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 - Central Kentucky

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:

• Will have commercial Orchard experience
• 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 ideal, but tree-crop experience needed

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.

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