Crop Specialist - Prairieland FS - Houstonia, MO

At Prairieland FS, you have the opportunity to make an immediate impact. Working with the industry's top professionals, you'll develop new expertise through varied job experiences and company-sponsored training programs. And you'll be recognized and rewarded for your contributions. Plus, FS believes in attracting and retaining diverse talent. You can contribute your unique experiences and background to build a community that fosters mutual respect and meaningful relationships.

REPORTS TO: Agronomy Manager                                                                                                   STATUS: Exempt

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Assumes responsibility for developing customers through effective marketing of crop inputs, such as fertilizer, crop protection pesticides, seed products, service income, technical services, and ag-finance programs, to maximize profitable sales.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Implements marketing plans and develops strategies that generate profitable sales in the assigned territory.
• Utilizes target marketing and professional sales techniques, including the FS sales interview road map, cropping programs, emphasis on appropriate features and benefits, and a contact management system when calling on patrons and prospects.
• Develops territory and competitive analysis to maintain current knowledge of the marketplace and the competition.
• Provides value-added agronomic products, services, and recommendations to patrons and prospects.  Schedules product delivery and application to patron locations. Conducts regular patron meetings on product and technical information.
• Provides customer service using soil testing, crop scouting, and other programs to follow up on customer complaints and seek a reasonable “win/win” resolution.
• Ensures customers’ creditworthiness, quotes prices and credit terms, and prepares sales contracts for orders obtained.
• Promotes using credit programs as a sales tool and helps provide the required information to establish credit.
• Ensures field signs are displayed on all customers’ fields to promote FS products.
• Responsible for completing and updating profile information sheets on all key accounts and targeted prospects.
• Promotes company credit policy with customers.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Follows GROWMARK’s Code of Conduct and Corporate Compliance Program, Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA, and DOT policies and procedures as they apply.
• Follows Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA, and DOT policies and procedures as they apply.
• Responsible for maintaining the assigned vehicle according to company standards.
• Responsible for maintaining company equipment according to company standards.
• Comply with the uniform policy and uphold a professional appearance.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

• Degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of crop physiology, soil science, pest control, and nutrient management.
• Experience with agricultural technology and precision farming tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and agronomy software.
• Basic understanding of agronomic principles and practices.
• Experience in fieldwork and data collection is preferred.
• Physical ability to perform fieldwork and operate equipment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make recommendations.

Functional Competencies

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a professional demeanor.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with teammates at all levels.
• Ability to identify and address issues in a proactive manner.
• Strong customer service skills, with the ability to interact professionally with customers and teammates.

• High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information.

Core Competencies

Demonstrated core competencies, including business knowledge, collaboration, communication, customer focus, decision-making, and skill development.

Other Requirements

• Obtain a valid CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with required endorsements (e.g., HazMat, Tanker) within six months of employment and maintain a clean driving record.
• All required federal and state pesticide licenses within the first six months of employment.
• Follow safety and compliance standards to help ensure their well-being and the safety of others.
• Ability to work hours other than those considered normal at various times throughout the year to meet deadlines and demands.
• The role may require occasional travel to other company locations or industry events, with the ability to travel independently and stay overnight as needed.
• Ability and willingness to participate in required training, including education on GROWMARK’s policies and procedures and additional training related to the position’s requirements.

Physical Demands

Lifting/Carrying                                    Frequency                             Pushing/Pulling                                    Frequency

Under 10 lbs.                                        Frequently                            Under 10 lbs.                                        Frequently

11-20 lbs.                                               Frequently                            11-20 lbs.                                               Frequently

21-50 lbs.                                               Frequently                            21-50 lbs.                                               Frequently

51-100 lbs.                                            Occasionally                          51-100 lbs.                                            Occasionally

Over 100 lbs.                                         Not Applicable                     Over 100 lbs.                                         Not Applicable

Twisting/Turning                                 Frequency                             Driving                                                   Frequency

Bend                                                       Frequently                            Automatic Trans                                  Not Applicable

Climb                                                      Frequently                            Standard Trans                                     Frequently

Crawl                                                      Frequently

Kneel                                                      Frequently                            Elements                                               Frequency

Reach Outward                                    Frequently                            Exposure to Cold                                  Frequently

Reach Over Head                                 Frequently                            Exposure to Heat                                 Frequently

Reach Over Shoulder                          Frequently                            Exposure to dust, dirt, debris            Frequently

Sit                                                            Frequently                            Exposure to chemicals                        Frequently

Squat                                                      Frequently                            Exposure to high noise levels            Frequently

Stand                                                      Frequently                            Working from heights                         Frequently

Walk-Normal Surfaces                        Frequently

Walk-Slippery Surfaces                       Frequently                            Other

Walk-Uneven Surfaces                       Frequently                            Keyboard/Ten Key                               Frequently

                                                                                                                Fine Dexterity                                       Frequently

                                                                                                                Handling (grasping, holding)              Frequently

                                                                                                                Repetitive Motion – Hands                Frequently

                                                                                                                Repetitive Motion – Feet                   Frequently

EMPLOYEE MISSION STATEMENT

Prairieland FS, Inc. strives to provide a Total Rewards package that delivers exceptional pay for exceptional performance, recognizes your dedication to our mission, and helps us attract and retain the highest caliber of talent. 

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Issue Date: 1/1/2025

Job Title: Crop Specialist