Family Farm Food Safety Program Manager at CAFF

For more information visit: www.caff.org/about/job-ops/

Job Description: The Manager of the Family Farm Food Safety Program will develop a food safety program at CAFF that is focused on advising California specialty crop farmers on developing farm-level food safety plans, particularly small- and medium-scale family farmers engaged in direct marketing. Many such farmers have no experience with food safety issues. The idea is to create a position that is not simply a food safety auditor but is instead an advocate and advisor for California family farmers. The Manager will become familiar with all relevant food safety GAPs and outreach programs, including USDA and state programs, specialty crop-specific programs, private auditing firms’ programs, UC recommendations, as well as programs developed by the Produce Safety Alliance at Cornell. The manager will also be familiar with food safety requirements of California retailers, food service companies, processors, and other potential purchasers of family farm specialty crops. In collaboration with project partners from the University of California and other organizations, the Manager will conduct workshops for farmers and will be available for personal one-on-one consultations and farm visits with the target specialty crop farmers, in order to assist them in developing their own farm food safety plans. The Manager will also participate in a variety of conferences and other public processes related to food safety.

Eligible applicants must possess the following skills and experience:
• Farming experience, specialty crop experience desirable
• Food safety farm program implementation in one or more specialty crops and/or auditing experience, preferably both
• Interest in and familiarity with organic, biodynamic and sustainable agriculture
• Strong writing and verbal communications skills
• Self-directed, entrepreneurial and collaborative work style
• Willingness to travel in state as needed
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline
• A strong desire to defend the interests of family farmers

Terms: This is a full time salaried position with health benefits. The position will be located in Davis at Glide Ranch. The position is funded for two years, 2012 and 2013, by a Specialty Crop Block Grant award from CA Department of Food and Agriculture/USDA. Its continuation beyond 2013 will be contingent on securing additional funding. CAFF provides a competitive benefits package, and is an equal opportunity employer.

To Apply: Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume and the names and contact information of three references to info@caff.org. The position will be open until filled.