Crop Operations Manager

AgHires Jobs • Full-time • Ellington, Connecticut, United States • 2w ago

Oakridge Dairy is seeking an experienced Crops Operations Manager to lead all aspects of crop production and forage management for their dairy operation in Ellington, CT. This hands-on leadership role oversees planning, planting, nutrient management, harvest, storage, and compliance - ensuring the production of high-quality feed crops including corn silage, haylage, soybeans, and other forage and grain crops.

About Us:
Oakridge Dairy is a progressive, majority family-owned dairy operation based in Ellington, Connecticut, dedicated to producing high-quality milk through strong herd management, advanced crop production practices, and a team-first culture. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement, Oakridge Dairy operates with a forward-thinking mindset-investing in people, land stewardship, and modern agricultural practices to support both the herd and the community. The crops division plays a critical role in producing high-quality corn silage, haylage, soybeans, and forage crops that fuel herd performance and long-term farm sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead all crop production operations of corn silage, haylage, soybeans, and forage crops, including planting, spraying, harvesting, and forage pile management.
Oversee crop planning, rotations, soil health, nutrient management programs, and feed quality optimization.
Timely procurement of seed, fertilizer, and other crop inputs.
Oversee manure handling, application, and dragline operations while ensuring CAFO and CNMP compliance.
Operate and oversee heavy farm machinery and semi-trucks, enforcing safety protocols.
Coordinate preventative maintenance and repairs on all Oakridge-owned facilities and equipment.
Lead and develop the crops team: managing schedules, assigning task, providing training, and giving performance feedback.
Oversee operational expenses and invoice approvals while tracking production costs, analyzing metrics, and implementing cost-reduction strategies.
Maintain up-to-date CAFO and landowner documentation and keep detailed operational records.
Maintain Oakridge Dairy’s positive community reputation though community support and relationships.

Qualifications:

Strong agricultural background with experience in agronomy, crop production, or dairy crop operations.
Proven experience growing corn, soybeans, hay, and forage crops.
Knowledge of manure management and nutrient application systems.
Experience operating heavy farm equipment and trucks.
Comfortable working hands-on in the field and around livestock.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
CDL is a plus.

What We Offer: