Operations Lead

CSS Farms is a multi-state agricultural business with a mission of Growing Great Together. We achieve our vision by leading the way in stewardship and solutions for every field, every load, every day. At CSS Farms we take great pride in doing the job right and believe our best work is achieved when we work together. Farming is our way of life, we have a deep passion for the land, our families, and our communities. Our legacy is rooted in solving hard problems and tackling new business ventures.

About the Role

The Operations Lead works with the oversight of the Nebraska leadership and operations teams to support our North Platte seed farm. This role reports directly to the Farm Manager and partners closely with irrigation, shipping, and administrative teams to ensure efficient and productive farm operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and leadership for all potato production activities across the farm.
• Work closely with operations including ground preparation, planting, irrigation, and ground sprayer activities.
• Coordinate integration of harvest activities with the North Platte team.
• Perform duties aligned with the Agronomy Technician role and responsibilities.
• Maintain all farm safety programs including training, enforcement, and documentation.
• Participate in budgeting and business planning processes.
• Coordinate purchasing of supplies, equipment, and production inputs.
• Assist with and support Regenerative Agriculture certification efforts.
• Support storage operations.
• Provide support to grazing subtenants as needed.
• Support operation and maintenance of self-propelled sprayers.
• Coordinate with the Senior Agronomist to support irrigation scheduling, fertilizer applications, and chemical applications.
• Assist in managing chemical budgets and maintaining accurate inventory records.
• Support additional agronomy-related tasks as needed.
• Maintain and develop positive relationships with landlords, customers, and community partners.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with customers, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Serve as a positive representative of CSS Farms within the local community and agricultural network.

Physical Demands

• Walking and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Operating farm equipment, tools, and vehicles as needed.
• Driving between farm locations to support operations.
• Standing for extended periods of time and working on uneven terrain.
• Lifting and handling materials as required for farm operations.

Requirements

• A Nebraska private applicator’s license or the ability to obtain one.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license and successfully pass vehicle insurance verification.
• Demonstrated ability to be confident, articulate, and professional when communicating with customers, vendors, and landowners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in an agriculture-related field.
• 2+ years of experience managing agricultural programs and personnel.
• 2+ years of potato agronomy experience.
• Demonstrated strong work ethic, leadership ability, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated financial management and budgeting experience.
• Ability to adapt to changing conditions and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficiency with Windows-based applications (Excel, Access, PowerPoint) and general software systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to train and support operational personnel.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills with experience leading teams.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
• Ability to comprehensively read, write, and communicate in English across all organizational levels.

Benefits

• Competitive pay that recognizes your experience, skills, and contributions.
• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA & HSA) to help manage eligible healthcare expenses.
• 401(k) with company match to help you invest in your future.
• Company-provided life insurance and other supplemental benefits for added peace of mind.
• Paid time off so you can rest, recharge, and spend time with the people who matter most.

Agriculture is more than what we do—it's who we are. At CSS Farms, you'll have the opportunity to build a rewarding career while helping grow food, care for the land, and support the future of farming. We're proud of our family-oriented culture, our commitment to doing things the right way, and the opportunities we provide our employees to learn, advance, and make a lasting impact.