Farm Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Farm Manager

Position Summary

The Farm Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing agricultural real estate assets.  The position focuses on maximizing the long-term value, productivity, and profitability of grain-producing farmland. The Farm manager ensures compliance with lease agreements and all related regulations while serving as the primary liaison among parties involved.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Farm Asset Management

• Manage a portfolio of grain-producing farm properties on behalf of customers, preserving and enhancing long-term asset value.
• Conduct regular farm inspections to assess crop conditions, facility maintenance needs, drainage systems, conservation practices, and overall property condition.
• Monitor farm operations to ensure compliance with lease terms and property management objectives.

Tenant and Lease Management

• Negotiate, administer, and renew lease agreements.
• Maintain productive relationships with tenant farmers and agricultural operators.
• Evaluate tenant performance and financial stability.

Financial Management and Reporting

• Prepare and monitor annual farm budgets and income projections.
• Analyze farm operating results, rental rates, input costs, and market conditions.
• Review and approve farm-related invoices and expenditures.
• Prepare written reports regarding farm performance and property conditions.
• Assist in determining fair market rental rates and property valuations.

Agricultural Operations Oversight

• Monitor crop production activities including planting, fertilization, pest control, harvest, and grain marketing practices.
• Evaluate production methods and recommend improvements to increase profitability and sustainability.
• Coordinate with agronomists, crop consultants, contractors, and other agricultural professionals.
• Remain up-to-date on market conditions, industry trends and emerging ag-tech.

Conservation and Environmental Stewardship

• Promote sound conservation practices to protect soil, water, and natural resources.
• Assist with implementation of conservation programs and improvements. 

Client and Fiduciary Support

• Provide objective recommendations consistent with fiduciary standards and the best interests of beneficiaries and account owners.
• Support farm acquisitions, sales, appraisals, and due diligence activities.
• Maintain accurate records related to leases, inspections, financial performance, and correspondence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Business, Farm Management, Agricultural Economics, or a related field, preferred.
• Applicants with several years’ work experience in farm management, agricultural production or related positions will also be considered.
• Experience with grain production systems or other regional crops preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of grain production practices and agricultural economics.
• Understanding of farmland valuation, lease structures, and farm financial analysis.
• Knowledge of conservation and environmental stewardship practices.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and agricultural management software.
• Ability to interpret financial statements, budgets, and market data.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office and field work.
• Frequent travel to farm properties within assigned territory.
• Ability to walk farm fields and inspect agricultural facilities in varying weather conditions.
• Occasional evening meetings with clients, tenants, or community stakeholders.

The bank is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

Citizens First National Bank is a medium-sized, family-owned community bank located in Storm Lake, Iowa. Chartered in 1902, the bank is still managed by members of the founding family. For more than a century, we have been committed to relationship-based banking that serves our customers, our employees, and our community.

We value hard work and personal responsibility, and we believe family life is as important as work life. We believe good business is built on sincere, long-lasting relationships that benefit our organization, our customers, and the communities we serve.

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-term Disability Insurance
• Short-term Disability Insurance
• 100% Employer Funded Profit Sharing
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Sick Time
• Paid Jury Duty
• Bereavement Leave