Forage Operations Manager
Innovative Livestock Services, LLC · ILS Farm Partnership - Great Bend, KS 67530
ILS 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 jobs@ilsbeef.com, apply online at , or apply in person at 551A SW 30 Rd. Great Bend, KS.
EOE