ASU DIRECTOR OF FARMING

SUMMARY:

The Arkansas State University (ASU) Director of Farming is responsible for university farm operations. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

 Plans, directs, and monitors farm operations involving beef, poultry, sheep, swine, horses, fish, forage, row crop production, and dairy. Supervises a small-sized staff of farm managers by interviewing and selecting job applicants, reviewing and approving recommendations made by managers, evaluating work performance, and initiating personnel actions. Assists farm managers by providing advice and assistance concerning crop rotation, equipment repair, personnel problems, livestock reproduction, and disease control. Prepares budget request for farm operations by reviewing past expenditures, building and equipment maintenance needs, and future plans for operation. Reviews and approves requisitions for equipment and supplies submitted by farm managers. Confers with agencies and individuals outside the university in areas such as land shaping, drainage, irrigation, pasture and herd management, pesticide problems, and soil testing. Works with academic personnel to meet student needs in the areas of agricultural studies programs and experiments. 

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

 Knowledge of agricultural governmental regulations. Knowledge of livestock reproduction and disease control. Knowledge of irrigation techniques, pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer applications, and requirements for various crops. Ability to plan and direct a large farming operation and make adjustments and corrections. Ability to supervise a staff of subordinate farm managers. Ability to coordinate farming operations with outside agricultural agencies and personnel. 

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

 The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree with a major in agriculture, agricultural business, or related field; plus three years of experience in farming operations or a related area, including two years in a supervisory capacity. 

Additional requirements determined by the institution for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.