AGRONOMIST

Alaska Mill and Feed•Anchorage, AK

1h•$75,000 - $100,000

About The Position

As a farmer-owned cooperative, Skagit Farmers Supply’s Alaska division, Alaska Mill and Feed, provides farmers, homeowners, businesses, families and communities across the state with services through agronomy, erosion control, animal feed, deicing products, retail and wholesale operations. The Agronomy division primarily serves the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, Kenai Peninsula, Fairbanks North Star Borough and the Delta Junction area, which is a resilient and distinctive agricultural community. Over 40 different crops are grown, including potatoes, barley, oats, hay, cabbage, root vegetables, native grass seed, and specialty small grains uniquely suited to Alaska's long summer daylight hours. The company specializes in conventional fertilizer blends, turf & ornamental management materials, farm seed and Ag services, supporting agriculture through its primary plant in Anchorage with custom blending capabilities for dry fertilizer and native grass seed blends. They utilize a wide variety of equipment and technology to improve workflow and increase efficiencies for growers, crop consultants, farm staff, precision specialists, contractors and operation managers, which is essential in a state where operations may span remote terrain and compressed growing seasons.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Possess a valid driver license and maintain a safe driving record
Proficiency operating and navigating Microsoft Windows and Office
Demonstrate familiarity with business reports and related mathematics
Commitment to excellence and high standards especially regarding customer service
Strong organizational, planning, problem-solving, and analytical skills
Proven track record of being dependable and reliable
Must pass pre-employment drug screen as a condition of employment

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agronomy, ag econ, ag business, ag ed, ag engineering, soil or weed science, or equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge and skills
1 - 3 years of related professional experience
Experience in turf and ornamental management, including but not limited to greenhouses, golf courses, nurseries, landscaping, etc.
Possess Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) and Alaska-registered pesticide applicator certifications or obtain them within the first year of employment

Responsibilities

Advise growers/customers in current best management practices pertinent to their specific operations
Advise contractors and hydroseeding operations of native and turf seed species for unique Alaskan applications
Formulate specific Alaska based seed blends and mulch across various elevations, terrain and unique microclimates
Advise and give recommendations across different erosion control products and applications
Work independently while developing and implementing short- and long-term plans aimed at increasing agronomy business volume
Function and communicate smoothly as part of a larger team working to provide essential products and services in a timely manner
Be willing and able to learn and maintain a high level of technical expertise
Coordinate with fertilizer and chemical applicators to assure effective use of manpower, time, and equipment
Ensure that relevant federal and state regulations are followed
Exhibit an ability to receive feedback, adapt to new processes and continuously develop skills
Demonstrate the ability to collaborate, communicate well and effectively relay information with an emphasis on developing positive professional relationships
Practice punctual and reliable attendance
Perform other duties as assigned