Farm Manager Trainee
Howe, Indiana
Salary Grade: $75,000/yr
Overview of Company: Lennard Ag Company is a family-owned, three-generations deep farming operation that’s been producing and delivering quality vegetables and grain crops since 1947. Specializing in potatoes, we grow over 14,000 acres in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, South Carolina, and North Carolina. We combine strong industry traditions with cutting-edge agricultural practices, advanced technology, and the latest management practices. Anchored by our strong history, Lennard Ag Company’s modern operations are complemented by their care for the land, their community, and the people with whom they work.
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, Indiana. 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 date 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. Th program is designed for individuals with strong leadership potential and 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:
• Candidates should demonstrate enthusiasm for agriculture, interest in professional growth, and commitment to Lennard Ag’s values of accountability, communication, and innovation.
Physical Requirement:
• Must be physically capable of performing outdoor, labor-intensive tasks including operating equipment, lifting, bending, and working extended hours during peak seasons.
Environmental Factor/Working Conditions:
• Work is primarily performed outdoors in varied weather conditions across multiple states (IN, OH, MI, SC, NC). The role requires 50%0-70% travel, relocation flexibility, and the ability to manage field operations. During February-July, semi-independent management of a 500-acre potato farm is required, including supervision of seasonal labor.
Supervision Received:
• Reports directly 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 the guidance of 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
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. Employees may be asked to perform other duties at the company’s sole discretion.
