Seed Plant Manager
Millborn · Sherman, SD · 1 mo ago
Full-time
About the role
Millborn Seeds is seeking a Seed Plant Manager to lead day‑to‑day operations at our Sherman, SD seed cleaning, storage, & packaging facility. This player‑coach role involves working alongside the team while owning site leadership, execution, and accountability. The Plant Manager is the primary lead for the facility, responsible for production execution, troubleshooting, team leadership, quality, safety, and continuous improvement, with a focus on maximizing plant throughput and sellable pounds.
Responsibilities
- Production & Operations (Hands‑On)
- Execute the daily and weekly processing schedule to meet timing and quality expectations.
- Operate and oversee seed cleaning equipment and processes.
- Perform basic machine troubleshooting and coordinate maintenance needs.
- Ensure cleaning processes meet quality and specification requirements.
- Maximize sellable pounds for each lot/run of product being processed.
- Package cleaned products accurately and efficiently.
- Prepare outbound shipments and ensure readiness for scheduled pickups.
- Load and unload bulk seed shipments in a safe and timely manner.
- Maintain equipment readiness and a clean, organized, safe facility.
- Leadership & Site Ownership
- Lead and support a small on‑site team, setting expectations and pace for daily execution.
- Act as the main point of accountability for the Sherman facility.
- Troubleshoot operational issues and make real‑time decisions to keep production moving.
- Prepare and organize bin and floor placement to avoid production inhibition.
- Coach and train team members on equipment, processes, quality, and safety.
- Create a positive, high‑accountability work environment aligned with Millborn’s cultural values.
- Communicate effectively with operations leadership and supporting teams.
- Continuous Improvement & Standard Work
- Own the daily and weekly work schedule and align staffing to workload and throughput goals.
- Develop processes or workflows that allow the team to recognize quality concerns timely.
- Take responsibility for all functions, needs, and operational improvements over the site.
- Contribute to ongoing process optimization and efficiency improvements.
- Identify recurring issues and drive root‑cause solutions.
- Anticipate operational needs to prevent bottlenecks.
Requirements
- Prior experience in seed cleaning, handling, agriculture, or manufacturing operations.
- Willingness to work long hours as needed during peak seasons.
- Experience working in and around agricultural equipment.
- Ability to thrive under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
- Positive mindset through challenging workload.
- Team‑player attitude with humility, hunger, and intelligence.
- Strong multitasking ability without sacrificing quality.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to lift 60 lb.
- Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Requirements
- Forklift experience.
- Basic experience in agricultural equipment repairs/mechanics (preferred but not required).
- Experience leading or training others (formal title not required).
Success Indicators
- The facility runs reliably, safely, and efficiently.
- Work is completed without bottlenecks or idle time.
- Production schedules are met with consistent quality.
- Quality checks are consistent and enforced.
- Issues are addressed quickly, not passed along.
- The team is supported, clear on expectations, and held accountable.
- The site reflects ownership — organized, clean, and well‑run.