Lake Area Tech Ag Instructor – Ag Production and Assistant Farm Manager

POSITION SUMMARY:
Lake Area Technical College is seeking a dedicated and experienced Agriculture Instructor specializing in Ag Production to join our faculty. This full-time position includes both instructional responsibilities and service as the Assistant Farm Manager, working collaboratively with the Farm Manager to support the operation, maintenance, and advancement of the college farm.

This role will involve teaching students in agricultural production, including crop and livestock management, farming systems, and sustainable agricultural practices, while also integrating real-world, hands-on learning experiences through active participation in farm operations. The successful candidate will help ensure the farm serves as a functional, innovative, and student-centered learning laboratory aligned with industry standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Instructional Duties:
• Develop and teach courses in agricultural production, including but not limited to crop and livestock management, soil science, irrigation systems, and sustainable farming practices.
• Provide online and hands-on instruction in both classroom and laboratory settings, incorporating modern agricultural technology and equipment.
• Prepare course materials, syllabi, and assessments aligned with Lake Area Technical College curriculum standards.
• Assess and evaluate student performance in accordance with department policies.
• Advise students on academic progress, career pathways, internships, and job placement.
• Stay current with industry trends and integrate best practices into instruction.
• Collaborate with agriculture faculty and other programs to enhance cross-disciplinary learning.

Assistant Farm Manager Duties:
• Work in partnership with the Farm Manager to support daily operations of the college farm, including crop production, livestock care, and facility maintenance.
• Assist in planning, implementing, and evaluating crop plans, livestock systems, and farm management strategies.
• Support the integration of precision agriculture technologies and data-driven decision-making into farm operations.
• Help coordinate seasonal activities such as planting, harvesting, feeding, breeding, and maintenance schedules.
• Assist in supervising student involvement in farm activities to ensure safe, educational, and productive experiences.
• Maintain farm records, including production data, inputs, and operational logs.
• Ensure proper maintenance and safe operation of farm equipment and facilities.
• Collaborate with the Farm Manager to align farm operations with instructional goals and program outcomes.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the farm as a hands-on learning environment.
• Participate in departmental meetings, faculty committees, and professional development opportunities.
• Foster relationships with agricultural businesses and industry partners to enhance student opportunities.
• Support recruitment, retention, and outreach efforts for the agriculture program.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• Associate’s degree or higher in Agriculture, Agricultural Education, Agronomy, Animal Science, or a related field a plus.
• Minimum of three years of industry experience in agricultural production (crop and/or livestock).
• Strong understanding of modern agricultural technologies, including precision agriculture systems.
• Teaching or extensive training experience a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to manage or assist with farm operations is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage students in both classroom and experiential learning environments.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and industry partners.
• Experience with agricultural machinery, equipment operation, and maintenance.
• Experience in curriculum development and student assessment is beneficial.
• Ability to mentor and advise students pursuing agricultural careers.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and safely operate agricultural equipment.

REPORTS TO:
Department Supervisor, Dean of Academics, Vice President

SALARY:
$52,725.00 - $89,632.00

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
210-day contract. Salary and benefits are set by the Watertown Board of Education in accordance with the state postsecondary technical instructor salary formula.

Competitive benefits package including health, dental, generous leave policy, and South Dakota Retirement System eligibility through the Watertown School District.

Salary : $52,725 - $89,632