Operations Manager

About Us: Iowa Cover Crop is a specialty seed and application business owned and operated by two Iowa farm families. Recognized by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as a “Leader in Conservation,” we are a leading provider of cover crops, native seeds, alfalfa, and grass seed in Iowa and surrounding states. We are a small business, but continuing to grow with this emerging industry, and we're seeking a highly skilled Operations Manager to oversee our daily warehouse and office operations.

Position Overview: As the Operations Manager, you will be a utility player, having both leadership and administrative responsibilities while also performing physical labor as necessary to fulfill orders. The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and executing various aspects of our day-to-day operations including, but not limited to inbound and outbound logistics, production scheduling, inventory management, and retail office functions. This position is located at our Jefferson, IA facility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Scheduling, communicating, and preparing inbound and outbound shipments
• Interacting with customers and fulfilling orders including customer telephone calls and emails
• Coordinate custom blending logistics, ensuring execution within timing expectations
• Maintain detailed and accurate warehousing, blending, and seed testing records and generate useful operational reporting to support decision-making within the business
• Implement and oversee inventory management best practices
• Lead continuous improvement efforts and drive the development of standard work procedures
• Independently resolve operational issues promptly and communicate with ownership
• Communicate clearly and frequently with internal and external stakeholders
• Coordinate frequently with ownership and other functional areas such as accounting, procurement, and sales to meet customer needs and resolve issues
• Manage and mentor warehouse staff
• Train warehouse staff on relevant standard operating procedures
• Additional responsibilities can be granted to align with candidate’s experience and goals

Requirements:

• Associates Degree or higher is preferred
• Must have a valid driver's license and forklift experience is preferred
• Must be able to move/lift 60bs minimum and perform physical labor
• Able to work in warehouse environment where some dust is present
• Able to relocate or reliably commute to Jefferson, IA
• Ability to work long hours during seasonal peak (primarily August - October)
• Prior experience in warehouse management, ag retail, logistics, or similar role
• Previous leadership experience is preferred but not required
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail
• Self-motivated with ability to prioritize and organize multiple tasks and adapt to changing demands
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate teams to achieve goals
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with multiple stakeholders, including customers
• Familiarity with industry best practices, regulations, and compliance standards is preferred
• Experience with technology tools such as Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word), GSuite, and accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks).

Benefits:

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and flexible time off
• A collaborative small business environment with a focus on sustainable growth, consistent improvement, and having fun while we do it

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Jefferson, IA 50129 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Jefferson, IA 50129: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person