training & Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with Production Managers and the farm team to integrate structured learning into daily operations while balancing production needs and participants’ training goals.
• Coordinate participant schedules and assignments with seasonal farm priorities, ensuring meaningful opportunities for skill development.
• Provide or coordinate training in the safe operation of farm tools, equipment, and machinery.
• Model high standards for farm safety, food safety, organic production, work quality, and professionalism.
• Participate directly in farm work, particularly during high-need seasonal periods.
• Work with Food & Farm, education, and youth development staff to integrate VYCC’s service-learning and leadership model into agricultural training.

Program Administration & Evaluation

• Maintain accurate records of attendance, training hours, competencies, evaluations, and participant progress.
• Coordinate documentation required for apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, grants, and other program requirements.
• Contribute to budgets, grant reporting, work plans, and funding proposals.
• Track outcomes, including retention, competency attainment, program completion, employment, continued education, and advancement in agriculture.
• Participate in program evaluation, continuous improvement, and organizational planning, using findings to strengthen program design and delivery.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Three or more years of professional farming experience, preferably in diversified vegetable production and/or organic farming.
• Experience teaching, training, mentoring, or supervising emerging farmers, young adults, apprentices, interns, or employees.
• Experience developing or implementing training programs, curriculum, competency-based learning, apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, or workforce development programs preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to set clear expectations and provide mentorship and support.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with farmers, educational institutions, and community partners.
• Commitment to an inclusive, supportive, and accessible learning environment for participants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and learning styles.
• Degree or formal training in agriculture, agricultural education, education, or a related field preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet VYCC’s driving requirements.
• Ability to work outdoors and perform physical farm work in varying weather conditions.

ABOUT VERMONT YOUTH CONSERVATION CORPS

VYCC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that engages young people in service, work, conservation, and agriculture. Since 1985, VYCC has provided valuable work and learning opportunities to youth and young adults from across the country and nearly every town in Vermont. Our model is simple: young people working together, guided by highly trained leaders, to complete priority projects in conservation and agriculture.

OUR WORKPLACE

This position is based at VYCC’s campus in Richmond, VT. Our open office encourages collaboration while allowing staff to maintain focus, independence, and initiative. Staff enjoy access to the farm and forest campus year-round, as well as nearby downtown Richmond.