Forage Operations Manager

ILS Farms is seeking an experienced, dependable Forage Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of forage production; land preparation/management, harvesting, inventory management, equipment, and employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage production of alfalfa, teff grass, millet, and other forage crops
• Coordinate planting, pesticide application, fertilizer application, irrigation, and harvest schedules with the Agronomy Manager
• Oversee swathing, raking, baling, hauling, stacking, and storage
• Properly utilize all technologies provided to maximize performance and productivity
• Maintain accurate hay inventory and production records
• Assist with hay sampling and forage-quality testing

• Operate and oversee tractors, swathers, rakes, balers, loaders, and related equipment
• Perform daily inspections, routine maintenance, adjustments, and basic repairs
• Troubleshoot equipment problems and coordinate major repairs with local dealerships when needed

• Supervise farm employees and seasonal hay crews
• Assign daily work, train employees, and enforce safe operating practices
• Communicate regularly with the Director of Farm Operations and Agronomy Manager regarding crops, harvest, equipment, labor, and production issues

Qualifications

Required:

• 5+ years of commercial farming or hay-production experience
• Farm management or crew supervision experience
• Experience growing and harvesting alfalfa, grass hay, or similar crops
• Ability to operate tractors, balers, rakes, loaders, and related equipment
• Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work flexible and extended hours during harvest
• Valid driver's license
• Strong work ethic and ability to work independently

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an experienced hay producer who takes ownership of their work and understands that high-quality hay depends on timing, attention to detail, equipment condition, and good decision-making.

We are looking for someone who is:

• Dependable, accountable, and honest
• Mechanically capable and detail-oriented
• Experienced in managing people
• Focused on hay quality, efficiency, and profitability
• Careful with equipment and farm resources
• Willing to work extended hours when weather and crop conditions require it

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Professional development and career growth opportunities

Qualified candidates must be able to pass post-offer employment testing.

Apply Today:
Submit your resume to jobs@ilsbeef.com, apply online at , or apply in person at 551A SW 30 Rd. Great Bend, KS.

EOE