Operations Specialist I - Prairieland FS, Inc. - Prentice, IL

Growmark - Prentice, IL

Part-time,Full-time - Entry Level

Prentice, IL

Building Material and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers

About the position

At Prairieland FS, Inc., the Operations Specialist I plays a crucial role in overseeing and optimizing various aspects of agricultural production and operations. This position is designed for individuals who are eager to make an immediate impact while working alongside industry professionals. Under the direction of the Location Manager, the Operations Specialist I is responsible for delivering products, communicating sales leads, custom applying fertilizers, crop protection products, or ag lime, inspecting fields, and maintaining or repairing equipment as needed. The role also involves assisting in the development and implementation of plans that maximize location profitability. The Operations Specialist I will coordinate farming activities, manage resources, ensure compliance with agricultural standards, and implement best practices to maximize efficiency and productivity. This includes providing leadership to both full-time and part-time employees, blending products according to recommended rates, and maintaining accurate records of farming activities. The specialist will also monitor crop health, implement pest and disease control strategies, and ensure the proper maintenance and operation of agricultural equipment and facilities. In addition to these responsibilities, the Operations Specialist I will manage inventory levels of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs, coordinate procurement and logistics, and optimize the use of labor and resources to improve operational efficiency. The role requires staying updated on industry trends and advancements in agricultural technology, conducting research to identify innovative methods for improving crop yield and soil health, and training employees on best practices and safety protocols. The Operations Specialist I will also develop long-term strategies for crop rotation, soil health, and sustainability, while fostering a positive work environment and building relationships with customers and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Deliver products and communicate sales leads.
• Custom apply fertilizers, crop protection products, or ag lime.
• Inspect fields and maintain or repair equipment as needed.
• Assist in the development and implementation of plans to maximize location profitability.
• Provide leadership to both full-time and part-time assigned employees.
• Blend products according to recommended rates and procedures.
• Manage inventory control and turn in application records daily.
• Order products, control inventory, and manage shipping/receiving of products.
• Schedule product delivery and application.
• Maintain the appearance and functionality of assigned equipment and facilities.
• Set up material handling, blending, storage, transport, and application equipment.
• Apply crop production inputs to fields according to recommended rates and procedures.
• Record application data according to regulations and standards.
• Walk fields to scout for weeds, insects, or disease.
• Monitor crop health and implement pest and disease control strategies.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations.
• Implement quality control measures to maintain high production standards.
• Maintain accurate records of farming activities and compliance documentation.
• Assist in budgeting and financial planning for agricultural operations.
• Monitor expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare financial reports and analyze data for decision-making.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in agricultural technology.
• Conduct research to improve crop yield and soil health.
• Train employees on best practices and safety protocols.
• Foster a positive work environment through effective leadership.
• Develop long-term strategies for crop rotation and sustainability.
• Collaborate with other departments to align operations with organizational goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers and suppliers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agribusiness, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in agricultural operations or farm management.
• Strong understanding of crop production practices and soil health management.
• Proficiency in agricultural software and technology.
• Proven professional communication, persuasion, and customer service skills.
• Mechanical aptitude for diagnosing and repairing equipment.
• Demonstrated time management, leadership, and team-building skills.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced agricultural technologies.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices.
• Familiarity with financial analysis in agricultural settings.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on performance.
• Company-sponsored training programs.
• Opportunities for career advancement.
• Diverse and inclusive work environment.