Orchard and Farm Manager

Orchard and Farm Manager Schoolhouse Farm Hudson Valley, New York Schoolhouse Farm is an 18-acre orchard and chef-driven micro-farm in the Hudson Valley. We grow traditional cider and heirloom apples, rare and heritage fruits, berries, culinary herbs, and specialty vegetables for leading restaurants and beverage producers in New York City and the Hudson Valley. Our goal is to steward a resilient agricultural landscape while building long-term relationships with chefs and cider makers who value flavor, rarity, and transparency of sourcing. We are seeking an experienced, thoughtful, and highly organized Orchard and Farm Manager to help lead the next phase of Schoolhouse Farm. This is a leadership role for someone with deep experience in holistic orchard systems, strong organic management skills, and the ability to oversee both perennial and intensive specialty fields, greenhouse and high-tunnel crop production. The ideal candidate is a strong grower and passionate land steward who can also plan, organize, and lead a small farm team. Position Overview The Orchard and Farm Manager is responsible for the overall management, development, and long-term vision of Schoolhouse Farm's agricultural operations. This role combines hands-on farming with leadership, planning, financial oversight, and collaboration with ownership and culinary partners. The Orchard and Farm Manager oversees all aspects of production systems, including: Cider and heirloom apple orchards Top-worked and grafted specialty fruit blocks Sustainable, energy and resource-efficient greenhouse and high-tunnel installation and production (including rare citrus, sub-tropical fruits, hardy kiwi, and specialty nursery stock) Small fruit and berry systems Culinary herb and specialty vegetable gardens Perennial and experimental plantings Soil health and regenerative systems This role reports directly to ownership and works closely with consultants, chef partners, beverage collaborators, and seasonal staff. Core ResponsibilitiesOrchard & Perennial Systems Management Oversee orchard planning, planting, pruning, spraying, thinning, harvest, and post-harvest handling Manage grafted and top-worked, varietal conversion, and orchard expansion projects Apply for and maintain organic certification standards and recordkeeping, and pursue potential biodynamic and regenerative certifications in the future. Implement integrated, holistic pest and disease management systems that align with the farm and orchard strategic vision and certification compliance standards. Lead long-term soil health strategy, compost systems, and fertility planning Specialty Crop & Greenhouse Oversight Manage the installation and operation of sustainable, energy and resource-efficient greenhouses and high tunnels, as well as future production (rare citrus, nursery propagation, experimental crops) Coordinate seasonal planting plans for herbs, flowers, and specialty vegetables Develop propagation systems for orchard expansion and chef-specific crops Team Leadership Hire, train, and manage seasonal farm staff, including, as needed, the management and hiring of H2A workers for seasonal farm and orchard work Build a strong, respectful, high-accountability farm culture Lead daily work planning and weekly production meetings Ensure safe and efficient use of equipment and facilities Chef & Client Coordination Coordinate harvest timing and deliveries with restaurant and beverage partner Maintain high standards for quality, consistency, and post-harvest handling Communicate seasonal crop availability and projections Collaborate on new varietal trials and specialty plantings Operations & Planning Develop annual farm plans and contribute to longer-term orchard and farm development planning Develop and manage the operating budget and input purchasing in concert with ownership and the support team. Track yields, crop performance, and production metrics Oversee infrastructure projects (irrigation, fencing, greenhouse, and high tunnel expansion) Coordinate with cider and fermentation partners when applicable Contribute to the care and presentation of residential areas of the farm, including lawn management and maintenance of ornamental plantings Qualifications 5+ years of experience managing orchards and diversified specialty crop systems Strong knowledge of organic orchard, regenerative management, and soil health practices Experience leading and supervising farm teams Familiarity with Hudson Valley climate and pest pressures preferred Comfort with planning, budgeting, technology, and recordkeeping systems Experience with grafting, propagation, or nursery production is highly desirable Valid driver's license Tractor and equipment proficiency required Basic Equipment repair and maintenance skills. Ability to obtain and maintain a NYS Private Pesticide Applicator's License Personal Attributes We are looking for someone who: Thinks long-term and values land stewardship Communicates clearly and professionally Is highly organized, detail-oriented and reliable Enjoys building relationships with chefs and beverage professionals Balances pragmatism with experimentation Compensation, Benefits, and Schedule Starting salary: $75,000 - $90,000 (commensurate with experience) 14 non-consecutive paid vacation days (number of days increases with length of service) 10 paid federal holidays 5 NY State paid sick days Health insurance with 75% employer subsidy Simple IRA plan with Employer match (100% match on first 3%) This is a full-time, year-round farm, orchard, and greenhouse operation. The outdoor growing season runs from March to November, with some greenhouse and high tunnel production, especially in the shoulder season. The indoor growing season runs November-March with no outdoor production, though activities such as pruning will occur in this timeframe. Why This Role Is Unique Schoolhouse Farm is not a commodity farm. We are building a chef-driven agricultural estate rooted in rarity, flavor, and long-term soil health. The Farm Manager will play a foundational role in shaping the next decade of this landscape — from orchard expansion to rare fruit trials to cider-specific blocks designed for fermentation programs. This is an opportunity to steward land intentionally, work with ambitious culinary partners, and help build one of the Hudson Valley's most distinctive agricultural projects. Additional Considerations Relocation We welcome applications from candidates across the country who are excited about stewarding a dynamic orchard and farm in the Hudson Valley. For the right candidate, the farm may consider offering a relocation stipend to support the transition. Please note that housing is not provided as part of this position, and candidates are expected to independently arrange housing and reliable daily transportation to and from the farm. Physical Requirements This is a physically active, hands-on farming role. The Orchard and Farm Manager must be able to work extended periods outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform tasks that include lifting up to 50 lbs, bending, kneeling, climbing ladders, and operating small farm equipment. The role requires regular walking across uneven terrain and sustained participation in fieldwork. References and Background Check Final candidates will be asked to provide professional references who can speak to their experience managing agricultural operations, teams, and equipment. A background check will be conducted as part of the hiring process, particularly given the responsibility associated with overseeing property, staff, and farm assets. Cover Letter Please include a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience, approach to farm management, and interest in this role. We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate both operational discipline and a thoughtful, long-term approach to land stewardship and crop production.

Pay:

$75,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

Orchard:

3 years (Required)

Location:

Hudson, NY 12534 (Required)

Work Location:

In person