Application Specialist - Prairieland FS - Paloma, IL

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.

Application Specialist

PAY RANGE: $17.50 - $23.50 / hour

Compensation is determined based on your experience and qualifications.

In addition to base pay, you may be eligible for overtime, commission, performance-based increases, and bonuses.

REPORTS TO: Location Manager                                                                                                              STATUS: Non-Exempt

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Under the direction of the Location Manager/Crop Specialist, the Application Specialist is responsible for delivering and precisely applying crop protection input products to the field and communicating sales leads. Strong knowledge of agronomy practices and equipment operation and a commitment to safety and accuracy are essential for success in this position.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Mixes products and applies crop production inputs to fields and growing crops according to recommended rates, procedures, and pesticide labels. Records application data in compliance with regulations and standards, providing timely electronic and paper copies of "as applied" data.
• Maintain, repair, and rebuild company facilities and rolling stock as needed while safely operating and maintaining various agricultural application equipment, including sprayers, spreaders, and other machinery.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on equipment to ensure it operates efficiently and reliably throughout the season.
• Regularly calibrate equipment to ensure accurate crop application rates, adjusting settings based on product requirements and field conditions.
• Maintain detailed records of crop applications, including product types, rates, locations, and weather conditions, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Delivers products to customers according to company standards, increasing potential sales, and accurately applies agricultural crop production input products to fields using specialized equipment, following crop application guidelines and regulations.
• Responsible for inventory management and submitting crop application records daily, ensuring all products are accounted for with an invoice or delivery ticket.
• Set up equipment for material handling, blending, storage, transport, and product application.
• Assess field conditions, including soil type, weather, and crop stage, to determine the optimal timing and method of crop application.
• Follow all safety protocols and best practices to protect yourself, co-workers, and the environment during the crop application process.
• Stay updated on the latest agronomy practices, product advancements, and equipment technologies through ongoing training and development.
• Scout fields as required, following company scouting procedures, and report findings to the Location Manager and Crop Specialist for identification and recommendations.
• Collect soil samples following proper procedures and record the sample information for accurate identification and analysis.
• Reports sales leads to the Location Manager and Crop Specialist.

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.
• Comply with the uniform policy and uphold a professional appearance.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional training or certification in agronomy or agriculture is a plus.
• Experience operating agricultural machinery, particularly sprayers and spreaders, is preferred.
• Knowledge of agronomy practices, crop protection products, and safety regulations is preferred.
• Familiarity with GPS and precision agriculture technology is a plus.

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 

BENEFITS

We offer health, vision and dental insurance, as well as a 401(k) and a pension program.

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: 09/01/2025

Job Title: Application Specialist