Operations Manager - Native Seed Production

About the role

The Native Seed Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day execution of seed production and processing operations at our Glyndon, MN seed production farm. This role requires strong ownership of both planning and execution, with the ability to step in and complete work directly while also setting direction and priorities for the operation.

About Us

MNL is a full-service ecological restoration company dedicated to Healing the Earth. Our services include native seed and plant production, shoreline and wetland restoration, prescribed burns, conservation grazing, vegetation management, and ecological consulting. We also support solar and infrastructure projects with pollinator-friendly practices and land stewardship expertise.

Responsibilities

• Lead and actively participate in seed production and processing operations from planting through harvest and cleaning.
• Translate seasonal production plans into clear daily and weekly work plans for field and processing teams.
• Schedule and align labor and equipment to keep planting, harvest, and processing on track to meet output goals & timelines. Execute work directly when needed to maintain progress and efficiency.
• Track progress against timelines and adjust plans quickly to address delays or bottlenecks.
• Partner with the Seed Agronomist to execute planting, crop management, and harvest activities.
• Oversee seed drying, cleaning, conditioning, and storage operations.
• Ensure and maintain consistency and quality across both field production and processing workflows.
• Lead, support, and develop operational staff (farm equipment operator, seed technicians, and seasonal labor) by setting clear expectations around performance, safety, and quality.
• Oversee equipment usage, maintenance planning, and operational readiness.
• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement improvements to workflows, equipment use, and facility efficiency.
• Maintain safe, organized, and effective work environments across field and processing operations.
• Communicate regularly with agronomy and internal teams on progress, priorities, and challenges.
• Ensure production activities stay on schedule and address delays or gaps proactively.
• Support day-to-day field and processing work alongside the team, including operating farm equipment to support planting, spraying, harvesting, and other field activities.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience leading agricultural production, seed operations, or similar field-based operations
• Ability to operate independently and make day-to-day decisions that keep production moving.
• Ability to lead and develop skilled operational teams.
• Strong planning and coordination skills across seasonal and daily work.
• Clear communication and ability to set direction and expectations.
• Working knowledge of agricultural production and/or seed processing operations.
• Experience operating agricultural equipment (tractors, sprayers, combines, etc.)
• Strong problem-solving mindset with a focus on efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Strong sense of ownership with the ability to drive work forward and hold teams accountable to timelines.
• Comfort working with equipment, facilities, and operational systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and operational or ERP systems.

Physical Requirements

This role requires regular work in both field and processing environments, including exposure to weather, dust, noise, and agricultural conditions. Ability to stand, walk, and work on uneven terrain for extended periods is required. Occasional lifting of materials up to 50 lbs. and operation around agricultural equipment is expected.

Pay

The pay range for this role is: 30 - 34 USD per hour (Bluestem)

Job Openings

Glyndon, MN