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Farm Manager Jobs in Mattoon, IL (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Technician

Paris, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

Sow Farm Manager Christensen Farms is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy to select the most qualified person for each position in the organization. No employee of CF will discriminate ...

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Farm Manager information

See Mattoon, IL salary details

$29.1K

$55.7K

$114.1K

How much do farm manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for farm manager in Mattoon, IL is $55,689.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a farm manager do?

A Farm Manager oversees the daily operations of a farm, ensuring that crops or livestock are produced efficiently and profitably. Their responsibilities include planning planting and harvesting schedules, managing staff, maintaining equipment, and monitoring budgets. They also ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, as well as implementing new technologies or methods to improve productivity. Successful Farm Managers must have strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a farm manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Farm Manager, you need expertise in agricultural science, crop or livestock management, and business operations, often supported by a degree in agriculture or related experience. Familiarity with farm management software, machinery operation, and compliance with safety and environmental regulations is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help in managing teams and adapting to changing conditions. These skills ensure efficient farm operations, maximize productivity, and support sustainable agricultural practices.

How does a farm manager typically balance hands-on fieldwork with administrative responsibilities?

Farm Managers often juggle both practical and managerial duties. In a typical week, you may spend mornings supervising planting or harvesting activities alongside workers, while afternoons are dedicated to planning crop rotations, managing budgets, and coordinating with suppliers. Effective time management and delegation are crucial, as the role requires you to stay informed about both the operational and business sides of the farm. Balancing these responsibilities ensures smooth operations and supports long-term farm profitability.

What is the difference between Farm Manager vs Agricultural Technician?

AspectFarm ManagerAgricultural Technician
CredentialsExperience in farming, possibly a degree in agriculture or related fieldDegree or certification in agriculture, agronomy, or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees farm operations, manages staff, and plans crop/livestock activitiesConducts field inspections, experiments, and assists with crop or soil analysis
Employer & Industry UsageFarms, agricultural companies, cooperativesResearch institutions, government agencies, agricultural service providers

While both roles involve agriculture, a Farm Manager oversees overall farm operations and staff, focusing on management and planning. An Agricultural Technician supports fieldwork, conducts research, and assists with technical tasks. The roles complement each other but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do I become a farm manager?

To become a farm manager, individuals typically gain experience through working on farms or in agricultural roles, often starting as farm workers or assistants. Earning relevant education such as a degree in agriculture, farm management, or a related field can be beneficial, along with developing skills in crop and livestock management, equipment operation, and business planning. Certifications in areas like pesticide application or safety may also enhance qualifications.

How much do farm managers make in the US?

Farm managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $45,000 to over $110,000 depending on experience, farm size, and location. Those managing large operations or with specialized skills can earn higher wages, and certifications in agricultural management can enhance earning potential.

Is farm management a stressful job?

Farm management can be stressful due to factors such as weather variability, financial pressures, and the physical demands of overseeing daily operations. Managers often work long hours, especially during planting and harvest seasons, and must handle equipment, labor, and crop or livestock health. Effective planning, problem-solving skills, and resilience are important for managing stress in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Farm jobs in Mattoon, IL?

The most popular types of Farm jobs in Mattoon, IL are:

What cities near Mattoon, IL are hiring for Farm Manager jobs?

Cities near Mattoon, IL with the most Farm Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Farm Manager job openings in Mattoon, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,689 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Animal Care Technician - Kansas, IL

Christensen Farms

Paris, IL โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Christensen Farms is offering a Sign-On & Retention Bonus of $2,500 for all eligible newly-hired Animal Care Technicians.

Position Overview:

We're looking for a dedicated Animal Care Technician to join our team, supporting both the Farrowing and Breeding departments. This hands-on role is essential to the daily care of our animals and overall barn operations, ensuring the health, comfort, and well-being of our swine herd. The ideal candidate is reliable, hardworking, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, physical environment. A passion for animal welfare, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to biosecurity and safety are key. If you're seeking a meaningful, long-term career in livestock production with an industry leader, this is a great place to start. Join our team!

What You Will Do:

  • Provide feed and water to the animals daily to maintain consistent health and nutrition
  • Heat checking/Breed sows in heat per daily schedule, and perform gilt heat induction following established protocols
  • Process piglets by castrating, tail docking, and administering iron/antibiotics
  • Assist with farrowing with litter care, and ensuring piglet warmth
  • Monitor sows and litters daily to identify health issues, provide treatments, and support animal well-being
  • Maintain sanitation through cleaning, disinfecting, and pit draining; handle animal movements, assist with weaning, and keep accurate records while adhering to biosecurity and safety protocols

What You Offer Us:

  • Consistent reliability and strong work ethic, with a commitment to showing up prepared and performing daily tasks with precision
  • Physical readiness and resilience to handle the demands of barn work while maintaining high standards of animal care
  • Ability to follow established protocols and SOPs with attention to detail across all areas, including feeding, breeding, and sanitation
  • Eagerness to learn, take direction, and grow within the livestock industry through hands-on experience and structured training
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills, contributing to a positive, efficient, and safety-focused work environment
  • Dedication to upholding biosecurity measures, animal welfare standards, and company policies in all aspects of daily work

Pay and Benefits

This Animal Care Technician position starts at $20/hr. We also offer a great benefits package including health, dental, vision, a flexible spending account (FSA), life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, a 401(k) plan, paid holidays, a paid time off bank, and an employee assistance program (EAP).

Work Schedule

Although hours may vary, the typical work schedule for an Animal Care Technician position is Monday through Friday, 6:00 am 3:30 pm with a rotating weekend. When you work the weekend, you will have a scheduled day off during the week. This full-time job averages 43-45 hours a week.

Reports To:

Sow Farm Manager

Christensen Farms is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy to select the most qualified person for each position in the organization. No employee of CF will discriminate against any applicant for employment or a fellow employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, citizenship status, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, veteran status or any other prohibited basis under applicable local, state, or federal law.