Dandelion Neurorelational Family Services Facilities & Farm Manager Fort Ripley, MN · Full time Company website

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WHO ARE WE?

Discovery Horse, a behavioral health and mental wellness agency, is a sanctuary nestled within a serene 15-acre therapeutic farm in Fort Ripley, Minnesota. Our dedicated team provides nervous systems-based, relationship-focused support, employing a holistic approach to guide individuals, children, and families through the challenges of trauma and toxic stress. In addition to our individual and group services, we offer an intensive family program that places a special emphasis on parents, providing them with education, support, and a sense of community. We believe in leading by example, and cultivating an organizational culture rooted in healthy, authentic connections. At Discovery Horse, we're not just about working for an organization; we're about working with it, fostering a paradigm shift towards workplace relationships built on mutual respect and genuine collaboration.

OUR MISSION:

We're on a mission to foster personal growth and empowerment, providing a space where individuals can uncover new insights, cultivate meaningful connections, and carry the essence of connection and wisdom into their daily lives. At the heart of our mission lies a dedication to fostering nervous system wellness, recognizing its profound impact on fostering connected and meaningful relationships. We prioritize nervous system education and wellness, equipping everyone we serve with the knowledge and tools needed to understand and nurture their own nervous system health. Safety, authenticity, collaboration, and trust are the cornerstones of our approach to building intentional relationships. We envision a world where everyone experiences a deep sense of belonging, security, and self-awareness, enabling them to navigate life's challenges with clarity and resilience.

WHO ARE YOU?

You are an experienced and resourceful individual with a strong background in farm management, animal care, and facilities oversight. Your leadership skills and ability to manage both people and resources make you a valuable asset to our team. You excel in planning and executing tasks, ensuring the efficient operation of both farm and facilities. Your commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and care for animals, staff, and facilities is paramount. You thrive in a dynamic environment, where your problem-solving skills and adaptability are constantly utilized. Your relational approach aligns with the values and practices of Discovery Horse, fostering a collaborative and respectful work culture.

WHAT THIS ROLE WILL DO

The Facilities & Farm Manager is a critical leader within the Discovery Horse team, overseeing the multi-building/15-acre farm property, animal care, equipment, and farm-related supplies. You will be responsible for hiring, training, and directing farm and property employees, ensuring clear communication and effective task management. Your role involves creating and maintaining farm and property budgets, managing inventory, and overseeing all maintenance and project activities. You will coordinate medical care for all animals, maintain health records, and ensure the integrity of animal habitats. Your strategic foresight will contribute to the sustainability and growth of Discovery Horse, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for maintaining Discovery Horse's multi-building/15-acre farm property, animal care, equipment, and farm-related supplies.
• Daily considers client calendar, weather, seasonal responsibilities, and daily tasks when planning and prioritizing tasks for self.
• Completes other duties as assigned.
• Provide each animal with a loving, structured, and safe environment based in connection. 
• Maintain a safe, clean and organized environment within the facility, on the farm and in commercial vehicles.
• Commit to learning the difference between compliance and cooperation and with a willingness to build relationships focused on consent and cooperation.
• Must communicate effectively with staff and be able to work within the confines of Discovery Horses’ busy client schedule.
• Maintains compliance with state and federal laws governing the work of DH, including but not limited to HIPAA compliance and state waiver programs.
• Regularly attends related compliance trainings as required.
• Actively seek opportunities for learning and development. 
• Practices humility & self-awareness, recognizing feedback as an opportunity to learn and grow.
• This position will work, in person, with hours that range from standard business hours to evening and/or weekend hours.
• Responsible for building trusted and connected relationships with fellow team members, resident animals and clients.
• Practices accountability in all organizational and programmatic policies, procedures, safety protocols & community agreements.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and continuing education opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Demonstrate sensitivity, empathy, and professionalism when interacting with clients and their families.
• Promotes consistency and predictability in animal care routines.
• Records and escalates any unusual animal observation.
• Ability to anticipate and prioritize activities and work safely within an equine environment is critical.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods, such as standing, walking, bending, stooping, and kneeling, for up to 3 hours at a time.
• Ability to lift 50-65 lbs repeatedly.
• Endurance to work long hours, especially during peak seasons, and to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Skill in using hands and arms to operate tools and equipment, such as shovels, rakes, pitchforks, and machinery.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as feeding animals, cleaning stalls, and handling tools
• Preferred competence in operating farm equipment, such as tractors, mowers, and other machinery, which may involve sitting, standing, or moving in confined spaces.
• Ability to move quickly and safely around the farm, including navigating uneven terrain, climbing ladders, and working in tight or elevated spaces.
• Physical stamina to work in harsh weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and wind.
• Ability to handle livestock, which may include restraining animals, moving them between locations, and performing tasks like grooming.
• Good eyesight and hearing for monitoring animal health, detecting signs of illness, and safely operating equipment.
• Steady balance and coordination for climbing ladders, scaffolding, or uneven surfaces, and for performing tasks that require precise movements.
• Capacity to adjust to varying work schedules, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Due to the unpredictable nature of the needs of the farm, this role is expected to be available to work outside of the typical working hours to accommodate weather-related needs (ex. snow removal), staff shortages, and farm events, among other occasions.
• Must be able to pass a background study with the MN department of Human Services. 
• Submits expense reports in a timely fashion.

ROLE SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides management and oversight for the daily care of all farm animals including feeding, watering, handling, grooming, medication, stall cleanliness etc.
• Provides management and oversight of the facilities and grounds,  fence maintenance, ensuring regular mowing, weed control, gardening, tree limb maintenance, landscaping, seasonal décor etc.
• Performs regular care of the grounds, fence maintenance, mowing, weed control, gardening, tree limb maintenance, landscaping, seasonal décor etc.
• Assists in preventative care, veterinarian appointments, farrier appointments and emergent care appointments.
• Maintain organized and thorough health records of all animals.
• Organizes the layout of barns, pastures, and grounds to best accommodate animals.
• Provides management and oversight of building and property maintenance tasks including general maintenance and equipment breakdowns to include commercial vehicles. Ensures timely repairs on equipment or facility issues.
• Responsible for building a trusted and connected farm and property team that cares for Discovery Horse and the Discovery Horse mission and vision.
• Responsible for hiring, training, overseeing and direct work of all farm / property employees.
• Provides clear direction and feedback to staff.
• Responsible for administrative tasks related to leadership such as timecard approvals, schedules, and vacation requests for staff. Coordinates coverage when staff is sick or on vacation, personally filling in where appropriate.
• Responsible for creating and maintaining farm and property budgets annually.
• Works to find vendors that supply the best product at the lowest cost.
• Serves as the Project Manager for all farm and property projects.
• May participate in the equine support team during equine sessions. 
• Responsible for overseeing daily animal care with the expectation that if a scheduled shift isn't covered the responsibility falls to this position to cover, regardless of day of the week/weekend.
• Responsible for the strategic forethought of the sustainability and growth of the Discovery Horse farm. Works with the co-founders to create a short-term and long-term strategy for growth on the property with special consideration of safety of the animals and visitors to the farm. (For example, irrigation, lighting, walk paths, fencing, parking, etc.)
• Ability to assess one's own regulation state in a multitude of environments and in varying levels of stress while modeling for staff.
• Willingness to actively participate and model  the rupture and repair cycle in relationships.
• Continuously deepen your understanding of neurobiology, interpersonal neurobiology and attachment theory through self-study and participation in professional development opportunities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, Facilities Management, Farm Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Additional certifications or coursework in facilities management, farm management, animal care, or agricultural operations are advantageous.

EXPERIENCE

• 5+ years of experience in farm management, with hands-on experience in overseeing farm operations, animal care,, and maintenance activities.
• 5+ years of experience in facilities management, including building maintenance, equipment management, and groundskeeping.
• 5+ years of experience in a leadership or management role, with proven ability to supervise teams, coordinate complex operations, and manage budgets.
• Experience with livestock management, specifically horses, including knowledge of animal health, nutrition, and welfare practices.
• Experience in project management related to farm or facilities improvement, expansion, or development.
• Familiarity with safety regulations and compliance requirements for both farm and facilities operations.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong leadership and team management skills to oversee both farm hands and facilities staff, ensuring effective coordination and communication.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities to juggle the various responsibilities of both farm and facilities management.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly and effectively address issues related to farm operations, animal care, building maintenance, or equipment failure.
• Proficiency in farm and facilities management software or basic computer skills for record-keeping, budgeting, and communication.
• Budget management experience to oversee and manage farm and facilities-related expenses, including inventory control, purchasing, and financial planning.
• Physical stamina and endurance to manage and participate in physically demanding tasks, including lifting, carrying, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with staff, vendors, clients, and possibly regulatory agencies.
• Attention to detail to ensure all operations comply with safety and health regulations, and that maintenance tasks are performed to a high standard.
• Knowledge of environmental sustainability practices in farming and facilities management is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean and safe driving record to operate farm vehicles and equipment is required. 
• Able to drive without supervision any commercial vehicles for outing and field trips, appointments and other supportive services.
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SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION

This position is deemed as a “Safety Sensitive Position.” Company employees occupying a position considered “Safety Sensitive” under Minnesota law, in which, in the opinion of management, impairment caused by drug, cannabis, or alcohol usage would threaten the health or safety of any other person may be subject to testing on a random selection basis, at the discretion of management or based on the requirements of a client.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

We are passionate and committed to our people and go beyond the rhetoric of diversity and inclusion. You will be working in an inclusive environment and be encouraged to bring your whole self to work. We will do all that we can to help you successfully balance your work and home life. As a growing business, we will encourage you to develop your professional and personal aspirations, enjoy new experiences, and learn from the talented people you will be working with. It’s talent that matters to us and we encourage applications from people irrespective of their gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status or caring responsibilities.

Discovery Horse, LLC strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of age (40 and over), ancestry, color, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), family and medical care leave or the denial of family and medical care leave, mental or physical disability (including HIV and AIDS), marital status, domestic partner status, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, military and veteran status, political affiliation, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, and gender expression, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law, rule, ordinance or regulation.

We also afford equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with a disability. For this reason, Discovery Horse, LLC will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant consistent with its legal obligations to do so, including reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy in accordance with applicable local, state and / or federal law. As part of its commitment to make reasonable accommodations, Discovery Horse, LLC also wishes to participate in a timely, good faith, interactive process with a disabled applicant to determine effective reasonable accommodations, if any, which can be made in response to a request for accommodations. Applicants are invited to identify reasonable accommodations that can be made to assist them in performing the essential functions of the position they seek. Any applicant who requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job should contact Discovery Horse, LLC to request the opportunity to participate in a timely interactive process. Discovery Horse, LLC will also provide reasonable religious accommodations on a case-by-case basis.