Ag Operation Team Lead


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FSLA Classification: Non-Exempt

PCLS: 70023

Salary Grade: G

Role Summary

The Ag Operation Team Lead position supports farm operations by coordinating daily work activities, mentoring a subordinate group, and performing hands-on agricultural tasks. This role ensures effective execution of farm work, equipment use, and animal or crop care, while collaborating with senior leadership to meet operational goals. 

Reporting and Supervisory Responsibilities

The Ag Operation Team Lead typically reports to an Ag Operation Manager or Ag Operation Team Lead SR and provides mentoring and supervision to a subordinate group.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This position is distinguished from the Ag Operation Team Lead SR by a narrower scope of responsibility, typically focused on a single location or area of the farm. While leadership is expected, strategic planning and multi-location oversight remain with senior positions. The Ag Operation Team Lead executes operational plans and ensures compliance with safety and farm procedures.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties

  • Supervise daily operations of assigned farm area, including overseeing staff and providing hands-on support.
  • Coordinate work assignments and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely.
  • Assist with the care and feeding of livestock and/or planting and harvesting of crops.
  • Communicate regularly with Agricultural Assistant SR and/or Manager to align work with research and teaching priorities.
  • Ensure equipment is used safely and maintained appropriately.
  • Perform minor repairs and maintenance on tools, equipment, and facilities.
  • Operate tractors, loaders, and other farming equipment as needed.
  • Maintain accurate records of activities, supplies, feed inventories, and maintenance work.
  • Support staff training in basic farm operations and safety protocols.
  • Respond to emergency issues with livestock or equipment during evenings/weekends as needed.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment and uphold all applicable regulations and policies.

Accountability

  • Reports directly to the Ag Operation Team Lead SR or Ag Operation Manager.
  • Ensures that assigned farm area or activities are conducted safely and efficiently.
  • Supports implementation of operational plans and objectives.

Authority

  • Assigns tasks to Agricultural Assistant SRs and Agricultural Assistants based on daily needs.
  • Trains and guides employees in daily operations and safety.
  • Escalates significate issues or resource needs to the Ag Operation Manager.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

  • Working knowledge of general agricultural practices including livestock and/or crop care.
  • Familiarity with safe equipment operation and routine maintenance.
  • Ability to supervise, coach, and train seasonal or hourly staff.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
    • Physical capability to:
    • Walk/stand for approximately 65% of the time.
    • Sit for approximately 20% of the time.
    • Lift up to 75 lbs. approximately 5% of the time.
    • Perform stooping, bending, and crouching approximately 10% of the time.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree and at least 1 years of agricultural experience with demonstrable equipment operation skills; or a minimum of 5 years of directly related experience or an equivalent combination of education and work 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.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Work takes place both indoors and outdoors, exposing employees to agricultural chemicals, machinery, dust, and variable weather conditions.
  • Requires physical strength, endurance, and manual dexterity for operating farm equipment and performing labor intensive tasks.
  • Requires exposure to livestock handling environments, requiring caution and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, bending, and prolonged standing.

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.