Senior IT Specialist

Senior IT Specialist Location:

Pipestone, MN 56164

Company:

Hord Farms West LLP (part of Hord Family Farms) Are you an accomplished IT professional looking for a unique opportunity to apply advanced technical and leadership skills in a dynamic agricultural environment? We're seeking a Senior IT Specialist who thrives on solving complex problems, mentoring others, and working hands-on across farm sites. Who We Are The Hord family is in its 5th generation of family farming, with over 100 years of farming heritage. Headquartered in North Central Ohio and with satellite locations in Pennsylvania and Minnesota, Hord Farms is a progressive pig, cow, and grain operation committed to raising animals with care while utilizing modern technology for efficiency and sustainability.

Important biosecurity note:

Interested applicants must not have contact with pigs outside of those in the Hord herds. A Day in the Life This position typically works 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM Monday through Friday, though evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required for projects, emergencies, or on-call support. You will lead IT system design, implementation, and maintenance (networks, servers, cloud tools, ERP), manage complex projects, troubleshoot advanced hardware/software/cybersecurity issues, develop and audit policies, train/mentor staff, monitor performance, recommend innovations (e.g., IoT for livestock monitoring), and collaborate with vendors. Physical tasks include climbing grain legs/towers for wireless equipment, working in tight/confined spaces in barns, and ensuring seamless technology integration across farm and office settings. Requirements Bachelor's degree in IT, computer science, or related field; 5+ years of progressive IT experience, preferably in agriculture, manufacturing, or operational environments. Extensive proficiency with Windows operating systems (Desktop/Server), Active Directory, and Ethernet networking (TCP/IP, switching, routing). Strong customer service skills with keen sensitivity to team member needs and ability to translate technical concepts clearly. Expertise in troubleshooting complex/undocumented issues, systematic diagnosis, and meticulous documentation.

Demonstrated leadership:

managing projects, motivating teams, mediating conflicts, and effective communication. Comfort working in a physically demanding farm environment—exposure to livestock sights, sounds, and smells; ability to climb grain legs/towers, work in confined crawl spaces, and lift up to 50 lbs. Valid driver's license for travel between farm sites. Impeccable record of reliability, initiative, follow-through, and composure under pressure. What Sets You Apart Advanced experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), ERP systems, PLC/serial controller integration, fiber networking, VLANs, VPNs, SonicWALL firewalls, or similar. Proficiency in scripting/programming (Python, PowerShell) and cybersecurity best practices (Defense in Depth, incident response, 2FA, WPA3). Certifications such as CompTIA Network+/Security+, cloud credentials, or equivalent. Proven skills in creating documentation, conducting end-user training, producing white papers, and staying current with technology trends. Your Rewards Competitive pay based on experience (starting range typically $28-$38 per hour). Comprehensive benefits package including health and life insurance, and an HSA plan. Paid time off, holidays, and personal days. 401(k) with company matching up to 4%. Financial planning assistance and annual bonus potential. Clear opportunities for career advancement in a growing family-owned company.