Program Manager - Community Agriculture & Food Access

Program Manager Community Agriculture & Food Access

Manatee County Government is seeking a Program Manager for Community Agriculture & Food Access. This position is responsible for developing, planning, implementing, managing, and reporting on community and micro gardening, school gardens, composting and soil health, agritourism and cooperative farming methods, food security and access to fresh, local produce. This includes oversight of the community gardens program that currently provides local areas for residents to learn how to grow their own produce. The Program Manager - Community Agriculture & Food Access will help identify community needs and tailor programs to engage youth, families, seniors, and underserved populations. This position will also collaborate with local organizations, schools, and stakeholders to expand program reach and impact, evaluate program effectiveness, and make data-driven improvements while promoting public participation through events, workshops, and educational campaigns.

Work Location : 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221

Work Hours : Monday - Friday 8 : 00 am - 5 : 00 pm

Expected Starting Salary Range : $65,118.41 - $84,653.94

Indoor and outdoor work environments possibly exposed to heat and other outdoor weather extremes. Sitting for long periods working on a computer. Lifting equipment or supplies up to 25 pounds alone and up to 50 pounds with assistance. Required to drive County vehicles and operate specialized field equipment as part of the duties of the job. Occasional overnight travel required. Occasionally required to work other than normal business hours (i.e., Mon.-Fri.).

Essential Functions :

Develop, implement, and oversee countywide food security programs and educational workshops. Coordinate across departments to integrate food security goals through hands-on learning. Evaluate programming and prioritize projects based on data-driven analysis. Lead public outreach campaigns, educational workshops, and events. Serve as the county's subject matter expert on community and micro gardens, school gardens, composting and soil health, agritourism and cooperative farming models, food security and access to fresh local produce. Respond to public inquiries and assist residents in food security and agritourism. Prepare reports for the Board of County Commissioners, and other governing bodies on program outcomes, impacts, and recommendations. Develop, promote, and deliver educational programs for youth, families, seniors, and underserved populations as it relates to the program area. Build an advisory committee composed of citizens and professionals that will assist with program priorities and design to reach desired audiences. Conduct needs assessments to analyze public interest, need, and use for program topics and projects. Maintain accurate records and performance metrics for internal reporting and public transparency. Cooperate in interdisciplinary projects. Performs other related work (including weather or extreme emergency duties) as required.

Minimum Qualifications :

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Agriculture Education, Plant Science, or other related field. Five(5) or more years of progressively responsible experience in agriculture, horticulture, or other related area. Two (2) or more years of supervisory experience (including direct reports, field crews, multi-discipline teams, etc.) Valid driver's license with valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of hire. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Able to prioritize tasks, deal effectively with competing and changing priorities, and meet deadlines. Accurate, detail-oriented, and organized. Able to analyze and resolve difficult and sometimes complex situations and problems. Excellent knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job responsibilities. Excellent knowledge and understanding of computer systems and software applications required to perform job duties. Excellent verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills, including public presentation skills, in order to interact professionally and effectively with staff, management, government agencies, community partners, vendors, and other stakeholders. Able to influence others regarding policies, practices, and procedures. Capable of working independently with limited supervision.