Agronomy Crop Associate - Ag-Land FS, Inc. - Mt. Pulaski, 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.

About Us

The FS brand represents a standard of excellence in agricultural and energy-related products. What sets FS apart is its people. As local cooperatives, FS Companies believe it is their responsibility to ensure our earth, communities, and businesses perform together sustainably. FS Companies are committed to the continued profitability of the company, our owners, and our customers-while also protecting the environment and serving the greater good.

Purpose and Summary Statement

The Agronomy Sales Associate works alongside the Mt. Pulaski Crop Specialist to maintain and grow the agronomy business. This role provides training and hands-on experience in sales, marketing, agronomic services, and customer relationship management, with the goal of developing into a full Crop Specialist role.

Essential Job Functions

• Develops target marketing plans and trains on professional sales techniques, including the FS sales interview road map, cropping programs, and contact management systems.
• Assists with customer meetings on product and technical information.
• Develops territory and competitive analysis to maintain current knowledge of the marketplace.
• Provides customer service through scheduling deliveries and applications, soil testing, crop scouting, and other agronomy programs.
• Follows up on customer complaints to reach timely and reasonable "win/win" resolutions.
• Assists with day-to-day operations at the plant
• Willingness to learn and take on new challenges
• Attend meetings and training to further your professional career

Other Job Functions

• Maintains assigned company vehicle and projects a professional image in accordance with company policies.
• Ensures field signs are displayed on customer fields to promote FS products.
• Completes and updates profile information sheets on all targeted prospects.
• Collects payments for sales in compliance with company credit policy.
• Develops technical and sales skills in accordance with certification standards.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in agriculture, marketing, or business-related field, or equivalent education and work experience.
• 1-2 years of business or agriculture-related work experience preferred.
• Demonstrated abilities in business knowledge, communication, customer focus, collaboration, and decision-making.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Ability to travel independently within the territory, including occasional overnight travel.
• Ability to work extended hours as business conditions warrant.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) and Commercial Applicator certifications.
• Physical and environmental requirements:
• Lift 51-75 lbs.
• Exposure to extreme weather (hot, cold, wet).
• Exposure to noisy, dusty, or chemical environments (with proper safety measures).
• May be required to work at varying heights.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $50,000 - $70,000 annually, based on experience.
• Benefits: Ag-Land FS, Inc. offers a comprehensive Total Rewards package, including:
• Defined benefit pension plan
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other voluntary benefits
• Health and wellness programs

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.