Rydberg Farms is a family-owned cattle and grain operation located in Essex, Iowa. We take pride in caring for our livestock, maintaining our equipment and land, and operating a dependable, well-run farm. We are seeking a hardworking and reliable Cattle & Grain Farm Operator to join our team and assist with livestock care, crop production, equipment operation, feed handling and local hauling.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience as a farm hand, farm equipment operator, ranch hand, cattle feeder or agricultural laborer who enjoys hands-on work and wants to become an important part of a diversified farming operation in Southwest Iowa.
What’s In It For You
- Competitive salary, paid twice a month
- Flexible work schedule
- Retention bonus paid after completing 1 year of continuous employment
- Discretionary bonus – based on overall work ethic, reliability, and contribution to the operation
- Possible meat bonus
What You’ll Do
- Feed cattle daily and monitor livestock health, behavior and overall well-being.
- Handle, process and mix feed ingredients according to established feeding practices.
- Assist with cattle handling and other livestock-related responsibilities.
- Operate tractors, loaders, skid steers, tillage equipment and other farm machinery.
- Support planting, harvest and general grain farming activities as needed.
- Inspect, clean and perform routine maintenance on farm equipment and facilities.
- Drive a semi for local grain, feed, livestock or farm-related hauling as needed.
- Complete general farm maintenance and other duties based on experience and skill set.
- Follow safe operating practices when working around livestock, machinery and vehicles.
What We’re Looking For
- Previous experience in cattle production, grain farming, equipment operation or a related agricultural role is preferred.
- Dependable, self-motivated and willing to take ownership of daily responsibilities.
- Strong attention to detail, especially when monitoring livestock and operating equipment.
- Comfortable working outdoors in changing weather and seasonal farm conditions.
- Able to perform physical, hands-on work and manage the demands of a working farm.
- Respectful of coworkers, livestock, equipment, land and other farm property.
- Willing to work flexible hours during planting, harvest and other busy seasons.
- A valid driver’s license and good driving record are required.
- A CDL or previous semi-driving experience is a plus.