Crop Specialist - M&M Service Company - Marine, 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.

JOB TITLE: Crop Specialist

LOCATION: Marine

DEPARTMENT: Agronomy                                                                  

REPORTS TO:  Agronomy Manager      

STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: $65,000-$100,000 based on experience                                                                                                        

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Responsible for developing and growing customer relationships through effective marketing and sales of crop inputs—including fertilizer, crop protection products, seed, service‑based income, technical services, precision technology, and ag‑finance programs—to maximize profitable sales.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Implement marketing plans and develop sales strategies that generate profitable sales in the assigned territory.
• Apply target marketing and professional sales techniques, including the FS sales interview road map, cropping programs, emphasis of appropriate features and benefits, and contact management system when calling on patrons and prospects.
• Conduct territory and competitive analysis to maintain current knowledge of market trends, customer needs, and competitor activity.
• Deliver value‑added agronomic products, services, and recommendations. Coordinate product delivery and application, and lead customer meetings focused on product and technical information.
• Provide responsive customer service through soil testing, crop scouting, and other agronomic programs. Addressing customer concerns promptly and work toward reasonable, win‑win resolutions.
• Evaluate customer creditworthiness, quote prices and terms, prepare sales contracts, and promote credit programs as a sales tool.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Maintain assigned vehicle to company standards, follow uniform policy, and uphold a professional image.
• Ensure field signs are properly displayed to promote brand visibility.
• Complete and maintain profile information sheets for key accounts and targeted prospects.
• Collect payment for all assigned product sales in accordance with company credit policy.
• Maintain required technical and sales certifications and participate in ongoing training.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in agriculture, marketing, business, or related field, or equivalent experience demonstrating strong knowledge of production agriculture.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required driver’s license (including CDL if applicable) and a satisfactory driving record. Daily travel within the trade area with occasional overnight stays.
• Ability to obtain and maintain professional agronomy certifications (CCA, CCS).
• Willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to extreme weather conditions including heat, cold, and precipitation.
• Exposure to noisy environments, dust, fumes, chemicals, and electrical hazards with proper safety protocols.
• May require working at varying heights.
• Must be able to lift and carry 50+ pounds.

We are dedicated to supporting the long-term financial well-being of our employees through a fully funded pension, a cornerstone benefit that ensures security for the future. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a variety of supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, disability, hospital indemnity, and identity theft protection. To promote a healthy work-life balance, employees enjoy generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays, giving you time to recharge and focus on what matters most. Additionally, our 401(k) plan with company matching helps you plan for retirement, while our free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports your overall well-being. Whether you're starting your career, balancing family life, or planning for retirement, our company is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that meets your needs at every stage. 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.