Dutchland Dairy is a progressive, family-owned dairy operation located in Rolfe, Iowa, owned and operated by Dan and Dr. Dave Duitscher. With a strong foundation in animal health, operational efficiency, and long-term growth, the dairy is currently milking 2,000 cows in a double-20 parlor and is actively expanding.
Our next phase includes the construction of a 106-stall rotary parlor and a new 2,400-head freestall barn, with future plans to scale up to 4,000+ milking cows and additional capacity beyond that. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing, forward-thinking dairy at a pivotal time and play a key role in shaping its future.
Position Overview
Dutchland Dairy is seeking an Operations Manager (or Operations Manager in Training) to help lead day-to-day operations and support ongoing expansion efforts. This individual will work closely with ownership to oversee employees, coordinate across departments, and ensure efficient, high-quality execution across all areas of the dairy.
This role offers a unique opportunity for someone who enjoys a mix of leadership (or someone ready for that next step into leadership), hands-on work, and strategic involvement in a rapidly growing agricultural operation.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $70,000 – $110,000 annually (based on experience)
- Health insurance provided
- 3% retirement match
- Farm vehicle provided
- Housing available: Beautiful acreage for $500/month
- Potential future involvement in cropping revenue
- Long-term opportunity for ownership participation
Key Responsibilities
Team & Operations Management
- Lead and support employee management across departments
- Schedule labor and ensure proper staffing coverage
- Foster a positive, accountable team culture
Maintenance Coordination
Oversee and coordinate maintenance across three key areas:
- Shop & Equipment: Work with shop personnel to maintain farm and dairy equipment
- Parlor Operations: Collaborate with herd management and dairy equipment providers to establish and maintain protocols for the new rotary parlor
- Facilities & Barns: Coordinate with barn foreman to ensure facility upkeep
Crop & Forage Support
- Assist with 2,400 acres of corn silage and haylage production
- Provide support during planting and harvest seasons
- Help manage forage operations as needed
Dairy Operations Support
- Assist with cow management as needed (minimal percentage of time)
- Coordinate daily and weekly milk load scheduling, including adjustments
Feed & Nutrition Oversight
- Work closely with the farm nutritionist
- Monitor and adjust forage moisture levels
- Support and oversee feeders
- Manage feed ordering and inventory
Business & Vendor Coordination
- Maintain relationships with vendors and service providers
- Review invoices and assist with financial oversight
- Work with accountants on accrual-based financials
General Farm Support
- Step in wherever needed to support the success of the operation
Ideal Candidate
- Strong leadership and organizational skills
- Experience in dairy, livestock, or agricultural operations preferred
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and teams
- Willingness to be hands-on and adaptable
- Interest in long-term growth and potential ownership opportunities
Why Join Dutchland Dairy?
This is more than just a job - it’s an opportunity to grow with a rapidly expanding dairy operation and play a meaningful role in its future. With strong leadership, clear growth plans, and the potential for long-term ownership, this position is ideal for someone looking to build a lasting career in progressive dairy management.
