Cow/Calf Operations Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Cow/Calf Operations Manager leads day-to-day management of JLC’s 700–800 head cow/calf operation, including an off-site calving facility, the annual breeding program, summer grazing, and fall herd health work. This position requires hands-on livestock experience, strong crew leadership, and the flexibility to manage a demanding year-round workload.

QUALIFICATIONS

•    Extensive calving and breeding experience

•    Knowledge of artificial insemination and embryo transfer processes

•    Extensive knowledge of general livestock and herd health

•    Fencing and pasture management experience

LEADERSHIP

•    Participate in monthly leadership/management meetings

•    Delegate tasks and manage a 6–8 person calving crew

•    Experience managing teams

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

•    Prepare and operate the 700–800 head calving facility, including barn and pen prep, crew management, and sorting cows/pairs into groups

•    Oversee the 200–400 head off-site calving facility, including herd health, winter rations, and feed calls

•    Schedule, manage, and execute calf processing

•    Prepare and operate the breeding facility; assist with the 2,200 head breeding program, including synchronization, AI, and ET of 1,000–1,200 head at JLC and offsite herds

•    Manage cow/calf herd health year-round

•    Organize ultrasounding of the cow herd

•    Create and execute a 5–6 month rotational grazing plan

•    Fit and maintain eShepherd collars; deliver mineral weekly

•    Prepare and maintain summer and fall pastures, fences, and water tanks

•    Organize turnout and haul cow/calf pairs to grass

•    Prepare weaning pens and organize weaning

•    Manage rations and bunk for weaned calves and replacement heifers

•    Move and process/cake cow groups for fall and winter grazing as needed

•    Relocate cows back to calving facilities; administer pre-calving shots and collect fecal samples

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

•    Hourly, full-time, in-person position

•    100% employer-paid health insurance with $2,600 annual HSA contribution

•    3% IRA match

•    $1,200 annual vehicle reimbursement, plus fuel provided

•    Lunch provided Monday–Friday