Precision Ag Coordinator

Job Description

General Summary

Provides sales support and technical assistance on the implementation and delivery of Southern States Cooperative (SSC) Precision Agriculture Programs at customer farming and production sites. Learns and develops technical knowledge of GPS (Global Navigation Satellite System), GIS (Geographic Information System), crop consulting, field scouting, and data management. May perform designated field operations to build relationships and sales.

Essential Job Functions

Learn and develop technical skills and knowledge of precision ag tools, resources, program administration, fertilization calculation and other formulations. Team with SSC counterparts to develop field scouting and crop consulting techniques.

• Coordinate plans to develop the precision ag program within assigned territory. Regularly communicate with SSC counterparts (sales, corporate office, local facilities) and management to identify potential customer farmers and producers. Assist with marketing precision ag programs.


• Meet with customer farmers and producers to provide information on SSC precision ag services. Utilize effective communication skills to explain the benefits and technical aspects of precision ag tools, data gathering, and delivery directly to the production site. Identify customer priorities, production challenges and goals to use in formulating a customized site plan.


• Effectively utilize GPS and GIS and related tools to map the customer site and integrate grid and contour soil sampling results. Continually monitor soil properties, growth conditions, irrigation, crop stress, yield, and other factors to develop customized production operations plans.


• Implement data management for record keeping. Analyze, interpret, and manage customer data through the use of precision ag systems and databases. Compile data in a timely manner to provide customers with real-time advice and recommendations based on accurate and actionable information.


• Regularly communicate with customers regarding their site operations. Implement nutrient management plans and variable rate application of lime, nutrients, and other crop treatments. Assist customers with resolving issues and concerns. Escalate complex issues to appropriate counterparts and managers.


• Assist with providing precision ag training to SSC team members at local service, coop, and agronomy facilities. Effectively communicate technical information to individuals and small groups.


• Promote the SSC brand and business philosophy in a positive and customer-focused manner throughout the local community and sales region. Participate in local community meetings (grower meetings, local government, and extension meetings) to network, develop business relationships, and promote SSC precision ag programs. Demonstrate professionalism at all times in communication and appearance. Wear approved SSC uniform/attire and operate a neat and well-maintained vehicle.


• Develop awareness of industry trends, improvements, regulations, and updates to SSC products and services. Utilize a variety of resources to meet development planning and continuing education requirements, including: professional organizations, seminars, conferences, training courses, self-study, and on-line tools.


• Perform work safely as to not cause harm to yourself, customers, co-workers, equipment, or inventory. Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required. Operate all equipment according to SSC policy and government regulations. Comply with OSHA regulations, Southern States Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards, work rules and policies.


• Perform all other job functions as assigned.

Requirements

A combination of completed coursework and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Precision Ag Technology, Plant Soil Sciences, Agribusiness, or related field

Experience:Up to one (1) year of experience in the agricultural industry with knowledge of best practices related to farming and crop production. Previous Southern States work experience a plus.

Certification Licensing: Requires valid Driver's License

Requires Certified Crop Advisor (or ability to obtain)

May require Commercial Driver's License

Requirements

• This position requires the safe operation of a motor vehicle to perform essential job functions and mandatory compliance with the SSC motor vehicle safety policy


• Able to learn and develop technical skills for use of precision agriculture tools, equipment, and systems, including GPS and GIS


• Able to learn and develop fertilization calculation and other formulations


• Able to learn and effectively apply knowledge of field scouting and crop consulting


• Able to learn and effectively apply knowledge of farm management and crop production best practices to identify needs and advise customers on customized production operations


• Able to work both independently and as part of a team to execute area precision ag sales


• Able to communicate clearly and professionally


• Able to consistently demonstrate customer-focused interpersonal skills and business savvy


• Able to develop and maintain productive business relationships with area farmers and agricultural community members


• Able to perform data analysis and formulate recommendations with accuracy and attention to detail


• Computer literacy to utilize precision ag data management systems and MS Office products


• Able to effectively multi-task and prioritize


• Able to work extended hours to meet business demands


• Able to meet travel requirements for designated sales territory


• Able to speak, read, write the English language in a proficient manner

Work Environment

Essential job functions are performed in a variety of environments, including on-site at customer sites, SSC local facilities, and an office setting. May regularly work outdoors unprotected from weather conditions and subject to seasonal temperatures and humidity. May require the frequent operation of a SSC motor vehicle for travel purposes. Travel requirements vary based on location and growing season.

Frequent exposure to hazards, including:

• Odors, fumes and hazardous chemicals associated with dry and liquid fertilizers, soil nutrients, crop protectants, fuel, and other agricultural products and equipment


• Dust, dirt, allergens, insects, pests and other factors associated with inspection of farming and crop production sites


• Products, supplies, and tools with sharp edges or containing hazardous materials


• Moving mechanical parts and vehicles, vibrations and electric current


• Noise levels where hearing protection is optional per PPE Plan

Schedule requirements are largely determined by area sales strategy. Ability to travel during adverse weather conditions may be required. Extended hours may be required at various times including peak growing season.

Physical Activities Requirements

Physical activities may vary based on location.

• Continuously bend and stoop; manual dexterity (fingers and hands), handle and utilize repetitive hand motion with products, soil/plant material, and various tools including computers; utilize eye/hand coordination; twist back and neck. Pull, push, lift, carry up to 30 pounds.


• Frequently balance, climb, and crouch; drive motorized vehicles; reach with arms and hands for extended periods; sit for extended periods; stand and walk for extended periods, at times may be on concrete or outdoors on uneven surfaces. Pull, push, lift, carry 30-50 pounds.


• Occasionally kneel and stack. Pull, push, lift, carry over 50 pounds, may be assisted.

Must be able to communicate with customers and counterparts in-person and via telephone regarding the daily business of sales, operations, products, services, and safety. Must be able to maneuver over uneven terrain while inspecting customer farming and production sites. Must be able to utilize vision and touch to diagnose problems and recommend solutions. Must be able to utilize hearing and vision to operate equipment including a motor vehicle. Specific vision abilities required by this position include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Tools Equipment

Specialized tools and systems related to precision agriculture, including GPS, GIS, and soil sampling tools. Seed, fertilizer, crop protectant, soil nutrients, and other tools, equipment and products as determined by specific location requirements. SSC passenger motor vehicle, telephone, hand held radio, computer, printer, scanner, copier, fax machine, writing instrument, reports, logs, spreadsheets. Commercial motor vehicle use may be required.

Southern States Cooperative is an EqualOpportunity Employer and does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, family medical history or genetic information, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws, or regulations.