Farm Operations Manager

Kirkwood Community College•Cedar Rapids, IA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Kirkwood Community College is seeking a Farm Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operation of its farm learning laboratory and student employees. The laboratory includes approximately 600 acres of corn, soybean, and pasture; a 300-head beef feedlot and cow/calf herd; a 50-sow farrow-to-finish operation; and a veterinary technician large-animal skills lab. The role plans, organizes, and supports the daily operation of agricultural enterprises in collaboration with program faculty, staff, and administration. Faculty provide direction for their respective enterprises, while this position helps carry out daily operations. The manager also works with Facilities to maintain a 130-acre off-site farm property. The successful candidate will bring practical agricultural production experience, strong equipment operation and maintenance skills, a collaborative approach, and the ability to work independently in a hands-on environment. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with seasonal changes; farm operations may also require evening and weekend availability.

Requirements

Associate degree in an agriculture-related field and 3 years of agriculture production or management experience in crop and livestock production, or a high school diploma and 7 years of agriculture production or management experience in crop and livestock production.
Valid driver's license and participation in continuous Motor Vehicle Record monitoring.
Ability to earn a Commercial Driver’s License and Iowa Pesticide Applicators License within one year.
Practical agricultural production experience.
Strong equipment operation and maintenance skills.
Ability to collaborate positively and work independently in a hands-on environment.
Ability to work in a cross-functional, team-based environment; collaborate in goal setting and problem solving; and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to represent the college positively to students, clients, suppliers, and the community.
Ability to take responsibility, address problems effectively, and exercise independent judgment.
Ability to work effectively independently and in a team-based decision-making role.
Ability to manage frequent interruptions, multiple concurrent projects, and tight timelines.
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Ability to welcome and support people of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in an agriculture-related field.
Commercial Driver’s License.
Iowa Pesticide Applicators License.

Responsibilities

Maintain regular and consistent attendance.
Be available for seasonal farm schedules, including weekends as needed.
Carry out day-to-day farm operations, including crop production, livestock care, and other seasonal activities.
Monitor budgets, financial plans, and records, and use farm resources responsibly.
Assist with preparing and carrying out annual crop and livestock management plans.
Assist with developing and carrying out an enterprise commodity marketing plan.
Ensure governmental program compliance and documentation in collaboration with faculty and staff.
Plan and staff daily work schedules, including weekday and weekend coverage.
Maintain equipment inventory and equipment maintenance.
Collaborate with faculty, administrators, students, and industry partners to support farm operations and hands-on learning activities.
Communicate with neighbors, city officials, and other stakeholders about farm activities.
Supervise non-faculty staff.
Promote safety in the use, condition, and operation of equipment, livestock, facilities, and processes.
Work with Facilities and appropriate personnel to operate and maintain the off-site farm property.
Perform other related duties as assigned.