Agronomy Associate - Southern FS, Inc. - Marion, 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.

Salary range:  $40,000 - $45,000

DEPARTMENT:      Crops Department                                       

JOB TITLE:  Agronomy Associate             

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Under the direction of Agronomy Manager, support sales in the assigned territory through counter service, seed treatment, & professional scouting service. Promote a positive attitude and be supportive of the team concept.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Helps with competitive analysis to maintain a current knowledge of the marketplace and the competition.

Supports grower meetings in assigned area. Provides follow up on customer complaints, and seeks a reasonable “win/win” resolution.

Responsible for the maintenance and appearance of equipment and facilities.

Promotes the use of the company’s Credit programs as a sales tool and helps provide the required information to establish credit.

Attain a CDL license with HazMat endorsement

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

Adheres to the company Uniform Policy, and maintains the appropriate professional image.

Ensures appropriate image of Southern FS is displayed and promoted.

Adheres to the company environmental health and safety policies and training.

Attend applicator and other training meetings as requested.

Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

Normally requires a college degree in agriculture, marketing, or other business related discipline and sale/marketing experience to demonstrate the ability to generate profitable sales in the assigned territory.

Work towards obtaining the Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) certification.

Functional Skills

Understanding of all agronomic product lines along with sales ability/persuasiveness, face-to-face selling skills, assertiveness, tenacity/persistence, resilience, competitive adeptness, inventory development and management, credit worthiness, and product proficiency.

Proven team building skills and the ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.

Proven professional communication, persuasion, presentation, and customer service skills.

Demonstrated planning, organization, time management, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to use the computer to enhance business processes.

Core Skills

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

     Other Requirements

Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and have the ability to travel independently and overnight as needed.

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.