Operations & Administrative Manager

Job Description Operations & Administrative Manager – Agronomy LaboratoryCompany: Next Level AgLocation: Alpena, South DakotaAbout Next Level AgNext Level Ag is a high-performance agronomy laboratory specializing in soil, plant tissue, water, and manure analysis. We are committed to precision, accountability, and continuous improvement in agricultural testing. Our team operates with urgency, ownership, and a drive to raise the standard in the industry.Position OverviewNext Level Ag is seeking an Operations & Administrative Manager to provide leadership support and operational oversight across our laboratory. This role will help build operational systems, maintain compliance processes, support performance management, and ensure consistent day-to-day operations.The Operations & Administrative Manager will work closely with the Lab Director to strengthen organizational structure and improve operational efficiency.This role is ideal for someone who enjoys creating systems, maintaining accountability, and supporting a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations LeadershipManage employee scheduling, PTO tracking, and payroll coordinationCoordinate hiring logistics, intern scheduling, and onboarding processesMaintain employee documentation and HR-related recordsServe as the primary administrative contact for incoming communicationsCoordinate facility operations and preventive maintenance schedulingCompliance & Regulatory OversightManage documentation and submission deadlines for NRCS, USDA, ALP, and NAPT requirementsMaintain audit-ready compliance recordsTrack certifications, training documentation, and regulatory requirementsEnsure operational processes align with regulatory standardsPerformance & AccountabilitySupport structured employee performance review systems with the Lab DirectorTrack attendance, timeliness, and accountability metricsProvide leadership-level feedback regarding performance trendsAssist in developing performance-based compensation and bonus structuresHelp reinforce a culture of consistency, professionalism, and ownershipLab Operations CoordinationCoordinate workflow between sample preparation, analysis, and reporting teamsEnsure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs)Oversee inventory systems to prevent supply shortagesCoordinate vendor relationships and equipment service schedulingQualificationsPreferred3+ years of experience in operations management, office management, or administrative leadershipExperience working in regulated or process-driven environmentsStrong organizational and time management skillsComfortable providing and receiving performance feedbackHigh level of professionalism and discretionBonus Experience (Not Required)Experience in laboratory environments, agriculture, or compliance-driven industriesCompensation & BenefitsSalary: $50,000 – $65,000 per year (depending on experience)Performance-based bonus opportunitiesRelocation assistance may be considered for the right candidateScheduleFull-timeMonday – FridayTypical hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (some flexibility possible)Why This Role MattersThis role is critical to building the operational structure that allows our lab to grow efficiently. The Operations & Administrative Manager will help create systems, maintain compliance, and support team accountability so that the Lab Director can focus on innovation and strategic growth.#hc227743