Grain Originator - Western Grain Marketing - Stronghurst, IL

At Western Grain Marketing, 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.

                      Grain Originator

REPORTS TO: Northern Region Manager                                                                                               STATUS: Exempt

PAY RANGE: $55,000 to $72,500 / YEAR

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.

Western Grain Marketing specializes in providing comprehensive grain handling, storage, and marketing solutions for customers.

We are committed to being the leading grain marketing and service company in our area.

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

This position partners closely with the Grain Origination Manager to assist in the efficient daily operation of the branch offices, including grain origination, accurate accounting for all inbound/outbound grain activity, customer grain settlement, developing customer relationships, and providing a superior level of customer service.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Use a Customer Relationship Management system to manage customer contacts, profiles, opportunities, and other pertinent business details.
• Build and maintain relationships with a wide range of customers and continue to look for opportunities in the local area to expand the business.
• Make farm visits to current customers and prospective customers.
• Monitors competitor bids and selects the best option(s) for patrons. Will be able to quote current and deferred prices to customers for various markets, work with our Merchandisers to determine how to define and leverage those markets, and input grain contracts according to local policy.
• Monitor Delayed Price contracts and all location contracts for signature status.
• Have thorough knowledge of grain contracts available and be aware of marketing options/resources for customers.
• Settle grain contracts and write grain checks to customers.
• Purchase grain from patrons and report purchases on the website reporting page.
• Responsible for accurate grain accounting and subsequent reporting.
• Responsible for operating grain scales and computer systems and weighing inbound and outbound truck shipments.
• Responsible for the completeness and accuracy of all sales and scale tickets at the location.
• Responsible for testing grain for test weight and moisture with a moisture meter, checking for FM using a gram scale, checking for damage, and properly recording data into the computer system.
•       Process and reconcile grain settlements, contracts, and invoices.
•       Work closely with elevator, and logistics teams to confirm shipments and pricing.

• Communicates daily with location Elevator Superintendents on grain loading and unloading plans.
• Supervise and instruct part-time help during the harvest period.

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 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

• Normally requires a college degree, preferably in Ag Economics, Ag Marketing, or Agri-Business.
• Proven computer skills and the ability to use the computer to enhance business processes.
• Ability to build professional relationships and partnerships, assess business opportunities, and negotiate appropriate agreements.
• Working knowledge of the agriculture industry, including but not limited to grain markets, futures, options, and strategies to promote competitiveness and profitability preferred.
• Knowledge of crop insurance/government programs.
• Understanding and experience with agricultural marketing-related areas, including marketing strategy, grain risk management, market information, conditions and trends, price strategy, branding promotions, industry relations, policies and procedures, and compliance, along with planning, budgeting, and communications.
• Knowledge of government (OSHA, State, Federal, etc.) regulations concerning the handling and storage of grain.
• Proven leadership skills and the ability to achieve results through others.

Core Competencies

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

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.

Other Requirements

• Must have a valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
• Series III License (or ability to obtain one)
• 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

Insurance – Medical, Dental, and Vision

Financial & Savings – 401K Matching, Pension Company-Funded, FSA & HSA

Voluntary and Miscellaneous Benefits – Accident, Air Evac, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Identity Theft Protection, Life, Short/Long-Term Disability

Vacation and More – Paid Time Off (PTO), Holiday Pay, Uniform Program, Discounts, Teamwork, Advancements/Service, Retirement Recognition    

EMPLOYEE MISSION STATEMENT

Western Grain Marketing 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: 7/7/2026

Job Title: Grain Originator