Assistant Farm Manager - Kent -£35,000 - £45,000 DOE + Overtime + Accommodation

Assistant Farm Manager

Assistant Farm Manager- Kent -£35,000 - £45,000 DOE + Overtime +Accommodation

Hours:

Monday to Friday, 07:00 - 16:00 (Flexibility required during harvest)

The Job:

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Assistant Farm Manager to join a modern and diversified farming business in Kent. Reporting to the Farm Manager, you will be the lead person on the ground responsible for delivering the weekly farm plan and overseeing the day to day operation of the farm. This is a hands on role requiring a combination of practical farming expertise, staff management skills and mechanical knowledge.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the farm spraying programme, ensuring all crop protection activities are completed safely and effectively
• Oversee soil health management and all aspects of cultivation operations
• Manage the full cycle of hop production, including bine cutting, pegging, stringing and wirework repairs
• Oversee hop harvesting activities and support the operation of the processing facility
• Supervise, motivate and support permanent farm employees and seasonal staff during peak periods
• Ensure health and safety standards are maintained across all farm operations
• Maintain and repair farm machinery and equipment, ensuring the fleet remains operational
• Carry out maintenance and repairs on specialist hop harvesting and processing machinery
• Support wider estate management activities, including fencing, ditching and general farm upkeep
• Work closely with the Farm Manager to deliver operational objectives and continuous improvement initiatives

The Company:

Our client is a modern and diversified farming business specialising in hop production for the brewing industry. Alongside its agricultural operations, the business is involved in environmental and biodiversity projects, public engagement activities and value added ventures. With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, the business offers an excellent opportunity to join a progressive farming enterprise.

The Candidate:

• Significant experience within hop production, top fruit or a comparable commercial farming environment
• Strong practical farming background with experience across crop production, cultivation and harvest operations
• PA1, PA2 and PA3 qualifications essential
• Forklift and/or telehandler certification required
• Strong mechanical aptitude with experience maintaining and repairing agricultural machinery and equipment
• Welding and fabrication skills desirable
• Proven ability to supervise and manage a small team while working independently
• Good communication skills with the ability to maintain clear records and report effectively
• Reliable, self motivated and capable of prioritising workloads in a fast-paced environment
• Own transport and flexibility to work additional hours during harvest periods

The Package:

• Salary of £30,000 - £45,000 DOE
• Overtime opportunities
• Pension scheme
• Holiday pay
• Free on site parking
• Accommodation available, subject to contract
• Opportunity to join a progressive and diversified farming business

Candidate Requirements

All applicants must hold a minimum of an NVQ Level 2, Scottish NVQ Level 2, or an equivalent qualification relevant to the role applied for. Candidates must also have the legal right to work in the UK or hold a valid visa permitting employment.