Crop Scout

Blue Ridge Family Farms is hiring a full-time Crop Scout in Eidson, TN. The role involves monitoring crop health, identifying pests and diseases, and providing management recommendations. Responsibilities include data collection, weather monitoring, and collaboration with farm staff. Candidates should have a high school diploma, preferably an agriculture-related degree, and experience in crop scouting. Physical demands include outdoor work and lifting equipment.
Job Title: Crop Scout

Reports to: Crop Manager

Job Type: Full Time

Job Summary:

The Crop Scout is responsible for monitoring and assessing the health and growth of crops on the farm. The Crop Scout surveys fields, identifies pests and diseases, and provides recommendations for pest management and crop health to the Crop Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities:
• Monitor crop growth and development, including plant height, leaf color, and fruit quality
• Identify pests and diseases affecting crops, such as insects, weeds, and fungal diseases
• Collect and analyze data on pest and disease prevalence, and report findings to the Crop Manager
• Monitor weather patterns and assess potential risks to crop health, such as drought or flooding
• Provide recommendations for pest management and crop health to the Crop Manager, including suggestions for crop rotation, chemical applications, and irrigation practices
• Collaborate with other farm staff to coordinate pest management practices with planting and harvesting schedules
• Keep detailed records of pest management activities and crop health assessments
• Use technology such as drones, GIS, and remote sensing equipment to monitor crop health and assess growing conditions.

Qualifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in agriculture, agronomy, or a related field preferred
• 1+ years of experience in crop scouting or related field
• Knowledge of pest management practices and crop health assessment techniques
• Familiarity with agricultural technology such as drones, GIS, and remote sensing equipment
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as needed.

Physical Demands:
• The Crop Scout must be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions, stand and walk for extended periods of time, and lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment:
• The Crop Scout will work primarily outdoors in the field, with occasional indoor work required for data analysis and reporting. The job may require working in confined spaces and with chemicals, which may require the use of protective equipment.