Operational Lead – Ag Retail, Application & Farm Operations
Carlson Ag Aviation & Carlson Farms
Location: West-Central Minnesota (Relocation Opportunity)
Compensation: Very competitive for the right candidate
Position Overview
Carlson Ag is seeking an experienced, highly capable Operational Lead to oversee and execute operations across Carlson Ag Aviation (ag retail & application support) and Carlson Farms.
While this role spans two entities, the responsibilities align extremely well. The ag retail / application side and the farm side are typically busiest at different times of the year, creating a balanced and sustainable operational rhythm.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who takes pride in running clean, efficient, well-organized operations — and who wants a long-term opportunity with a growing agricultural business.
Key Responsibilities
Ag Retail & Application Operations
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Serve as Lead Ground Applicator
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Support commercial application operations (ground-based)
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Act as Lead Aircraft Loader for aviation support operations
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Train and supervise seasonal aircraft loaders
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Assist with tendering, chemical handling, and warehouse operations
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Maintain accurate, safe, and efficient handling of products and equipment
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Uphold all safety, environmental, and operational standards
Note: Aerial application experience is not required. Commercial ground application experience is preferred. This role does not include dispatching, scheduling, or sales.
Farm Operations (Carlson Farms)
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Hands-on execution of all farm activities, including:
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Planting
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Spraying
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Harvesting
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Tendering and trucking
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Operate tractors, sprayers, trucks, and support equipment
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Train and oversee seasonal harvest employees, including truck drivers
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Experience with corn and sugar beet production strongly preferred
Shop, Warehouse & Equipment Management
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Take ownership of organization and cleanliness in:
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Farm shop
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Warehouse
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Equipment storage areas
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Maintain a well-organized, efficient work environment
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Operate, inspect, and maintain all equipment
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Perform diagnostics, repairs, and preventative maintenance
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Ensure equipment is properly serviced and ready ahead of peak seasons
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Share Carlson Ag’s philosophy of investing in equipment care and avoiding shortcuts except when economics truly dictate otherwise
Leadership & Execution
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Lead by example with a strong work ethic and attention to detail
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Train seasonal staff clearly and safely
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Communicate effectively with ownership and team members
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Solve problems independently and efficiently
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Maintain professionalism, accountability, and pride in operations
Qualifications & Experience
Required
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Strong agricultural background with extensive hands-on experience
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Proven experience in commercial ground application
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Broad experience across full farm operations
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Strong mechanical aptitude and maintenance experience
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Demonstrated ability to keep shops, warehouses, and operations organized
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Experience training and leading seasonal employees
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Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
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Willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons
Preferred
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Experience supporting aviation or aerial application operations (ground support)
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Experience with corn and sugar beets
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Prior operational leadership or lead-hand experience
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Familiarity with Upper Midwest ag practices
Why This Role Works
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The ag retail/application side and farm operations do not peak at the same time
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Clear operational focus — no sales, dispatch, or scheduling
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High level of trust, autonomy, and responsibility
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Opportunity to help shape systems, organization, and workflow
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Long-term growth potential as Carlson Ag continues to expand
Compensation & Opportunity
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Very competitive compensation package for the right candidate
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Relocation assistance considered
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Long-term career opportunity with increasing responsibility
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A role designed for someone who wants to build something, not just run a season
Who This Role Is For
This role is ideal for someone who:
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Is a top-tier operator with strong ag retail and farm experience
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Takes pride in clean, organized shops, warehouses and equipment
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Believes in maintaining equipment the right way
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Enjoys training and leading others
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Wants a long-term, high-responsibility role with growth upside