Precision Agronomy & Operations Specialist - Gold Star FS - Atkinson, IL

The FS brand represents a standard of excellence for agricultural and energy-related products. It's the people who represent the FS brand that set it apart. As local cooperatives, FS Companies believe it is their responsibility to ensure that our earth, our communities, and businesses perform together, sustainably. FS Companies are committed to ensuring the continued profitability for the company, their owners, and their customers, while enacting to help the environment and greater good.

DEPARTMENT: Crops                                                                             

REPORTS TO: Plant Manager/Precision Sales Manager   

SALARY: $17-23/hr                                                            STATUS: Non-Exempt

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

A dual-focused position designed for agricultural graduates and professionals looking to build a comprehensive career in the ag retail business. This role bridges the gap between precision agronomy and hands-on fieldwork. The individual will work under the supervision of management to assist with precision data, sales strategies, customer service, and the direct operation and maintenance of field application equipment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Precision Agronomy & Technology:

• Learn and become proficient using GIS platforms (FieldAIytics), variable rate placement programs (Climate FieldView), and planning/billing software (Agvance).
• Manage, maintain, and analyze customer field data (soil, planting, harvest, and inseason applications) to generate seasonal reports.
• Create Variable Rate Fertilizer recommendations and Variable Rate Planting prescriptions.
• Utilize target marketing and professional sales techniques, including the FS sales interview roadmap, to assist Crops Specialists in developing territory strategies.
• Crop Scouting & Customer Service
• Provide exceptional customer service by utilizing soil testing, crop scouting, and other agronomic programs.
• Scout customer fields to diagnose issues and recommend tailored herbicide, fungicide, and insecticide applications.
• Attend trainings, webinars, and schools to maintain expert-level knowledge of precision technology, seed, chemicals, and fertilizers.

Operations & Custom Application:

• Operate and maintain field agronomy machines and custom application equipment for maximum throughput and longevity.
• Assist in scheduling, sorting, organizing, and delivering product and seed orders to patron locations.
• Mix, blend, and load crop protection products, including creating application blend tickets in Agvance.
• Deliver Ammonia Tanks to custom applicators and farmer-pulled toolbars; assist  in the chemical loading bay and seed treating room.
• Maintain accurate weekly seed inventory, place seed company signs, and complete weekly activity reports.

Education & Experience:

• Normally requires at least a 2-year college degree in agronomy (or related field) OR 2+ years of sales/marketing/applicator experience demonstrating strong agricultural knowledge.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain and maintain a Valid Driver's License with a good driving record, a CDL with Hazmat endorsement, and a Commercial Applicator's License.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 70 lbs, travel independently (including overnight stays as needed), and work extended/flexible hours to meet seasonal demands.
• Proven professional communication, math proficiency (computing rates, ratios, percentages, and application blending metrics), and the ability to work independently or in a team-oriented environment.
• Willingness to obtain CCA (Certified Crop Adviser) certification (trainings and classes provided by the company).

In addition to competitive pay, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of our employees. Benefits may include retirement, health and wellness, paid time off, supplemental or incidental coverage, and more.

Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law.  In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.