What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Manager Trainee position at Lennard AG Co?
Number of Openings: 1 (Full-Time)
Overview of Position
Provides comprehensive training and hands-on experience in agricultural management, specifically in potato crop production and farm operations. This 2-year program is designed to develop future farm managers who will uphold Lennard Ag’s commitment to innovation, accountability, and high-quality production across multi-state operations.
Position is based in Howe, IN.
Requires 50%–70% travel across company locations, primarily Tarboro, North Carolina. Must be willing to relocate.
Summary of Duties
Participate in a structured program covering crop production, operations, labor management, and business systems.
Oversee semi-independent management of a 500-acre potato farm from February–July annually, including planting, irrigation, and harvest.
Supervise seasonal labor, providing training, direction, and performance oversight.
Operate and maintain pivot irrigation systems, ensuring efficient water use and crop health.
Collaborate with Regional Operations Manager on budgeting, logistics, quality control, and data reporting.
Travel 50%–70% across multi-state operations (Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina).
Engage in daily communication with supervisors for mentorship, guidance, and progress reviews.
Ensure compliance with safety, labor, and environmental regulations in all farming activities.
Work Experience Requirement
No prior farm management experience is required.
Familiarity with agriculture, pivot irrigation systems, or farm labor supervision is preferred.
Program is designed for individuals with strong leadership potential and a willingness to learn.
Education Requirement
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Business, or related field preferred.
Equivalent experience will be considered.
Skill Set Requirement
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to manage seasonal labor
Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities
Effective communication skills for collaboration with supervisors and team members
Mechanical aptitude with ability to learn farm equipment operation
Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in field environments
Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) preferred
Motivations / Interests
Enthusiasm for agriculture
Interest in professional growth
Commitment to Lennard Ag’s values of accountability, communication, and innovation
Physical Requirements
Must be physically capable of performing outdoor, labor-intensive tasks
Includes operating equipment, lifting, bending, and working extended hours during peak seasons
Environmental Factors / Working Conditions
Work is primarily performed outdoors in varied weather conditions across multiple states (IN, OH, MI, SC, NC)
Role requires 50%–70% travel, relocation flexibility, and the ability to manage field operations
February–July: semi-independent management of a 500-acre potato farm, including supervision of seasonal labor
Supervision Received
Reports directly to Regional Farm Operations Manager.
Supervisory Responsibility
Responsible for supervising seasonal laborers during the February–July farm management cycle.
Quality Standards
Expected to follow Lennard Ag’s high standards for crop quality, safety compliance, and Global G.A.P. best practices.
Financial Responsibility
Assists with monitoring operational budgets, tracking production data, and ensuring alignment with financial goals under guidance from the Regional Operations Manager.
Miscellaneous
This program provides structured mentorship and career progression opportunities within Lennard Ag. Successful completion prepares candidates for Farm Manager or other advanced roles.
Disclaimer
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Employee may be asked to perform other duties at the company’s sole discretion.