Oakridge Dairy is seeking an experienced Crops Operations Manager to lead all aspects of crop production and forage management for their dairy operation in Ellington, CT. This hands-on leadership role oversees planning, planting, nutrient management, harvest, storage, and compliance - ensuring the production of high-quality feed crops including corn silage, haylage, soybeans, and other forage and grain crops.
About Us:
Oakridge Dairy is a progressive, majority family-owned dairy operation based in Ellington, Connecticut, dedicated to producing high-quality milk through strong herd management, advanced crop production practices, and a team-first culture. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement, Oakridge Dairy operates with a forward-thinking mindset-investing in people, land stewardship, and modern agricultural practices to support both the herd and the community. The crops division plays a critical role in producing high-quality corn silage, haylage, soybeans, and forage crops that fuel herd performance and long-term farm sustainability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead all crop production operations of corn silage, haylage, soybeans, and forage crops, including planting, spraying, harvesting, and forage pile management.
- Oversee crop planning, rotations, soil health, nutrient management programs, and feed quality optimization.
- Timely procurement of seed, fertilizer, and other crop inputs.
- Oversee manure handling, application, and dragline operations while ensuring CAFO and CNMP compliance.
- Operate and oversee heavy farm machinery and semi-trucks, enforcing safety protocols.
- Coordinate preventative maintenance and repairs on all Oakridge-owned facilities and equipment.
- Lead and develop the crops team: managing schedules, assigning task, providing training, and giving performance feedback.
- Oversee operational expenses and invoice approvals while tracking production costs, analyzing metrics, and implementing cost-reduction strategies.
- Maintain up-to-date CAFO and landowner documentation and keep detailed operational records.
- Maintain Oakridge Dairy’s positive community reputation though community support and relationships.
Qualifications:
- Strong agricultural background with experience in agronomy, crop production, or dairy crop operations.
- Proven experience growing corn, soybeans, hay, and forage crops.
- Knowledge of manure management and nutrient application systems.
- Experience operating heavy farm equipment and trucks.
- Comfortable working hands-on in the field and around livestock.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- CDL is a plus.
What We Offer:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401K and PTO.
- Potential for career development within a growing company.