Forage Operations Manager

Innovative Livestock Services, LLC•Great Bend, KS

4d•Onsite

About The Position

ILS Farms is seeking an experienced, dependable Forage Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of forage production, including land preparation/management, harvesting, inventory management, equipment, and employees. This role is crucial for ensuring the successful production of high-quality forage crops.

Requirements

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.

Nice To Haves

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.
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.

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.