Ag Operation Manager


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FSLA Classification: Exempt

PCLS: 30256

Salary Grade: I

Role Summary

The Ag Operation Manager is responsible for managing and coordinating the operations of a Utah Agricultural Experiment Station (UAES) farm facility, including crop and livestock production systems. This role provides leadership for day-to-day farm operations by maintaining a productive and compliant farm environment. The position requires direct supervision of farm staff, resource, budget management, and maintaining compliance with university and regulatory standards. The manager must be available to work flexible hours, particularly during peak agricultural seasons such as planting, harvesting, and livestock production events.

Responsibilities & Essential Duties

  • Supervise and manage crop and/or livestock production to ensure high-quality outputs.
  • Oversee the care and health of animals and manage crop systems to meet production and research needs.
  • Operate and maintain farm equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Set up and maintain irrigation and spraying programs.
  • Ensure proper handling and storage of feed, chemicals, fertilizers, and related production materials.
  • Maintain farm buildings, fencing, and surrounding grounds.
  • Supervise harvesting and support the marketing of products.
  • Identify potential markets, negotiate transactions, and maintain sales records.
  • Maintain records of crop production, herd health, and inventory.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.
  • Supervise full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees.
  • Provide training in safety procedures, equipment operation, and job expectations.
  • Foster a collaborative and safe working environment.
  • Ensure proper scheduling, delegation, and performance oversight.
  • Work with faculty and researchers to coordinate land use, livestock care, and other needs related to ongoing research projects.
  • Provide timely feedback and logistical support for experiments and field studies.
  • Maintain accurate compliance documentation and support research safety protocols.
  • Schedule and perform regular equipment maintenance and repairs.
  • Develop and maintain preventative maintenance schedules.
  • Coordinate procurement of supplies and services in line with university policies.
  • Track budgets and monitor operational costs related to farm management.
  • Perform other duties as needed to support farm and research objectives.

Accountability

  • Reports directly to the Department Head or Director.
  • Responsible for operations, safety, compliance, and production activities.
  • Ensures accurate documentation and regulatory compliance for production.

Authority

  • Supervises and directs all farm employees (full-time and seasonal).
  • Makes operational and budgetary decisions in collaboration with the Department Head.
  • Procures equipment and supplies following institutional guidelines.
  • Implements and enforces all safety and operational protocols.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

  • Comprehensive knowledge of livestock and/or crop production practices.
  • Proficiency in operating, repairing, and maintaining agricultural equipment.
  • Familiarity with irrigation, chemical application, and environmental management.
  • Experience in budgeting, purchasing, and resource allocation.
  • Knowledge of state and federal agricultural and environmental regulations.
  • Strong leadership and supervisory skills.
  • Ability to collaborate with researchers, faculty, vendors, and external partners.
  • Effective planning, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
  • Ability to adapt to weather changes and operational demands.
  • Capable of maintaining detailed records and ensuring compliance with research protocols.
  • Ability to work extended hours during peak farming seasons.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of relevant agricultural production experience with demonstrable equipment operation skills; or a minimum of 9 years of directly related experience or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
    • Prior supervisory experience.
  • Licensing & Certifications:
    • Valid Utah Driver’s License.
    • Ability to obtain a Class A CDL within 60 days of employment.
    • Pesticide applicator certification preferred.
  • Schedule Requirements:
    • Must be available for evening and weekend work as needed, particularly during peak farming seasons.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience using tablets, smartphones, and GPS-based agricultural systems.
  • Background in marketing agricultural products and negotiating sales contracts.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Employees work both outdoors and indoors and are exposed to agricultural chemicals, waste, noise, and dusty environments.
  • Employees will frequently bend, stoop, and kneel, along with standing and walking for extended periods.
  • Physical demands necessitate manual dexterity, visual acuity, focus, caution, and a strong level of fitness and endurance.
  • Requires the ability to lift up to 75 lbs. occasionally.

Disclaimer

This position description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the position.