Hiring: Retail Operations Manager – Smolak Farms

Retail Operations Manager (Farm Stand & Bakery)
Location: North Andover, MA
Reports to: General Manager
Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $63,000 – $73,000

About Smolak Farms

Located in North Andover, MA, Smolak Farms isn’t just a farm; it’s a destination. From our famous cider donuts to our fall harvest festivals, we welcome tens of thousands of visitors every year who come to connect with local agriculture. We are a fast-paced, dynamic environment where no two days are the same. We pride ourselves on blending 300 years of history with a high-energy, customer-focused retail experience.

Why You’ll Love This Job

You aren’t just managing a farm stand; you are stewarding a 300-year-old homestead into its next era. We are looking for an operational leader to serve as the “conductor” of the Smolak Farms retail experience.

This role is designed for a retail or hospitality professional who wants to join as a strategic partner. You will work directly with the Owner and General Manager to modernize operations, drive profitability, and shape the future of agritourism in the Merrimack Valley.

Core Responsibilities

1. Retail Operations & Merchandising

• Lead the daily opening/closing and visual merchandising of the Farm Stand, ensuring the store is “festival-ready” every morning.
• Manage inventory levels for high-volume weekends (1,000+ visitors), ensuring top-selling items remain in stock while minimizing perishability waste.
• Oversee the Bakery Operations (production scheduling, par levels, and efficiency) for our signature items like donuts and pies. Note: Baking experience is not required; managing the workflow is.

2. Team Leadership

• Recruit, train, and schedule a diverse seasonal staff of 15–40 team members.
• Foster a culture of “Agritourism Hospitality,” ensuring customers feel connected to the farm, not just the transaction.
• Build accountability through clear SOPs and mentorship.

3. Business Strategy & Financials

• Be a Partner: Sit down with ownership to analyze sales data, P&L reports, and labor costs.
• Modernize: Identify opportunities for tech upgrades (POS improvements), layout redesigns, and new revenue streams.
• Execute: Take ownership of the “Super Bowl” season (Labor Day through Halloween), driving execution during our highest volume months.

Who You Are

• The Experience: You have 3+ years of experience in Retail Management, Hospitality Management, or Food Service Operations.
• The Mindset: You possess an “Entrepreneurial Spirit.” You don’t just follow a checklist; you look for ways to improve the business.
• The Analyst: You are comfortable with numbers. You understand that labor costs and waste reduction are just as important as top-line sales.
• The Stamina: You are comfortable working in an active, indoor/outdoor farm environment and can lift up to 50 lbs. You are ready to lead from the front during weekends and holidays in peak season.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $63,000+ (Commensurate with experience).
• Performance Bonus: Eligible for an annual performance-based bonus of up to 15%.
• Upward Mobility: This role is designed for someone who wants to grow with the company. We provide substantial exposure to business ownership fundamentals, with a clear path toward higher-level responsibilities and management as the business grows.
• Flexible Paid Time Off: PTO to be used primarily during our off-peak seasons (Winter/Spring).
• Sick Leave: Comprehensive sick time in accordance with Massachusetts state law.
• Seasonal Schedule: Please note that due to the nature of our business, vacation time is restricted during our peak harvest season (September – October). We encourage our team to recharge during the quieter winter months.

Please submit your application by emailing your resume and cover letter to Mark@smolakfarms.com