Farm Operations Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking an Agricultural Specialist II - Team Lead to support dairy operations at the ISU Dairy Farm. This is a unique opportunity to work in a university setting that combines production agriculture, applied research, teaching, and student engagement while contributing to the mission of a land-grant institution.

The Team Lead oversees evening operations and helps ensure high-quality animal care, efficient dairy production, and successful support of teaching and research activities. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work with cattle, leading a team, solving problems, and working in a collaborative environment alongside faculty, researchers, and students.

Responsibilities include:

• Oversee evening crew staff and student employees to ensure timely completion of milking, herd care, sanitation, and daily operations

• Train team members in dairy production practices, animal handling, safety procedures, and research protocols

• Coordinate with daytime staff and farm management to maintain consistent herd care and farm operations

• Monitor animal health, respond to emergencies, and troubleshoot operational issues

• Support applied research activities and collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, and researchers

• Maintain records related to animal health, production data, equipment maintenance, and research activities

• Operate and maintain farm equipment and facilities, including tractors, skid steers, and milking systems

• Utilize herd management software and Microsoft Office tools for data tracking and reporting

• Assist with budgeting, inventory management, and procurement of feed, cattle, and supplies

If you thrive in a hands-on environment where no two days are the same, this is an exciting opportunity to be part of a research and teaching dairy farm. You will contribute to student learning experiences, support organizations such as the Dairy Science and Veterinary Medicine clubs, and play an important role in advancing animal science programs at Iowa State University.

This position offers a consistent Monday-Friday evening schedule (approximately 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.) with shared rotating weekend coverage, providing predictable work hours and flexibility for daytime commitments.

Iowa State University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with milking procedures and equipment

• Experience working with livestock or large animals and familiarity with animal health monitoring and treatment

• Familiarity with general agricultural equipment operation and maintenance

• Leadership or team lead experience

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

This position will be open until filled.

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.