Grain Originator - Western Grain Marketing - Stronghurst, IL

GROWMARK, Inc. • Stronghurst, IL

9d • $55,000 - $72,500 • Onsite

About The Position

This position partners closely with the Grain Origination Manager to assist in the efficient daily operation of the branch offices, including grain origination, accurate accounting for all inbound/outbound grain activity, customer grain settlement, developing customer relationships, and providing a superior level of customer service.

Requirements

• Normally requires a college degree, preferably in Ag Economics, Ag Marketing, or Agri-Business.
• Proven computer skills and the ability to use the computer to enhance business processes.
• Ability to build professional relationships and partnerships, assess business opportunities, and negotiate appropriate agreements.
• Working knowledge of the agriculture industry, including but not limited to grain markets, futures, options, and strategies to promote competitiveness and profitability preferred.
• Knowledge of crop insurance/government programs.
• Understanding and experience with agricultural marketing-related areas, including marketing strategy, grain risk management, market information, conditions and trends, price strategy, branding promotions, industry relations, policies and procedures, and compliance, along with planning, budgeting, and communications.
• Knowledge of government (OSHA, State, Federal, etc.) regulations concerning the handling and storage of grain.
• Proven leadership skills and the ability to achieve results through others.
• Demonstrate core competencies, including business knowledge, collaboration, communication, customer focus, decision-making, and skill development.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a professional demeanor.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with teammates at all levels.
• Ability to identify and address issues in a proactive manner.
• Strong customer service skills, with the ability to interact professionally with customers and teammates.
• High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
• Series III License (or ability to obtain one)
• Follow safety and compliance standards to help ensure their well-being and the safety of others.
• Ability to work hours other than those considered normal at various times throughout the year to meet deadlines and demands.
• The role may require occasional travel to other company locations or industry events, with the ability to travel independently and stay overnight as needed.
• Ability and willingness to participate in required training, including education on GROWMARK’s policies and procedures and additional training related to the position’s requirements.

Responsibilities

• Use a Customer Relationship Management system to manage customer contacts, profiles, opportunities, and other pertinent business details.
• Build and maintain relationships with a wide range of customers and continue to look for opportunities in the local area to expand the business.
• Make farm visits to current customers and prospective customers.
• Monitors competitor bids and selects the best option(s) for patrons. Will be able to quote current and deferred prices to customers for various markets, work with our Merchandisers to determine how to define and leverage those markets, and input grain contracts according to local policy.
• Monitor Delayed Price contracts and all location contracts for signature status.
• Have thorough knowledge of grain contracts available and be aware of marketing options/resources for customers.
• Settle grain contracts and write grain checks to customers.
• Purchase grain from patrons and report purchases on the website reporting page.
• Responsible for accurate grain accounting and subsequent reporting.
• Responsible for operating grain scales and computer systems and weighing inbound and outbound truck shipments.
• Responsible for the completeness and accuracy of all sales and scale tickets at the location.
• Responsible for testing grain for test weight and moisture with a moisture meter, checking for FM using a gram scale, checking for damage, and properly recording data into the computer system.
• Process and reconcile grain settlements, contracts, and invoices.
• Work closely with elevator, and logistics teams to confirm shipments and pricing.
• Communicates daily with location Elevator Superintendents on grain loading and unloading plans.
• Supervise and instruct part-time help during the harvest period.
• Follows GROWMARK’s Code of Conduct and Corporate Compliance Program, Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA, and DOT policies and procedures as they apply.
• Follows Environmental Health and Safety, OSHA, and DOT policies and procedures as they apply.
• Responsible for maintaining company equipment according to company standards.
• Comply with the uniform policy and uphold a professional appearance.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Insurance – Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Financial & Savings – 401K Matching, Pension Company-Funded, FSA & HSA
• Voluntary and Miscellaneous Benefits – Accident, Air Evac, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Identity Theft Protection, Life, Short/Long-Term Disability
• Vacation and More – Paid Time Off (PTO), Holiday Pay, Uniform Program, Discounts, Teamwork, Advancements/Service, Retirement Recognition

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level