Position Opening: Chief Operating Officer (COO)Company: 5280 Cattle Company Reports to: Chief Executive Officer About 5280 Cattle CompanyFounded in 2020 and operational since December 2021, 5280 Cattle Company is a specialized calf ranch dedicated to raising day-old dairy calves from birth to approximately 500 lbs. Operating with a current capacity of 10,000 head (permit capacity 25,000 head) across four client partners, we focus on scale-driven efficiency to produce superior, high-health calves that are marketed in semi-load quantities directly to feedlots. Our mission remains unchanged: deliver the highest-quality calf possible at a competitive cost while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare, biosecurity, and operational excellence. Position SummaryThe **Chief Operating Officer (COO)** is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations while simultaneously driving the strategic growth of the ranch to its full 25,000-head permitted capacity. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will lead a newly structured management team, optimize performance across all key performance indicators (KPIs), manage a significant operating budget, and serve as the primary point of contact for current and prospective clients. This is a hands-on, high-visibility position in a fast-paced, 24/7 livestock environment. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Operational LeadershipPartner with and elevate the existing management team and newly established Team Leads (Animal Health & Receiving, Movements/Shipping/Vaccinations, Pen & Facility Maintenance, Milk Barn & Bottle Operations).Oversee all daily operations including cattle health, pen movements, shipments, feed management, equipment maintenance, facility cleanliness, and biosecurity protocols.Develop, implement, and continuously improve standardized operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure consistent execution across all shifts.Manage supply chain and purchasing (forages, feed, equipment, and supplies) while driving cost efficiencies.Monitor and report on critical KPIs (death loss, average daily gain, feed conversion, treatment rates, etc.) and implement corrective actions as needed.Lead hiring, onboarding, training, performance management, and retention of all ranch staff.Maintain strict adherence to safety programs, regulatory requirements, and animal welfare standards. Strategic Growth & DevelopmentLead the phased build-out of the ranch to full 25,000-head capacity, including coordination of construction projects and infrastructure improvements.Identify, qualify, and secure new client partners while strengthening relationships with existing clients.Develop and execute cost-saving initiatives and operational efficiencies to support profitable scaling.Build a robust middle-management bench to support long-term sustainable growth.Provide the CEO and ownership group with timely, data-driven monthly reports and weekly operational updates. Qualifications & ExperienceMinimum 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in large-scale livestock operations, with strong preference for dairy calf ranch, heifer-growing, or dairy background.Proven track record managing teams of 50+ employees in a 24/7 agricultural environment.Demonstrated success in operational excellence, budget management, and scaling agricultural facilities.Strong financial acumen and comfort working under strict budget parameters.Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with both frontline staff and executive-level clients.Experience with livestock health protocols, feed management, and regulatory compliance is highly desirable.Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agribusiness, or related field preferred (equivalent experience considered). What We OfferCompetitive base salary of **$150,000 per year**Company-provided cell phone and work vehicleCompany Health Insurance via ICHRA reimbursementSimple IRA with up to 3% company matchOpportunity to build and lead a high-performing team in a rapidly growing, professionally managed calf ranch This is a full-time, salaried leadership position requiring a true 100% commitment. The role operates in a dynamic 24/7 environment and may include irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to address urgent operational needs.