Technical Agronomist - Northeast
NY, CT, NH, VT, ME, WI, MI, OH, PA, WV, KY, IL, IN, KY, VA (North), TN (East)Company Overview: American Vanguard (AMVAC) is a leading innovator in the agricultural sector, committed to delivering high-quality solutions that enhance crop protection and yield. With a diverse portfolio of companies and brands, we are looking to strengthen our corporate identity and communication strategy on a global scale.
Job Summary: The Technical Agronomist (TA) handles all technical support functions for their geography on behalf of AMVAC. This person works closely with their regional Field Sales Representatives and Regional Business Manager. Management of commercial demonstration plans flow through the TA as do training presentations, localized sales tools and product performance inquiries. The TA works closely with the other technical support personnel outside the local geography as well as the marketing, regulatory and product development groups. The TA and Technical Agronomy Manager work together to ensure the technical focus of the region is in line with the goals and objectives across the company's North America Crop Business. Must reside within the assigned territory.
Key Responsibilities: - Maintain strong technical knowledge of local agronomic practices, new chemistries and other technologies impacting the business for both chemistry and biological solutions
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with Distributor and Retail agronomists, University Extension personnel, consultants and other important influencers in the territory to ensure they are adequately prepared to recommend AMVAC products upon launch and that AMVAC and our products are represented fairly in publications and in live field and industry events
- Develop, execute and supervise appropriate support activities aligned with key initiatives as outlined in the annual TA Goals and Objectives
- Work hand-in-hand with Product Development teammates to ensure testing programs are aligned with current market agronomic practices and that the TEAM is well educated regarding development projects as launch time approaches
- Continue to strengthen the communication between other regional technical support groups and internal functional groups
- Manage technical expenses demonstrating service to sales dollars and maintain product demo budget in line with key regional initiatives
- Design, manage, implement and supervise product demonstration funds and trial plans that are aligned with regional sales and marketing objectives
- Provide regional guidance on complaint handling and assist sales in complaint calls where necessary for agronomic expertise, problem diagnosis and input on resolution
- Develop technical product training presentations, modules, sales collateral, technical sheets and newsletters
- Lead the technical consulting and training discussions with internal and external groups with special attention and focus on new product launches and leading the technical transfer of information to sales teams and key customer groups
- Work with the marketing team to develop training and sales materials
- Carefully review, comment and approve technical, sales, marketing and or advertising communications as assigned
Skills and Experience: - 2+ years' experience in technical support, selling chemical crop protection, seed or agronomy services
- Ability to cover the Eastern Region (Northeast and Northcentral) and support the assigned Sales Reps
NY, CT, NH, VT, ME, WI, MI, OH, PA, WV, KY, IL, IN, KY, VA (North), TN (East) - Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) or equivalent certification desired
- Excellent speaking, writing, and computer skills
- Working knowledge of statistical software
- Capable of designing protocols and research projects that creatively and effectively demonstrate the features and benefits of agronomy inputs and contributor on complex projects
- Proven ability to effectively transfer technically complex information to an audience with more limited technical expertise
- Demonstrated ability to operate effectively under pressure, navigate contentious situations and resolve conflict
- Proven ability to build and sustain strong business relationships with customers and teammates
- Ability to develop and service business relationships with agronomy staff of key retail accounts
- Demonstrated ability to make decisions of a complex nature where independent judgment and creativity are required with and without management review
- Effectively negotiate skills working with customers, teammates and management
- Experience leading projects or special assignment involving work outside the area
- Served as a leader and valuable technical resource to others within the sales organization
- Travel: Anticipated up to 50% of time (company vehicle provided). Able to travel internationally as needed
Education Requirements: - Master's degree required - Agronomy, entomology, plant pathology, weed science or other agricultural related science
- PhD a plus
WHAT WE OFFER: - Industry leading Medical, Dental, and Vision care with low out-of-pocket expenses
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan and Employee Stock Purchasing Plan offered
- Additional benefits include Vacation, Holiday time off as well as a Wellness program
- Company vehicle
- Competitive compensation
American Vanguard is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.