Ranch Manager
Full TimeJob Description
*Position *
Purpose The Ranch Manager leads all operational aspects of a designated ranch or group of ranches, ensuring efficient execution of fieldwork, adherence to safety and regulatory standards, and alignment with the organization’s mission and values. This role is responsible for planning and overseeing daily and weekly tasks, coordinating labor, managing work orders, finalizing payroll, and ensuring the timely and accurate completion of farm activities. The Ranch Manager uses digital platforms such as AgWorld, Picktrace, Intelliculture, and Phytech to plan, monitor, and evaluate ranch operations. They supervise crew leaders, support irrigators and equipment operators, and ensure materials, supplies, and labor are prepared in advance. Success in this role requires a proactive mindset, strong organizational and leadership skills, and an ability to adapt plans based on real-time conditions in the field. Acreage Covered: Up to 600 acres.
*General Responsibilities *
* Foster team cohesiveness and efficiency
* Maintain a safe and clean working environment
* Be a steward of the environment
* Support production of a safe, high-quality product
* Hire, train, and retain staff with Regional Manager input
* Drive labor efficiency and resource optimization
* Accompany HR/Safety on walkthroughs
* Attend safety meetings as required
* Attend twice-weekly cross-team meetings on time, prepared, and engaged
* Participate actively in meetings and take organized notes
*Work Orders & Scheduling *
* Coordinate with Regional Manager to plan and approve work orders and crew schedules
* Maintain daily crew plans using Picktrace Crew Scheduler
* Enter a forward-looking plan for the following week into Picktrace by each Friday
* Ensure weekly plans align with AgWorld inputs for sprays, irrigation, and other tasks
* Maintain the ranch job list in AgWorld and ensure accurate work order records for tasks such as sprays, crew work, and installations, based on recommendations from leadership
*Payroll & Labor Review*
* Review all farm work to ensure hours and piecework are accurately recorded
* Finalize previous week’s payroll in Picktrace by end of day Monday
* Ensure that piece count entries in payroll reflect actual fruit or task counts performed
* Resolve discrepancies with crew leaders and admin staff
* Ensure compliance with piece rate and wage laws
*Crew Management *
* Prepare work samples before crew arrival and ensure they are approved by the Area Manager prior to crew work beginning
* Monitor crew work and efficiency by comparing against the prepared sample Supervise crew leaders while their crews are working on the ranch
* Ensure crew leaders are properly supported in executing daily tasks
* Monitor crew adherence to efficiency and quality expectations
* Provide coaching or correction to crew leaders as needed
* Ensure work orders for crew tasks are clearly understood and implemented
*Materials & Applications*
* Monitor AgWorld for new recommendations
* Calibrate and test application equipment
* Coordinate proper timing of chemical applications
* Monitor the accuracy of chemical mixing procedures
* Maintain and submit accurate daily actuals for work completed into AgWorld
* Manage inventory of crop protection materials
* Arrange for timely pickup/return of reusable containers
* Maintain Worker Protection Standard (WPS) postings related to chemical applications
*Scouting & Quality Assurance *
* Scout each block at least twice per week
* Identify and report potential problems to management
*Irrigation Management *
* Use Phytech to monitor tree stress and guide irrigation decisions
* Utilize the Nelson Twig System for automated irrigation scheduling
* Check in regularly with irrigators to ensure proper system operation and maintenance
* Quickly address and resolve issues related to irrigation performance or breakdowns
* Understand and ensure proper use and maintenance of pumps, filters, electric valves, and other irrigation system components
* Ensure proper installation, repair, and upkeep of irrigation systems
* Supervise and ensure proper spring startup and winterization of irrigation systems and components
*Equipment & Maintenance *
* Ensure proper equipment use and maintenance
* Ensure equipment operators follow state and federal safety standards
* Ensure equipment is operated in a way that avoids damage to equipment or orchard infrastructure
* Monitor tractor driver activity using Intelliculture to maximize productivity
* Report equipment issues to Maintenance Manager
* Monitor buildings and grounds for maintenance needs
*Harvest & Trucking Logistics *
* Conduct and evaluate starch samples to assess harvest readiness and optimize fruit quality
* Ensure bin supply readiness for harvest
* Coordinate fruit transport logistics
* Oversee efficient harvesting and quality assurance
* Input load information into the digital system, ensuring this information is reconciled with payroll data daily
*Supplies & Inventory *
* Procure supplies in advance and in appropriate quantities to avoid work delays, minimize trips, and take advantage of favorable pricing
* Enter supply receipts into the farm’s inventory system
* Conduct monthly stock takes and reconcile with digital inventory records
* Enter and maintain inventory in the system
* Minimize on-hand inventory by promptly returning unused materials and coordinating with other Ranch Managers to use open or leftover supplies
*Compliance *
Maintain compliance with Global GAP and federal/state regulations
*Skills & Experience*
* 10+ years in farm operations
* Proven ability to manage people effectively
* Strong team collaboration skills, including cross-language teamwork
* Excellent communication and time management
* Strong recordkeeping and organizational abilities
* Proficiency with AgWorld and Picktrace systems
* Comfort using mobile devices and scheduling tools for farm operations Demonstrates a proactive approach to identifying issues and planning ahead rather than reacting to problems
*Performance Metrics *
* Target packed boxes per acre per manhour
* Farm appearance
* Safety ratings
*Required Certifications *
* Private Chemical Applicator License
* First Aid Certification
* Forklift Certification
*Note: *This job description is not all-inclusive. Duties may evolve with the needs of the organization.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 – $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* 401(k)
* 401(k) matching
* Dental insurance
* Health insurance
* Health savings account
* Paid time off
* Vision insurance
Schedule:
* 8 hour shift
* Day shift
* Holidays
* Monday to Friday
* Weekends as needed
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Experience:
* Ranch Manager: 10 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
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*Job was aggregated from Indeed.com*
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