Custom Applicator

Heritage Cooperative • Upper Sandusky, OH

8d

About The Position

Heritage Cooperative is seeking a customer-service-driven Custom Applicator to apply agronomic products and support customers, equipment, inventory, and safe operations. The role applies liquid and dry fertilizer, crop protection products, and other inputs according to customer recommendations, agronomic prescriptions, and regulatory requirements. It operates custom application equipment and precision agriculture technology, and supports equipment maintenance, product handling, order fulfillment, documentation, and customer communication.

The position works in agricultural facilities, equipment yards, and outdoor fields. Employees may encounter dust, noise, chemicals, fertilizers, weather extremes, and moving machinery, and must use required personal protective equipment. The work can involve extended hours, including evenings and weekends, during peak application seasons. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required state pesticide applicator licenses and certifications.
• Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to accuracy.
• Valid license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to climb ladders, access equipment platforms, and safely enter and exit machinery.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work outdoors for extended periods.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions and agricultural environments.
• Ability to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends, during peak application seasons.

Nice To Haves

• Agricultural, agronomy, equipment operation, or custom application experience.
• Basic understanding of agronomic principles, fertilizer calculations, and crop production practices.
• Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, precision agriculture technology, and computerized application systems.

Responsibilities

• Represent Heritage Cooperative’s Core Values and provide superior customer service.
• Safely and accurately apply liquid and dry fertilizer, crop protection products, and other agronomic inputs according to customer recommendations, prescriptions, and regulations.
• Calculate fertilizer and application rates per acre and determine the quantity of product needed for each field and application.
• Operate custom application equipment, including setting up and calibrating controllers, flow meters, nozzles, pumps, and spreaders.
• Monitor application speed, pressure, nozzle selection, and equipment performance to ensure accurate product placement and application rates.
• Operate and maintain GPS guidance systems, rate controllers, and mapping software.
• Learn and perform Variable Rate Technology (VRT) file management, including loading, selecting, editing, removing, and saving electronic prescription files.
• Assist with preventative maintenance programs for application equipment, tenders, vehicles, and plant assets.
• Conduct pre-trip, post-trip, and routine equipment inspections; promptly report malfunctions, repairs, and maintenance needs.
• Maintain equipment, vehicles, and facilities in a clean, organized, safe, and environmentally sound condition.
• Operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment to load, unload, and transfer products safely and accurately.
• Assist with receiving fertilizer, chemicals, seed, and other agronomy products using receiving systems and equipment.
• Fulfill customer orders accurately and efficiently while maintaining inventory integrity.
• Complete documentation related to product movement, application records, inventory transactions, and regulatory compliance.
• Communicate with customers, agronomy staff, and management about application schedules, field conditions, and service requirements.
• Represent the cooperative professionally while working on customer farms and properties.
• Follow company safety policies, environmental regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local laws governing agricultural chemical and fertilizer applications.
• Use required personal protective equipment and follow safe product-handling procedures.
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, inspections, and compliance initiatives.
• Develop new business opportunities through prospecting, networking, and referrals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-paid life and AD&D insurance.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation time.
• 401(k) with company match after six months.
• Farm Bureau membership.
• Profit sharing.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED