What is an orchard manager and how to become one

Key steps to become an orchard manager

1. Explore orchard manager education requirements

   Most common orchard manager degrees

   Bachelor's

   59.5 %

   Associate

   21.4 %

   High School Diploma

   7.1 %

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2. Start to develop specific orchard manager skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Harvest	57.16%
   Mowing	26.91%
   Irrigation Systems	15.94%

3. Complete relevant orchard manager training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New orchard managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an orchard manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real orchard manager resumes.

4. Research orchard manager duties and responsibilities

   • Manage CSA program and wholesale accounts and maintain working relationships with community organizations and retailers.
   • Coordinate production, harvest, and sales
   • Wine shop duties such as daily record keeping, inventory, weekly payroll, and sales/marketing plans.
   • Garden and nursery manager/sales specialist, possessing a keen understanding of consumer trends and experience in product merchandising.

5. Apply for orchard manager jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for an orchard manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams