Registered Apprenticeship - Custom Applicator - AgVantage FS - Northeast IA

DIVISION:       AgVantage FS                                                              JOB CODE:      70C

REPORTS TO:                                                              STATUS:          Non-Exempt                                                                                                                 WC CODE:      

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Apprentices will receive training in the work experience operating commercial sprayer or floater for the purpose of applying crop inputs to producer fields, operating and maintaining single or tandem axle trucks, multi-axle configuration trucks for delivery and/or pick-up of agronomy products and other equipment.

The following are the competency based work processes the apprentice will learn and be able to perform on-the-job. The terms of the occupation is based on the apprentice’s demonstration of the mastery of the competencies as specified and estimated to complete in approximately 2 years.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Blends products according to recommended rates and procedures

Sets up material handling, blending, storage, transport and application equipment for blending and delivery of products 

Performs and records daily safety checks of assigned vehicle(s) and associated equipment by conducting pre-trip inspections, such as checking fuel and oil levels, inspecting tires, lights, and brakes 

Cleans or services machinery to ensure operating efficiency, using water, gasoline, lubricants, or hand tools

Follows the preventative maintenance program and maintains a clean truck to present a professional appearance

Demonstrates knowledge of and the ability to safely operate sprayers, floaters, single or tandem axle trucks and other equipment to meet company and DOT standards

Loads and unloads containers, pallets, or materials and products, safely on/off trucks, trailers, or railcars

Responsible for the inventory control and turns in application records on a daily basis ensuring all product is accounted for with an invoice or delivery ticket on a daily basis

Applies crop production inputs to fields and growing crops according to recommended rates, procedures, and following all pesticide labels within 18 months of employment

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

Responsible for maintaining, repairing, rebuilding, and/or servicing location equipment, vehicles, and structures as needed

Collects/records soil sample and crop scouting information using proper procedures

Follows GROWMARK’s Code of Conduct and Corporate Compliance Program, Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA and DOT policies and procedures, as they apply

Performs all other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS

Normally requires a high school diploma or the equivalent thereof

Satisfactory completion of Related Training Instruction (RTI) throughout the approximate 24 month apprenticeship

• New Hire Orientation and Safety Training
• Principles of Agronomy – AGA 114
• Pesticide Application Certification – AGA 283
• Crop Scouting – AGA 381
• Integrated Crop Management – AGA 375
• Agricultural Fertilizers an Chemicals – AGA 165
• Agronomy Internship II – Credit for on the job work performed through employer

Must have or obtain and maintain a CDL license with required endorsements, a satisfactory driving record and valid medical card.

Must hold and maintain, or have the ability to obtain, all required pesticide or fertilizer applicator licenses or certifications in states where crop production inputs are applied 

Responsible for renewing licenses or certifications as required and reporting status of licenses or certifications to the Apprentice Sponsor

Ability to work extended hours as business conditions warrant.

Demonstrates essential abilities including business knowledge, collaboration, communication, customer focus, decision making and skill development

Occasionally exposed or required to: 

• Extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, etc.)
• Noisy conditions
• Working conditions may include dust, fumes, chemicals, and electrical hazards, requiring utilization of appropriate safety measures
• May be required to work at varying heights
• Lift 51 - 70 lbs.

Ability and willingness to participate in required training that may include education on GROWMARK’s policies and procedures and additional training as it relates to the requirements of the position