Posted: 24/04/2025
Closing Date: 11/05/2025
Job Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Wylarah Station
Job Category: Agriculture, Nature & Animal
We’re on the lookout for an experienced Operations Manager to lead day-to-day activities at Wylarah Station (13km from Surat QLD), home to around 3,500 head of Wagyu stud cattle and over 5,800 hectares of dryland and irrigated farming. As a key property in AACo’s Wagyu breeding program, Wylarah also supports backgrounding cattle and growing high-quality feed to deliver premium product outcomes.
Who we are:
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.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience leading agricultural teams, ideally in station or farm management roles.
• A strong safety mindset, with working knowledge of WHS principles in an agricultural setting.
• Extensive livestock and farming expertise, including pasture management, water systems, and animal health.
• Experience in stud breeding programs (AI, embryo transfer, or OPU) and modern farming systems (GPS, irrigation) highly regarded.
• A confident communicator with the ability to engage across levels, drive performance, and build team culture.
• Competence in planning tools and digital systems such as StockMate, Agworld, and Microsoft Office.

THE ROLE

As Operations Manager, you’ll work closely with the Station Manager to lead the safe, effective, and efficient running of Wylarah’s livestock and farming operations. You’ll bring structure and energy to daily workflows, coach teams, and ensure plans are delivered to a high standard.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead safety-first operations across livestock and farming, embedding strong WHS practices and a culture of accountability.
• Coach and develop teams, including the Leading Hand and Farm Operations Manager, fostering capability, engagement, and performance.
• Plan and coordinate daily and seasonal programs, ensuring alignment with operational goals, staffing rosters, and resource availability.
• Deliver hands-on leadership, supporting the team in the yards, paddocks, and fields to keep things moving and improve practices.
• Support budget and resource planning, working with the Station Manager to track progress, solve problems, and hit targets.
• Step into leadership of the station when required, maintaining continuity and communication across the team and broader business.