Forage Operations Manager

# Forage Operations ManagerILS Farm Partnership - Great Bend, KS 67530## Overview Position Type Full Time## DescriptionILS 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 , apply online at , or apply in person at 551A SW 30 Rd. Great Bend, KS.