PLEASE NOTE: We will not reply if your resume does not meet position requirements. Please understand your education and experience must match our job listings for you to be considered. You must be a U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Resident to be considered for any U.S. positions.?There is NO closing date on this position.? This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.?Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT Searching for Orchard Operations Manager ? Central KentuckyHansen Agri-PLACEMENT is assisting a progressive ownership group in the startup and development of a new hazelnut orchard operation in Central Kentucky. This is a unique ground-floor opportunity for a highly motivated agricultural professional who wants to be involved in building and managing an operation from the ground up.POSITION OVERVIEWThis role will serve as the on-site operational lead for a newly developing orchard operation. The Orchard Operations Manager will work directly with ownership and a remote consultant to establish infrastructure, develop the orchard, and manage all day-to-day operations. The individual hired will have significant decision-making responsibility and will play a key role in building the business from its earliest stages. This is not a traditional, established farm position. The successful candidate must be comfortable stepping into a start-up environment where systems, equipment, and facilities are still being developed.RESPONSIBILITIESOversee daily operations of developing orchardAssist with infrastructure planning and developmentCoordinate installation of irrigation systemsMake recommendations and decisions on equipment purchasesEstablish operational procedures and workflowHire, train, and supervise a small team (3?4 employees)Manage planting, spraying, fertility, and harvest planningOversee payroll approvals and administrative functionsWork with vendors and establish supplier relationshipsTrack expenses and assist with budgeting decisionsCoordinate with ownership and consultant for strategic directionManage operation as a business unit with ownership mindsetThis role will require both hands-on field work and management responsibilities.IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILEEmployer prefers an individual who:Will have commercial Orchard experienceIs confident making decisions independentlyCan take direction and communicate remotelyHas leadership and management potentialIs adaptable and not set in rigid methodsHas interest in long-term orchard developmentIs looking for advancement opportunityIs willing to grow with the operationHazelnut ideal, but tree-crop experience needed?QUALIFICATIONSSolid crop production backgroundExperience operating and managing farm equipmentAbility to lead and manage employeesStrong communication and organizational skillsFinancial and operational decision-making abilitySelf-starter with entrepreneurial mindsetWillingness to relocate to Central KentuckyOPPORTUNITYThis is a rare chance to step into a leadership role at the start of a new agricultural venture. The Orchard Operations Manager will play a key role in building systems, infrastructure, and long-term success of the operation.??ALL INQUIRIES ARE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL. NO FEES TO APPLICANTS.If you feel that you are not a candidate for this position, but know someone who is, we do offer a Referral Bonus if we place your referral into this position.