Overview

A farm manager is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, controlling and evaluating the operations and functions of farm. They will grow crops, raise and breed livestock and market farm products. Farm managers will also perform administrative functions like preparing budgets, purchasing supplies and maintaining relationships with vendors and clients.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Manage the overall operations of a farm or ranch
• Coordinate schedules and decide on the work activities of employees
• Organize and coordinate planting, cultivating and crop harvesting activities
• Hire and manage farm personnel
• Assess problems and recommend solutions for the farm
• Understand business processes, like using accounting software
• Determine the amount and kinds of crops to be grown and livestock to be raised
• Develop and build relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Monitor the quality and quantity of crops and maintain animal health
• Develop and maintain financial production records
• Track and document farm practices of the operation
• Purchase farm machinery, livestock, seed, feed and other supplies
• Ensure that farming operations are sustainable
• Be responsible for employee compliance with health and safety regulations
• Manage the regular maintenance and repair on facility equipment
• Perform farming duties when required

What education and training is required?

Typically, extensive farming experience obtained from working on a specialized crop or with livestock is usually required. However, an associate or bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agricultural business, animal science, plant science, or a related field may be required.

To pursue a career as an Farm Operations / Production Manager:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, plant science, agricultural mechanics, animal science, biology, earth science, business, mathematics and personal finance.

Where can I work?

Farm managers are employed by farm owners as well as large farming companies. They can also be self-employed and work on their own farms.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• National Farmers Organization
• Young Farmers and Ranchers Organization
• American Farm Bureau Federation
• American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers
• Associations specific to the crop grown or type of livestock raised