AGRONOMY ASSISTANT OPERATIONS MANAGER

CENTRA SOTA COOPERATIVE•Cokato, MN

9d•$57,473 - $79,026•Onsite

About The Position

The Agronomy Assistant Operations Manager assists with managing and coordinating the agronomy operations and staff at the Cokato location. The role calls for flexibility, coachability, a positive attitude, self-direction, independent judgment, and the ability to manage multiple tasks while ensuring excellent customer service. The assistant manager demonstrates leadership and identifies ways to improve operational effectiveness and efficiency. The position supports staffing, employee development, daily work planning, equipment dispatch and deliveries, inventory, product handling, manufacturing and mixing quality, equipment maintenance, facility upkeep, safety, and customer service. It also involves operating equipment, driving trucks, and performing miscellaneous shop work. The employee must comply with company policies, driver qualification requirements, and the Drug and Alcohol Policy. Work involves frequent standing and walking, regular lifting or moving of up to 60 pounds, and exposure to machinery, dust, hazardous materials or fumes, adverse weather, elevated and confined spaces, and varying noise levels. Seasonal extended hours may be required. Personal protective equipment and, in some environments, hearing protection are required.

Requirements

A two-year college degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Two years of prior experience in a related setting, with a demonstrated progressive track record.
Skill in operating all equipment at the location.
Strong teamwork, leadership, and listening skills, and the ability to inspire respect and trust.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively with staff, customers, and other business partners.
Commitment to high standards in customer service, problem solving, and managing difficult situations.
Ability to remain flexible in a rapidly changing environment.
Resourcefulness, self-direction, and sound independent and ethical decision-making.
Strong organization skills, including attention to detail, multitasking, planning, and prioritizing.
Results-oriented, accurate, and thorough, with a commitment to accountability.
Understanding of and ability to work with basic business concepts, including budgets, profit margins, and revenue.
Strong technical competency and interest in staying current with precision technology.
Strong computer skills and ability to learn operational computer programs.
Compliance with current driver qualification requirements and the company's Drug and Alcohol Policy.
Ability to tolerate and endure extended seasonal hours and remain alert to meet deadlines.
Ability to stand and walk for long periods; use hands and fingers to reach or handle; and talk or hear.
Ability to occasionally climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch, and regularly lift or move up to 60 pounds.
Ability to meet the job's vision requirements for close-up and distant work.
Ability to routinely use a computer and cell phone.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in an agricultural-related program.
Applicator's license.
Class A CDL.
Understanding of service and product knowledge in one or more areas such as agronomy fertilizers, chemicals, application equipment, or farming techniques.
Experience with AgVance or similar software.

Responsibilities

Assist with recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and employee relations, coordinating with HR when appropriate.
Help train new hires and provide ongoing education, including product knowledge, for employees.
Assist the manager with setting staff criteria, creating daily work plans and production goals, and preparing employee schedules.
Coach, develop, and evaluate staff based on performance metrics, using the Check-In process.
Use current tools and technology for equipment dispatch and deliveries.
Operate equipment, drive trucks, and perform miscellaneous shop work.
Assist with managing and maintaining accurate inventory and proper product handling.
Maintain quality manufacturing and mixing to assure quality standards.
Maintain safe, clean, and neat equipment, warehouses, and facilities.
Provide superior customer service and resolve complaints promptly and appropriately while maintaining open communication with sales staff and operators.
Enforce regular equipment maintenance plans and procedures.
Model and teach safe behavior and enforce safety policies.
Observe and enforce company policies.
Demonstrate a strong work ethic, ownership, commitment to doing what is right, passion for agriculture, and respect for others.
Perform other duties as assigned.