PLEASE NOTE: We will not reply if your resume does not meet position requirements. Please understand your education and experience must match our job listings for you to be considered. You must be a U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Resident to be considered for any U.S. positions.

There is NO closing date on this position.  This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT Searching for Orchard Operations Manager

Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT is assisting a progressive ownership group in the startup and development of a new hazelnut orchard operation in Central Kentucky. This is a unique ground-floor opportunity for a highly motivated agricultural professional who wants to be involved in building and managing an operation from the ground up.

POSITION OVERVIEW

This role will serve as the on-site operational lead for a newly developing orchard operation. The Orchard Operations Manager will work directly with ownership and a remote consultant to establish infrastructure, develop the orchard, and manage all day-to-day operations. The individual hired will have significant decision-making responsibility and will play a key role in building the business from its earliest stages. This is not a traditional, established farm position. The successful candidate must be comfortable stepping into a start-up environment where systems, equipment, and facilities are still being developed.

RESPONSIBILITIES

·       Oversee daily operations of developing orchard

·       Assist with infrastructure planning and development

·       Coordinate installation of irrigation systems

·       Make recommendations and decisions on equipment purchases

·       Establish operational procedures and workflow

·       Hire, train, and supervise a small team (3-4 employees)

·       Manage planting, spraying, fertility, and harvest planning

·       Oversee payroll approvals and administrative functions

·       Work with vendors and establish supplier relationships

·       Track expenses and assist with budgeting decisions

·       Coordinate with ownership and consultant for strategic direction

·       Manage operation as a business unit with ownership mindset

This role will require both hands-on field work and management responsibilities.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

Employer prefers an individual who:

·       Has strong production agriculture background

·       Is confident making decisions independently

·       Can take direction and communicate remotely

·       Has leadership and management potential

·       Is adaptable and not set in rigid methods

·       Has interest in long-term orchard development

·       Is looking for advancement opportunity

·       Is willing to grow with the operation

Hazelnut or tree-crop experience is not required. Strong row-crop or diversified production agriculture experience preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS

·       Solid crop production background

·       Experience operating and managing farm equipment

·       Ability to lead and manage employees

·       Strong communication and organizational skills

·       Financial and operational decision-making ability

·       Self-starter with entrepreneurial mindset

·       Willingness to relocate to Central Kentucky

OPPORTUNITY

This is a rare chance to step into a leadership role at the start of a new agricultural venture. The Orchard Operations Manager will play a key role in building systems, infrastructure, and long-term success of the operation.

BENEFITS:

House

ALL INQUIRIES ARE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL. NO FEES TO APPLICANTS.

If you feel that you are not a candidate for this position, but know someone who is, we do offer a Referral Bonus if we place your referral into this position.

To apply please click on APPLY TO THIS POSITION