Farm Operations Specialist

Job Purpose

The Farm Operations Coordinator is responsible for overseeing daily farm operations, managing irrigation systems, and supervising farm personnel to ensure optimal crop production, efficient water usage, and sustainable agricultural practices. The role ensures that farm activities are well coordinated, irrigation infrastructure is properly maintained, and operational targets are achieved through effective team management.

Key Responsibilities

Farm Operations Management

• Coordinate and supervise daily farm activities, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, crop maintenance, and post harvesting.
• Monitor crop health and productivity and recommend improvements to farming practices.
• Ensure proper use, maintenance, and storage of farm equipment and tools.
• Maintain accurate records of crop cycles, inputs, yields, and operational activities.
• Ensure farm operations are executed efficiently to meet production and processing targets.

Team Leadership and Supervision

• Supervise, coordinate, and support farm workers to ensure efficient daily operations.
• Assign tasks and monitor work performance to ensure productivity and quality standards are achieved.
• Provide on-the-job training and guidance on farming techniques, irrigation practices, and safety procedures.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and adherence to farm policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety practices across all farm activities.

Irrigation Management

• Design, implement, and manage irrigation schedules based on crop needs, weather conditions, and soil moisture levels.
• Operate and maintain irrigation systems such as drip, flood, sprinkler, and pivot systems.
• Monitor water usage to ensure efficient water management and conservation.
• Troubleshoot and repair irrigation system issues including pumps, pipelines, valves, and controllers.
• Conduct routine inspections to ensure irrigation infrastructure is functioning optimally.

Post-Harvest Management

• Cleaning, sorting, milling, drying, and packaging agricultural products such as grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Ability to use equipment like grinders, dryers, and packaging machines safely and efficiently.
• Inspecting raw materials and finished products to meet food safety and industry standards.
• Performing routine checks and minor repairs on agro-processing equipment.
• Documenting production volumes, quality checks, and equipment usage.
• Following workplace safety protocols and food hygiene regulations.

Resource and Input Management

• Monitor the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and other farm inputs to ensure efficiency and compliance with agricultural standards.
• Coordinate with suppliers for irrigation equipment, seeds, fertilizers, and other farm materials.
• Support cost control and efficient use of resources related to farm operations and irrigation systems.

Compliance and Sustainability

• Ensure farm operations comply with environmental, agricultural, manufacturing and safety regulations.
• Promote sustainable water management and soil conservation practices.
• Support initiatives to improve farm productivity through modern agricultural techniques.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Irrigation Management, or related field.
• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in farm operations, irrigation management food manufacturing, or agricultural handling.
• Experience leading or supervising farm teams is preferred.
• Practical experience with irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, pivot).
• Knowledge of crop management, soil health, and water conservation techniques.
• Technical knowledge of agro-processing machinery and tools.

Core Competencies

• Farm Operations Management
• Irrigation Systems Management
• Post Harvest Management
• Team Leadership and Supervision
• Planning and Coordination
• Problem Solving and Troubleshooting
• Resource and Water Management
• Safety and Compliance