Position Overview:

Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT is seeking a Farm / Ranch Assistant for a diversified cow/calf, backgrounding, and hay operation located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley near Lexington. This is a hands-on, non-management role within a family-run operation, ideal for someone seeking long-term stability. The position is heavily equipment-focused, with cattle responsibilities as a secondary component. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with strong machinery experience, capable of working independently without constant oversight. The employer places a higher priority on equipment operation and mechanical ability than livestock experience, as cattle skills can be trained.

Position Responsibilities:

Equipment Operation (Primary Focus)

• Operate tractors for mowing, raking, baling, and planting
• Run skid steer and assist with mini excavator work
• Safely load, move, and transport hay and materials
• Operate equipment efficiently on rolling/hilly terrain
• Assist with silage, planting, and harvest operations

Excavation & Farm Improvement

• Fence line clearing and installation
• Water line installation and drainage work (e.g., French drains)
• Land clearing and general property improvements
• Support ongoing infrastructure upgrades across the farm

Cattle Responsibilities (Secondary)

• Assist with feeding cow herd and backgrounding cattle
• Support calving, tagging, and processing
• Identify and treat sick cattle (training available if needed)
• Assist with herd movement and pasture management
• Potential exposure to AI/ET work and seedstock development

Hay & Crop Production

• Mow, rake, and bale hay
• Assist with small grains and silage production
• Support seasonal planting and harvest operations

General Farm Duties

• Fence repair and maintenance
• Equipment upkeep and basic repairs
• Assist with daily operational needs across the farm

Schedule & Work Expectations:

• Typical 5-day work week
• Every other weekend rotation
• Holiday rotation (Thanksgiving/Christmas alternated)
• Seasonal hours based on weather and workload:
• Extended hours during hay season and harvest
• Early mornings, late evenings as needed
• Flex time provided when possible after peak periods

Operation Overview:

• Cow/Calf herd with expanding purebred component
• Backgrounding feeder cattle
• Hay production and small grains
• Corn for silage
• Ongoing farm improvement & excavation projects
• Family-run operation with active family involvement

Qualifications:

Required:

• Strong experience operating farm equipment (TOP PRIORITY)
• Basic mechanical and maintenance skills
• Ability to work independently without supervision
• Valid driver’s license
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and safety mindset
• Willingness to work seasonal hours and weekends

Preferred:

• Skid steer and mini excavator experience
• Hay production experience
• Fencing and water system installation experience

Cattle handling experience (not required but beneficial)