Job Description
Job Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Crop Operations Manager oversees all field labor, packing operations, inventory control, for both organic and conventional crop production. This role leads H2A and with oversight, manages end-to-end packing and shipping workflow, and supports key crop production activities from land preparation through harvest. This role will assist with operational efficiency, product quality, compliance, and timely execution across all stages of production while contributing to long-term crop planning and continuous improvement.
JOB RESPONSIBILTIES
Strategic and tactical work for which this position is accountable:
Leadership & Workforce Management
- Manage, schedule, and supervise H2A employees on the field/packing teams to ensure efficient daily operations.
- Collaborate with the Director of Crop Operations to align labor and resource planning with ideal weather and crop conditions for timely task completion.
- Provide training, coaching, and performance feedback to staff on proper agricultural, harvesting, packing, and safety practices.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
Crop Production Oversight
- Manage and coordinate land preparation activities including tilling, cultivating, and related pre-planting functions.
- Oversee planting procedures and collaborate with Crops team members to ensure optimal planting timing and technique.
- Monitor weed control programs, crop health, and field conditions; communicate findings to Crops Technician.
- Maintain accurate crop production and field activity records.
Harvest, Packing & Inventory Management
- Work with the Director of Specialty Crops to assist with the planning and execution of harvesting operations, ensuring product quality standards are met.
- Oversee the full packing operation for organic and conventional crops, ensuring accuracy, quality, and throughput.
- Manage the inventory control process, including accurate receiving, tracking, reconciliation, and reporting through the inventory management system.
Logistics & Transportation Coordination
- Manage all shipping and receiving activities to ensure timely, efficient product movement and proper documentation.
- Manage truck loading schedules and oversee loading operations, ensuring proper reefer temperatures and compliance with customer requirements.
- Coordinate trucking activities during harvest to support timely product movement and maintain quality.
- Maintain a valid CDL-A license and provide transportation support as needed.
Strategic Planning & Continuous Improvement
- Contribute to crop rotation planning, seed selection, and seasonal crop strategies using field expertise and operational insight.
- Work with Director of Specialty Crops to develop and implement process improvements in field operations, packing workflow, inventory controls, and labor efficiency.
- Serve as a key partner in shaping operational planning, resource allocation, and long-term crop production improvement.
- Other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Capabilities and traits essential to perform satisfactorily
- Strong knowledge of crop production practices including tilling, planting, land preparation, and harvesting.
- Familiarity with a variety of crop types and regional agronomic practices.
- Experience managing packing operations, logistics, and inventory management systems.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
- Valid driver's license required; CDL-A license preferred (or willingness to obtain).
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Agricultural equipment operation; knowledge of crop technological tools. Must be familiar with troubleshooting equipment/process problems and proposing solutions.
- Strong communication, organizational skills, leadership, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work long hours during peak seasons and perform physical tasks outdoors.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Agriculture, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
- 3–5+ years of agricultural operations management or farm production leadership experience.
- Proven experience leading H2A or seasonal labor teams.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position requires the ability to perform physically demanding tasks in an outdoor agricultural setting. Employees must be able to:
- Stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, climb, and reach for extended periods.
- Lift, carry, push, and pull objects up to 50 pounds, occasionally more with assistance.
- Perform repetitive tasks such as planting, harvesting, and packing.
- Use hands and fingers to safely operate tools, equipment, and machinery.
- Work long hours in a fast-paced environment, especially during peak seasons, which may include weekends and holidays.
Employees will be exposed to:
- All types of weather, including extreme heat, cold, rain, wind, and dust.
- Loud machinery, farm vehicles, and various hand/power tools (PPE may be required).
- Dirt, mud, manure, fertilizers, pesticides, agricultural chemicals, dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
- A dynamic work environment with frequently changing tasks based on crop cycles and seasonal demands.
A reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job