Farm Manager Salary

Farm managers oversee the overall operation of a farm, including planning and managing production and handling business administration. The extent of a farm manager's duties and activities depends in large part on the size and complexity of the farm, as well as the type of farm. Generally, though, farm managers plan and direct activities such as planting, growing, and harvesting crops or breeding and raising livestock. They hire, train, and supervise workers and plan, coordinate, and direct their activities. Typical farm managers inspect farm buildings and equipment, making sure that routine maintenance is carried out and repairs are made when necessary. Farm managers are also responsible for ensuring that farm operations and practices meet health, safety, and environmental standards and regulations. Work is often physically strenuous, with long work hours and rare days off during harvesting season. Much time is spent outdoors, usually in more rural areas. Experience in an agricultural setting is useful, but education is required in order to prepare for the scientific, business, and financial decisions required in modern farming; completion of a two- to four-year degree from a school of agriculture is desirable. Ongoing education is required to stay current with advancements in technology and new farming techniques. Farm managers also must remain current with relevant regulations, especially those relating to the environment. Farm managers must have technical knowledge of plants, planting conditions and diseases if crops are grown on the farm; for livestock and dairy farms, managers must possess knowledge of animal husbandry and basic veterinary science. Farm managers must possess a mechanical aptitude for the farm equipment, commitment, business skills, and managerial aspects.

Farm Manager Tasks