The Australian Agricultural Company (AACo) is Australia’s largest integrated cattle and beef producer, specialising in grass-fed, grain-fed, and Wagyu beef production. Established back in 1824, we’ve been doing this a while – in fact, we’re Australia’s oldest continuously operating company. We’ve had plenty of time to figure out how to be the best workplace we can be, with all the support, training, and opportunity you need to shape your career how you want to. We’re dedicated to acknowledging our history even as we look to sustainably feed the future – and we’d love you to join us.
Job Description
About the role:
We are looking for a Farm Operations Manager to join our Canobie Station, located 180 km north of Julia Creek, 200 km north of Cloncurry, and 350 km from Karumba. The farm operates in an annual rainfall zone of 520 mm.
This is a broadacre dry land farming operation of around 7000Ha. Each year we have a rotation of Forage, Legume, cereals and fallow. We grow a large amount of forage sorghum each year, which is contract-cut and baled to supply hay to Northern properties.
As the Farm Operations Manager, you will lead the day-to-day operations of a large-scale dryland farming operation, focusing on crop management, equipment maintenance, and workforce planning. Collaborating with the Regional Manager, you will play a pivotal role in the success of this operation and the development of farming in North Queensland. You will also coordinate with contractors, consultants, and industry bodies to drive efficient and compliant operations.
This role is perfect for someone who is passionate about broadacre cropping and is looking to take the next step into a leadership role.
Some of the key responsibilities you can expect in the role are to:
Lead and develop farm staff to ensure a productive and engaged workforce.
Oversee cropping programs to maintain a reliable commodity supply.
Proactively manage seasonal forage cropping to align with feed pool requirements.
Manage budgets and P&L with accountability for financial performance.
Monitor and report paddock and crop conditions to management.
Maintain the highest standards of crop quality and production.
Plan and execute annual work programs and crop rotations.
Desired Skills and Experience
What we are looking for:
Previous experience in cropping systems, in a hands-on operational leadership role.
Extensive knowledge with agricultural management systems E.g. Agworld, Starfire Systems and Controlled traffic.
Strong background in corporate processes, compliance, gross margin budgeting, and interpreting agronomic advice
Commercially driven with a keen focus on profitability
Skilled in operating and maintaining cropping machinery
Strategic thinker with a focus on long-term planning and sustainable practices
Experience working on property development and land use transformation projects
Accountable for the effective use and care of assets
Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams, managing staff, contractors, and businesses
Expert knowledge of WHS and experience in implementing safety frameworks
Demonstrates initiative, strong problem-solving abilities, and a positive, solution-oriented attitude
Physically fit and capable of fulfilling the role’s demands
Current driver’s licence (highly regarded: Heavy Vehicle Truck Licence, ChemCert, First Aid, Confined Space, Working at Heights)
Employee Benefits
Service recognition & employee discounts with preferred suppliers.
Ongoing training and development, both on-the-job and from external providers
Wi-Fi access, air-conditioned accommodation and meals provided.
Apply Now to join the AACo Team!
We hope this overview has provided you with valuable insight into AACo. To apply for this position, please submit your application via the apply button below. If you have any questions or would like any further information, please contact us via recruitment@aaco.com.au
