Grain Originator - Topflight Grain Cooperative - Lincoln, 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.
Grain Originator / Branch Manager
Salary Range: $55,000-$75,000
About the Role
Topflight Grain is seeking motivated, relationship-focused individuals to join our team as a Grain Originator / Branch Manager. This role combines customer service, grain merchandising support, grain accounting, and daily facility operations to help serve our producers and local communities.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys building long-term relationships with farmers, working in agriculture, and being part of a fast-paced team environment. The successful candidate will play an important role in supporting customer grain marketing needs while ensuring efficient and accurate grain handling and settlement operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective customers
- Provide excellent customer service and timely communication to patrons
- Maintain current grain market knowledge and communicate market information to customers
- Assist customers with grain contracts and available marketing options
- Purchase grain from patrons and maintain accurate contract documentation
- Prepare grain settlements and customer payments
- Operate grain scales and grain accounting systems
- Accurately process inbound and outbound grain tickets
- Test grain for moisture, test weight, foreign material, and damage
- Coordinate grain logistics and trucking activities with operations personnel
- Communicate daily with Elevator Superintendents and Operations Management regarding grain movement plans
- Monitor delayed price contracts and contract signature status
- Assist in resolving customer concerns professionally and promptly
- Supervise and assist seasonal harvest employees
- Promote and maintain a safe work environment for employees, customers, and vendors
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for individuals who:
- Enjoy working directly with producers and customers
- Take pride in accuracy and attention to detail
- Communicate professionally and respectfully
- Thrive in a team-oriented agricultural environment
- Demonstrate reliability, initiative, and strong work ethic
Qualifications
- Agriculture-related education or experience preferred
- Knowledge of the grain industry and grain handling practices preferred
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
- Basic computer proficiency required, including Microsoft Office
- Experience with grain accounting or scale systems such as Agris or OneWeigh preferred
- Valid Class D driver’s license required
Work Environment & Schedule
- Primarily office-based with regular interaction in grain handling environments
- Exposure to grain dust and seasonal harvest noise
- Monday–Friday schedule with extended hours, weekends, holidays, and overtime during harvest seasons as needed
Physical Requirements
- Frequent standing, walking, sitting, and handling/fingering activities
- Occasional climbing, bending, kneeling, and driving
Equal Opportunity Employer
Topflight Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment is considered at-will.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Springfield