Organic farming / Market Gardening

Position: Organic Farm Production Manager in training – Market Garden
Farm: Cold Springs Organics | Share

Location: Elizabethville, near Port Hope, Ontario
Housing: Affordable On-Farm Housing: Housing accommodations available for a seamless transition to farm life.
Note: Applicants must be legally eligible to work in Canada.

Company Overview

Cold Springs Organics is a certified organic farm nestled in the stunning Northumberland Hills of Ontario. Spanning 105 acres of rolling land, a spring-fed creek, and breathtaking views, our farm is dedicated to producing nutrient-dense food using regenerative farming and bio-intensive methods, inspired by industry leaders like JM Fortier and Eliot Coleman.

Since 2020, we've been at the focused on sustainable agriculture, growing high-quality organic produce and connecting local families with the food they eat and the environment they cherish.

Our mission: To cultivate the best organic produce, foster community connections, and set the standard for how small farms can thrive while protecting the planet.

Join us in creating a future where small-scale, sustainable farming feeds and inspires communities.

Position Overview: Organic Farm Production Manager in training – Market Garden

Are you ready to take your organic farming career to the next level? Cold Springs Organics is seeking a Production Manager to lead our farm operations and be a vital part of our leadership team.

This role is perfect for an experienced farm professional passionate about organic agriculture, regenerative farming practices, and leading teams in a dynamic, hands-on environment.

In 2025, the selected candidate will train under our current Production Manager, gaining comprehensive knowledge of the farm’s systems and operations. From 2026 onward, you’ll lead our team of local staff and temporary foreign workers in cultivating and harvesting a diverse range of organic vegetables, fruits, and mushrooms, all while contributing to the farm’s growth and success.

We’re looking for a motivated, experienced leader eager to make a long-term commitment and grow alongside us.

Key ResponsibilitiesTraining Period (2025):

• Collaborate with the team on essential tasks such as soil preparation, seeding, transplanting, weeding, pruning, trellising, pest management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
• Oversee infrastructure projects, such as the installation of caterpillar tunnels and irrigation systems.
• Operate farm equipment, including the BCS two-wheel tractor and other tools.
• Act as a team leader in the absence of the current manager, supported by the farm owner.

Leadership Role (2026 and Beyond):

• Lead daily farm operations, including fieldwork, nursery management, harvesting, packing, and team supervision.
• Foster a collaborative and productive team environment, set structured goals, and hold regular team meetings.
• Oversee crop planning, soil management, and continuous system improvement in partnership with the farm owner.
• Ensure compliance with organic certification standards and farm safety protocols.
• Mentor team members, promoting skill development and a commitment to high-quality organic farming practices.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in farm operations: Prior experience in a role beyond farm hand, such as team lead, supervisor, or assistant farm manager.
• Expertise in organic and regenerative agriculture: Knowledge of low-till farming, cover cropping, and sustainable practices.
• Hands-on experience with farming equipment, tools, and irrigation systems.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with a proven ability to manage and motivate teams.
• Physical stamina and resilience to work in a variety of outdoor conditions.
• A commitment to environmental stewardship and a passion for sustainable food systems.
• Bonus: Willingness to learn Spanish to collaborate effectively with our diverse team.

Perks of the Job

• Work in Nature: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Northumberland Hills, with thriving gardens and rolling landscapes.
• Access to Organic Produce: Receive fresh, nutrient-dense food straight from the farm.
• Affordable On-Farm Housing: Housing accommodations available for a seamless transition to farm life.
• Diverse and Engaging Work: Lead a team in dynamic, varied tasks—no two days are the same!
• Professional Growth: Leadership opportunities, skill-building, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the farm’s future.
• Retention Bonus: Long-term commitment rewarded through incentive programs.

How to Apply

If you’re excited to take on a senior leadership role in organic farming, we’d love to hear from you!

Submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and passion for sustainable agriculture to info@coldspringsorganics.com .

Please mention you saw this at FoodWork.ca.

Applications are open until February 28, 2025.

Join Us in Cultivating Connection, Growing Nutrient-Dense Food, and Building a Better Future.

Be a leader in organic farming innovation, inspire local families, and help create a sustainable food system.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Contract length: 6 months
Pay: $20.00-$21.00 per hour
Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Additional pay:

• Retention bonus

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• Give us an example of a time that you demonstrated initiative on the farm.
• Give us an example of a time that you demonstrated leadership in a previous job.

Experience:

• farming: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 2025-02-28
Expected start date: 2025-05-05