Processing Mahi'ai Waena - Intermediate Farmer

MAO Organic Farms is seeking an Intermediate Farmer to support washing, packing, and quality control operations, as well as direct sales at Farmers Markets. Responsibilities include managing interns, maintaining equipment, promoting teamwork, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Candidates should have an associate's degree in a relevant field, 2 years of organic agriculture experience, and a commitment to sustainable food practices. The position is based in Waianae, HI.
Reports To: Farm General Manager & Receiving & Processing Lead

Organization:

MAO Organic Farms (MAO), located in Lualualei Valley, Waianae, is a social enterprise of the Waianae Community Re-Development Corporation (WCRC), a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Established in 2000, MAO grows organic food and new leaders for a sustainable Hawaii. For the first 18-years in operation MAO managed 24-acres of certified organic land, now we've grown to 280-acres in Lualualei Valley. This new aina presents a huge kuleana - to manage land and water with aloha, and to radically increase the production of nutritious local organic food, while empowering a new generation of leaders to serve Hawaii nei.

Job Summary:

Processing Mahiai Waena supports the washing, packing and quality control operations as well as direct sales at Farmers Markets, while supporting day to day farming activities to provide certified organic vegetables and fruits to co-producers and community.

Detailed Responsibilities:
• Manages teams of interns, teaching basic farm and food processing skills, and providing guidance and support to ensure efficient and safe operations;
• Operation, maintenance and sanitation of the vehicles, wash lines, equipment and tools, and adjacent areas of the processing facility;
• Communicate and collaborate with colleagues to ensure operations are matched/aligned with production, processing, and the mission of WCRC-MAO;
• Foster a positive work environment and promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement;
• Work independently or with groups to contribute to efficiency of washing, handling, processing, and packaging fruits and vegetables;
• Lead Farmers Markets crews at either Waianae, Pearl Ridge or Kakaako;
• Processing facility support to ensure the space is compliant with food safety regulations;
• Occasionally support delivery routes.

Required Qualifications:

We are looking for an individual who aspires to become a manager with the long-desire to learn, and evolve their leadership skills. A successful candidate will need a 110% commitment to growing and selling the best local organic food imaginable, and be a team player. The candidate will need to motivate young adults in a hands-on organic farm environment, where an attention to detail and accuracy is critical. A good sense of humor, and a love of good fresh food will really help. Minimum experience we're looking for includes:
• Associates degree in Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Botany, Environmental Science, Sustainable Community Food Systems, Engineering, Community Development, Culinary Arts, Food Science, Hawaiian Studies or a related field;
• 2-years experience in organic agriculture and/or farming;
• Knowledge of a wide range of fruits and vegetables - organic growing practices, harvest/handling techniques, culture and culinary uses;
• Sense of independence, and good communication skills;
• Ability to listen, think clearly and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment;
• Attention to detail especially as it relates to safe food production;
• Knowledge of and/or interest in Hawaiian cultural traditions with a commitment to the Hawaii's rural communities and the Leeward Oahu region;
• Driver's license with a responsible driving history, comfortable driving heavy trucks and equipment, trailers (under 16,000GVW) Able to work for long periods in a hot environment and lift up-to 50 pounds; and
• Proficiency in working with computers, especially Google Workspace, Slack and Microsoft Office.

Required Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Botany, Environmental Science, Sustainable Community Food Systems, Engineering/Community Development, Culinary Arts, Food Science, Hawaiian Studies or a related field
• Additional experience in fresh food processing, engineering, sustainable community development, or related fields.

Compensation:

Salary range $45,065 to $51,163 annually, based on experience and education.

Benefits include: Medical and dental coverage; Paid vacation, sick and holiday time; Employer sponsored 401K Plan; fresh, Organic fruits and vegetables!