Custom Applicator

Heritage Cooperative • Beloit, OH

10d

About The Position

The Custom Applicator safely and accurately applies fertilizer, crop protection products, and other agronomic inputs according to customer recommendations, agronomic prescriptions, and applicable regulations. The role involves calculating application rates, operating and calibrating application equipment, and using precision agriculture technology and variable-rate prescription files.

The position also supports equipment and facility maintenance, product receiving and inventory, order fulfillment, documentation, customer communication, safety practices, and regulatory compliance. Work takes place at agricultural facilities, equipment yards, and outdoor field environments, where employees may encounter dust, noise, chemicals, fertilizers, extreme weather, and moving machinery. The position may require extended hours, including evenings and weekends, during peak application seasons.

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: provide superior customer service, uphold high standards of integrity and trust, pursue continuous improvement, and be a good partner.
• Safely and accurately apply liquid and dry fertilizer, crop protection products, and other agronomic inputs according to customer recommendations, agronomic prescriptions, and regulatory requirements.
• Calculate fertilizer and application rates per acre and determine product quantities required for fields and applications.
• Operate, set up, and calibrate custom application equipment, including controllers, flow meters, nozzles, pumps, and spreaders.
• Monitor application speed, pressure, nozzle selection, and equipment performance to ensure accurate product placement and rates.
• Operate and maintain precision agriculture technology, including GPS guidance systems, rate controllers, and mapping software.
• 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; report malfunctions, repairs, and maintenance needs promptly.
• Keep equipment, vehicles, and facilities clean, organized, safe, and environmentally sound.
• 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 for 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 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.
• Help 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 6 months.
• Farm Bureau membership.
• Profit sharing.

What This Job Offers

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