Agronomist

CSS Farms is a multi-state agricultural business with a mission of Growing Great Together. We achieve this by leading the way in stewardship and solutions for every field, every load, every day.

At CSS Farms we take great pride in doing the job right and believe our best work is achieved when we work together. Farming is our way of life, we have a deep passion for the land, our families, and our communities. We have a legacy rooted in solving hard problems and tackling new business ventures.

Summary

The Agronomist role contributes directly to the success of CSS Farms by supporting agronomic operations on a large-scale commercial farm growing potatoes.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Improve yield, quality, and efficiency.
• Support commercial crop production through regular scouting and hands-on field work.
  • Monitor and record crop development.
  • Monitor crops for pests including weeds, insects, and diseases.
• Assist with IPM solutions to manage crop pests.
• Assist with fertilizer/chemical management and applications.
  • Assist with writing work orders.
  • Coordinate and oversee custom and in-house applications.
  • Enter and maintain information pertaining to chemical/fertilizer applications.
  • Assist with chemical/fertilizer handling and storage management.
• Monitor soil moisture and assist with scheduling irrigation.
• Sample plant tissue and soil during the growing season for fertility management.
• Oversee soil sampling and assist with pre-season fertilizer recommendations.
• Contribute to quality control on farm operations, i.e. seed handling and cutting, planter spacing accuracy, and irrigation system uniformity, etc.
• Perform test digs to estimate yield and monitor quality.
• Collect samples from fields and potato storages.
• Provide daily supervision of Agronomy Interns, crop scouts, and/or other seasonal employees.
• Perform bruise-free sampling and monitor handling of potatoes.
• Achieve ongoing education/familiarization with crop production methods and practices.
• Facilitate storage management.
• Assist/facilitate with the development and execution of crop management strategies.
• Support research and development efforts.
  • Collect data for crop trials.
• Perform other tasks and responsibilities as needed.

Physical Demands

This position works closely with the land and spends a large amount of time in the field. This includes:

• Walking and working outdoors in the elements.
• Driving across the farm and to the plant facility to move samples and other supplies.
• Regularly lifting objects (such as potato samples) weighing up to 40-50 lbs.

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy or closely related field.
• A private pesticide applicator license or the ability to get one.
• A valid driver s license and the ability to pass vehicle insurance verification.

Desired Qualifications

• Proficiency with computers, Windows, and MS Office programs.
• Excellent organizational skills and appreciation for the value of accurate sampling and reporting.
• Familiarity with irrigated crop production desired.
• Experience operating farm equipment beneficial.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish a plus.

Work Authorization

• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

Compensation/Benefits

• Market competitive salary. $50 - $80K
• Healthcare, Dental and Vision coverage as outlined in the company benefits overview.
• S.A./Flex spending accounts for out-of-pocket medical expenses.
• 401(k) plan options.
• Short Term Disability Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance and Life Insurance.
• Paid time off package.
• Ten paid holidays.
• Gain exposure to full farm agronomy and experience potential for career advancement locally or at other CSS Farm locations.

AAP/EEO Statement

CSS Farms provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, CSS Farms complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

CSS Farms expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status Date posted: 04/30/2024