Farm Operator
Brooklyn, NY
Job details
Job Type: Full-time
Full Job Description
Description Summary
This position is responsible for the production of Spirulina at our Brooklyn based indoor farm in the Sunset Park area. Responsibilities associated with this position include maintaining the Spirulina production system, including shut down, sanitation and start-up of the production system, and collecting and analyzing data to improve the efficiency of the existing system. This position requires attention to detail, adherence to SOP’s, documentation and record keeping. Employees in this position may be required to come in to work on weekends in case of emergencies. Employees in this position will receive 2-3 months training on growing and farm management of Spirulina from our core team.
Essential Job Responsibilities
Operating and maintaining the entire Spirulina production system through daily monitoring and adjustments.
Maintaining processing logs to understand the current condition of the processing system.
Harvesting Spirulina, cleaning, sanitizing, and restarting production systems in a timely manner.
Monitoring and optimizing all farm equipment including pumps, dewatering screens, lights and timers
Consistently maintaining all processing areas according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) requirements.
Maintaining inventory of all necessary items for continuous farm production including farm equipment, nutrients and chemicals.
Physical Demands
This position requires standing and working at the farm, a lab bench and sitting at a computer. Must be able to walk on wet surfaces safely, and lift up to 50 lbs.
Working Conditions
Work is performed inside under 85 degree temperatures. Position requires some handling of chemicals, with appropriate personal protective equipment. The daily duties may also include working in wet, slippery areas such as the farm floor on harvest days.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Aquaculture, Biology, Chemistry, Agriculture, Marine Science or relevant discipline.
One year of experience in algal production, aquaculture or farming preferred.
Ability to work efficiently and cooperatively in a farming/production environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel
Experience with microcontrollers and programming with Arduino
Ability to multi-task and adapt to changes in work assignments.
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
Strong verbal, written and interpersonal skills, as well as analytical testing skills.
Mechanical Abilities with good attention to detail
Able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.