Crop Production Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of modern agriculture, the role of Crop Production Managers has never been more critical.

As food demand increases, and farming technologies advance, the need for proficient individuals who can efficiently manage, improve, and protect our agricultural resources is growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Crop Production Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the dynamic field of crop production management,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Crop Production Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Crop Production Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Crop Production Managers are integral to the success of agricultural operations.

They oversee all aspects of planting, growing, and harvesting crops.

They also plan, organize, and manage crop production in a farm, estate, or similar environment.

The duties and responsibilities of a Crop Production Manager include:

• Planning and coordinating the production and marketing of crops, such as fruit, vegetables, grains, and so on, ensuring that they meet quality standards
• Monitoring growth and health of crops, identifying pests or diseases, and determining the best course of action to prevent loss of crops
• Overseeing soil preparation, planting, and harvesting operations to ensure maximum productivity
• Managing the irrigation of fields, and ensuring the proper distribution of water
• Keeping up to date with new research and technology in crop production to increase efficiency and profitability
• Implementing and promoting sustainable farming practices to maintain or improve soil health
• Ensuring compliance with government regulations and health and safety standards
• Supervising farm labor, coordinating their tasks, and ensuring they are properly trained
• Organizing the repair and routine maintenance of farm machinery and equipment
• Keeping detailed records of crop activities and reporting on production, costs, and staff performance

 

Crop Production Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and dynamic Crop Production Manager to join our team.

The Crop Production Manager’s responsibilities include planning, executing, and monitoring all the activities related to crop production from planting to harvest.

These responsibilities may include coordinating staff, selecting crops, optimizing yield, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with government regulations.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in agriculture, excellent organizational skills, and a keen understanding of the latest technologies and methodologies in crop production.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement crop production plans and strategies.
• Manage daily operations related to crop production, including staff supervision, equipment maintenance, and inventory control.
• Select and purchase seeds, fertilizers, and other supplies.
• Monitor crop development and implement measures to optimize yield.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to agricultural production.
• Maintain records of crop production, including yield data, pesticide use, and equipment logs.
• Coordinate with sales and marketing teams to optimize crop selection and profitability.
• Stay updated on current trends and advancements in agricultural production methodologies.
• Implement and enforce safety procedures and protocols.
• Manage budget and production costs.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Crop Production Manager or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of crop production and farming best practices.
• Familiarity with agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
• Ability to make decisions under pressure.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures.
• BSc degree in Agriculture, Farm Management, or a relevant field.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Accommodation on the farm (where applicable)

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Crop Production Manager
• Work Environment: Primarily outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. Some office work may be required for planning and record-keeping.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or Agricultural Operations Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Crop Production Manager Do?

Crop Production Managers typically work for agricultural organizations or farms.

They may also be self-employed, managing their own farm or agricultural business.

They are responsible for overseeing the operations of planting, growing, and harvesting crops.

Their duties often include planning the types of crops to be planted, the layout of the land, and the equipment necessary for crop production.

Crop Production Managers work closely with other agricultural workers to ensure the effective and efficient operation of crop production.

They also monitor the health and growth of the crops, making decisions about the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and other treatments to maximize crop yield.

They compare the actual yields of their crops to their projected yields and determine ways to improve crop production.

They may also be responsible for managing the financial aspects of the farm, such as budgeting for equipment and supplies, and predicting market trends for selling crops.

Crop Production Managers also ensure that their operations comply with government regulations and standards for safety and environmental impact.

This could involve implementing measures to protect the health of workers or prevent contamination of crops.

In addition, they might also be involved in the hiring, training, and supervision of farm workers, ensuring that they perform their duties effectively and safely.

 

Crop Production Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Crop Production Manager should possess the following skills and qualifications to ensure the effective and efficient management of crop production:

• Agricultural knowledge and experience in crop production to effectively plan, manage, and execute crop cultivation and harvesting.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the soil quality, crop health, and implement effective techniques for crop yield maximization.
• Understanding of agricultural machinery and equipment operation for timely and efficient crop production.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to manage pest control, weed management, and address any crop-related issues.
• Leadership and team management skills to guide and motivate a team of farm workers, ensuring all tasks are performed efficiently.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices and environmental regulations to ensure the agricultural practices align with environmental and safety standards.
• Excellent communication skills for effective coordination with suppliers, workers, and other stakeholders.
• Planning and organizational skills for efficient scheduling and execution of planting, fertilization, irrigation, and harvesting operations.
• Basic knowledge of bookkeeping and budget management to ensure cost-efficient farming practices.

 

Crop Production Manager Experience Requirements

A Crop Production Manager typically has an educational background in Agriculture, Horticulture, Botany, or a related field.

Practical experience is also crucial in this role, and it is usually obtained through internships or part-time jobs on farms or agricultural firms during their studies.

This hands-on experience is important to understand various crop growing techniques and farming practices.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience may have worked in a similar role or in fields such as Farm Supervisor, Agricultural Technician, or Horticulturist, where they have honed their skills in crop production and management.

Individuals with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deep understanding of the agricultural industry and have honed their expertise in crop management.

They may have worked as an Agronomist or in a similar capacity, overseeing and managing crop production and yield optimization.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are generally ready for more managerial responsibilities.

They may have a track record of successfully managing a team, dealing with crop-related challenges, and implementing innovative farming techniques to boost crop yield and profitability.

 

Crop Production Manager Education and Training Requirements

Crop Production Managers usually have a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, farming, horticulture, agriculture science, or a related field.

They require a strong knowledge base in plant and soil science, agriculture technology, and sustainable farming practices.

Some positions, particularly those involving the management of large-scale farming operations, may require Crop Production Managers to have a master’s degree in agribusiness or agriculture management.

Individuals in this role may also benefit from certification programs related to farm management, organic farming, irrigation management or pest management.

As with other fields, obtaining a master’s degree and/or certification can demonstrate a candidate’s dedication to continuous learning and potential for leadership in the field.

In addition to formal education, practical experience in farming and crop production can be invaluable.

This can be gained through internships, apprenticeships, or working in a farming environment.

Continuing education is also important for Crop Production Managers as advancements in technology, pest control, and sustainable farming practices continue to evolve.

 

Crop Production Manager Salary Expectations

A Crop Production Manager typically earns an average salary of $69,074 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, educational background, the size and location of the farm, and the specific type of crops being managed.

 

Crop Production Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Crop Production Manager need?

A Crop Production Manager should have a good understanding of crop growth, agricultural equipment, and farming techniques.

They should also have strong analytical skills to assess the health of crops and make decisions based on yield predictions.

Leadership, communication, and decision-making skills are also important as they need to lead a team and interact with other stakeholders.

 

Do Crop Production Managers need a degree?

While not always mandatory, having a degree in agriculture, agronomy, crop science, or a related field can be advantageous for a Crop Production Manager.

Practical experience in farming or agricultural management is often considered more important.

Some employers may also require certifications in pesticide application or other relevant areas.

 

What should you look for in a Crop Production Manager resume?

The resume should show a strong background in farming or agriculture, including work experience in crop management and production.

Look for knowledge of agricultural equipment and modern farming techniques.

Experience in team management, budgeting, and operations planning are also key.

Certifications in relevant areas such as pesticide application can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Crop Production Manager?

A good Crop Production Manager should have a deep understanding of agriculture and crop growth.

They should be detail-oriented, able to monitor crops for signs of disease or pests.

Strong leadership abilities are crucial as they’ll need to manage teams and coordinate with other departments.

They should also be adaptable, able to adjust plans based on weather conditions or crop health.

 

What are the daily duties of a Crop Production Manager?

A Crop Production Manager typically starts the day by checking on crop status, inspecting for pests, diseases, or any signs of unhealthy growth.

They will plan and supervise the planting, fertilization, and harvesting processes.

They may also spend time maintaining and repairing farming equipment, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations.

Regular meetings with farmers, suppliers, and other stakeholders are also part of the job.

 

Is it challenging to hire Crop Production Managers?

Hiring a Crop Production Manager can be challenging because it requires a unique combination of farming knowledge, management skills, and operational planning abilities.

The candidate should also be comfortable working in outdoor environments, often under changing weather conditions.

Therefore, finding a candidate that meets all these requirements can be difficult.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shone a light on what it truly means to be a crop production manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about planting seeds.

It’s about nurturing the future of our food supply, one crop at a time.

With our comprehensive crop production manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-tailored job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every seed sown is part of a larger harvest.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

How to Become a Crop Production Manager (Complete Guide)

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