Job Summary
The Harvest Coordinator leads harvest operations for Rosebud Farm Company as it builds Seven Fires Harvest & Processing. This position works closely with the Bison Range Coordinator to carry out safe, humane, and respectful buffalo harvests on the Wolakota Buffalo Range, leads the mobile harvest truck work, and trains staff in harvest and food safety. The Harvest Coordinator also plays a vital role in leading Seven Fires through the completion of the processing center and into full operation, aligned with our responsibility to the land, the buffalo, and the Oyate.
The ideal candidate is an experienced, reliable hand at harvest and meat handling, with strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. They are prepared to lead hands-on harvest work in all conditions, train and guide a crew, and help build a new processing business while honoring the buffalo and Lakota lifeways.
Scope of Responsibility
Harvest Operations
Plan and schedule buffalo harvests with the Bison Range Coordinator, in line with herd plans and range conditions.
Lead field harvests on the Wolakota Buffalo Range with a focus on safety, respect, and humane handling.
Schedule and carry out custom harvests for outside customers.
Honor Lakota cultural practices at harvest and save hides, heads, or other parts for cultural use when requested.
Mobile Harvest Unit & Equipment
Lead the mobile harvest truck work, including setup, operation, and break-down at each site.
Clean and sanitize the unit and all equipment before and after every harvest.
Maintain the truck, cooler, generator, hoist, knives, and other harvest equipment, and report repairs.
Keep the unit stocked with supplies and protective gear.
Food Safety & Inspection
Make sure carcasses are handled, cooled, tagged, and stored correctly.
Follow all food safety and sanitation plans, including HACCP and sanitation procedures.
Work with state meat inspection staff and make sure every harvest meets inspection requirements.
Handle byproducts and waste correctly and safely.
Training & Team Leadership
Train staff in safe and humane harvest, carcass handling, knife and firearm safety, and sanitation.
Lead and direct harvest crews and ensure safety during all harvest work.
Track crew hours and task completion and report to the General Manager.
Help with hiring and onboarding new harvest and processing staff.
Processing Center Development
Help lead Seven Fires through the completion of the processing center.
Work with the General Manager, contractors, and vendors on building, equipment, and startup needs.
Help set up equipment, workflow, food safety plans, and inspection requirements for opening the center.
Help plan staffing, schedules, and services as the center begins operation.
Administrative & Reporting
Keep accurate harvest records, including animal ID, dates, carcass weights, and inspection paperwork.
Keep sanitation, temperature, and equipment maintenance logs.
Participate in monthly budget reviews and submit weekly receipts for operational expenses.
Coordinate with the General Manager on long-term planning, equipment, and major purchases.
Knowledge and Skills
Minimum 2 years of experience in harvesting, butchering, meat processing, or field dressing buffalo, livestock, or wild game
Safe and experienced with firearms for field harvests
Comfortable working outdoors year-round in remote, rugged prairie conditions
Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work in cold, wet, and bloody conditions
Valid driver's license required
Strong organizational habits, reliability, and attention to detail
Basic computer skills for timekeeping, recordkeeping, and communication
Proven ability to lead and train others and manage multiple priorities
Meat processing plant, mobile harvest, or HACCP experience preferred
Benefits
Work vehicle and tools provided
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
Paid time off (PTO)
Paid training and development opportunities
Training and Certifications
All training needed for required certifications, including food safety and harvest certifications, will be provided by Rosebud Farm Company.
Schedule
This is a full-time position. Harvest days may start early, run long, or fall on weekends depending on weather, herd plans, inspection schedules, and customer needs.
Residency
On-site residency is not required for this position.
Organizational Values
At Rosebud Farm Company and Seven Fires, we expect all team members to embody values that reflect our responsibility to the land, the buffalo, and the Sicangu Oyate:
Community First – Serve our people with humility, purpose, and respect.
Excellence – Uphold the highest standards in safety, care, and food quality.
Cultural Respect – Honor Lakota lifeways and the sacred relationship with the buffalo.
Stewardship – Use every harvest with care and waste nothing we can use.
Responsibility – Be accountable to the mission, to each other, and to future generations.
Pay: $26.00 - $29.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
