Assistant Crew Leader - Production

The Crew Leader Assistant supports the Farm Manager and Crew Leaders in the coordination and execution of daily planting and field production activities. This role assists in supervising crews, ensuring proper planting practices, maintaining equipment readiness, supporting quality standards, and promoting safe and efficient field operations in alignment with DFF Core Values.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

A. Production & Planting Operations

• Assist in coordinating daily planting schedules and field preparation activities.

• Support Crew Leaders in assigning tasks and monitoring crew productivity.

• Ensure planting specifications are followed, including seed depth, spacing, bed configuration, and crop standards.

• Monitor field conditions to support timely planting and proper execution.

• Assist in equipment setup and adjustments related to planting operations.

• Support transplanting, direct seeding, and other crop establishment activities as required.

• Fill in at the Crew Leader level when needed to maintain operational continuity.

B. Crew Leadership & Oversight

• Provide direction and hands-on support to field crews during planting activities.

• Reinforce safe work practices and proper equipment operation.

• Assist in training team members on planting procedures, tools, tractors, and implements.

• Monitor attendance and labor utilization.

• Support resolution of routine employee concerns and escalate complex matters appropriately.

C. Equipment & Field Readiness

• Inspect planting equipment prior to use to ensure proper function.

• Assist in coordinating minor repairs and communicating larger maintenance needs.

• Support material staging and distribution (seed, trays, tools, supplies).

• Maintain accurate tracking of planting materials and related production inputs.

D. Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate time and attendance documentation.

• Support compliance with company policies, food safety standards, and safety regulations.

• Ensure adherence to Worker Protection Standards and re-entry intervals when applicable.

• Promote DFF Core Values through accountability, teamwork, and leadership presence in the field.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Valid driver's license and insurable under company policy

• Demonstrated leadership and communication skills

• Ability to operate and train others on tractors and planting equipment

• Strong organizational and documentation skills

Preferred:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish)

• Basic technology skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must be available to work varying schedules, including early mornings, evenings, nights, weekends, and overtime depending on harvest needs. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to talk or hear. Employees must be able to lift up-to 50 pounds frequently. Employees will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, and bend extensively. Employees must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather conditions, including rain, cold, heat, and high winds. Employees must be able to work in temperatures that can range from 30 degrees Fahrenheit to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the time of employment. Work is performed based on weather temperatures, employees must be able to work in the day, evening, or nights. Employees will be exposed to dusty conditions, exposed to mud, and other natural elements. This work may entail exposure to plant pollen, insects and noxious plants. During the times when the fields and crops are treated with insect and/or disease control sprays, workers will need to abide by the Worker Protection Standards and re-entry times as required.