Operations Manager - Native Seed Production at MNL – Glyndon, Minnesota

Do you take ownership of operations and step in wherever needed to keep work moving? Are you someone who can plan, prioritize, and execute – whether working independently or leading a small team? Do you take pride in efficient, well-run operations where both leadership and hands-on work are part of the job? If so, we are looking for you!

About Us

MNL is a full-service ecological restoration company dedicated to Healing the Earth. Our services include native seed and plant production, shoreline and wetland restoration, prescribed burns, conservation grazing, vegetation management, and ecological consulting. We also support solar and infrastructure projects with pollinator-friendly practices and land stewardship expertise.

MNL’s Seed division is responsible for growing, harvesting, and processing native seed across multiple production farms. This work combines agricultural production, specialized equipment, and processing (seed cleaning) operations to deliver high-quality native seed for restoration projects. The team works closely with agronomy and fulfillment to ensure consistency from field to final product.

The Opportunity

The Native Seed Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day execution of seed production and processing operations at our Glyndon, MN seed production farm. This role translates agronomy-created plans into clear priorities and ensures work is carried out efficiently, safely, and on schedule across both field and processing activities.

This role requires strong ownership of both planning and execution, with the ability to step in and complete work directly while also setting direction and priorities for the operation. You’ll actively participate in field and processing (seed cleaning) work, including operating equipment and executing key production activities as needed to maintain progress.

You’ll work closely with the Seed Agronomist to align on production priorities while ensuring work moves forward on time. Success in this role comes from creating structure, maintaining momentum, and take responsibility for keeping operations on track – whether working independently or leading a small team.

What You Will Do

• Lead and actively participate in seed production and processing operations from planting through harvest and cleaning.
• Translate seasonal production plans into clear daily and weekly work plans for field and processing teams.
• Schedule and align labor and equipment to keep planting, harvest, and processing on track to meet output goals & timelines. Execute work directly when needed to maintain progress and efficiency.
• Track progress against timelines and adjust plans quickly to address delays or bottlenecks.
• Partner with the Seed Agronomist to execute planting, crop management, and harvest activities.
• Oversee seed drying, cleaning, conditioning, and storage operations.
• Ensure and maintain consistency and quality across both field production and processing workflows.
• Lead, support, and develop operational staff (farm equipment operator, seed technicians, and seasonal labor) by setting clear expectations around performance, safety, and quality.
• Oversee equipment usage, maintenance planning, and operational readiness.
• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement improvements to workflows, equipment use, and facility efficiency.
• Maintain safe, organized, and effective work environments across field and processing operations.
• Communicate regularly with agronomy and internal teams on progress, priorities, and challenges
• Ensure production activities stay on schedule and address delays or gaps proactively.
• Support day-to-day field and processing work alongside the team, including operating farm equipment to support planting, spraying, harvesting, and other field activities.

What You Will Need To Be Successful

• 2+ years of experience leading agricultural production, seed operations, or similar field-based operations
• Ability to operate independently and make day-to-day decisions that keep production moving.
• Ability to lead and develop skilled operational teams.
• Strong planning and coordination skills across seasonal and daily work.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving production environment.
• Clear communication and ability to set direction and expectations.
• Working knowledge of agricultural production and/or seed processing operations.
• Experience operating agricultural equipment (tractors, sprayers, combines, etc.)
• Strong problem-solving mindset with a focus on efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Strong sense of ownership with the ability to drive work forward and hold teams accountable to timelines.
• Comfort working with equipment, facilities, and operational systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and operational or ERP systems.

Physical Requirements

This role requires regular work in both field and processing environments, including exposure to weather, dust, noise, and agricultural conditions. Ability to stand, walk, and work on uneven terrain for extended periods is required. Occasional lifting of materials up to 50 lbs. and operation around agricultural equipment is expected.