Agricultural Specialist

CSS Farms, LLC is a multi-state agricultural business that aims to excel in stewardship and solutions for every field. This mission is achieved through leading the way in innovative approaches for crop management, ensuring maximum efficiency and quality.

The Agronomist role at CSS Farms contributes significantly to the company's success by supporting agronomic operations on a large-scale commercial farm growing potatoes and rotational crops. The successful candidate will be based in the Bakersfield, CA location.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide expert support for commercial crop production through regular scouting and hands-on field work.

• Monitor crops for insect and diseases, ensuring timely interventions to prevent damage.

• Conduct thorough assessments of soil moisture levels and assist with scheduling irrigation to optimize water usage.

• Collect and analyze plant tissue and soil samples during the growing season for fertility management purposes.

• Collaborate with colleagues to develop fertilizer recommendations based on soil analysis results.

• Contribute to quality control initiatives on farm operations, including seed handling and cutting, planter spacing accuracy, and irrigation system uniformity.

• Perform test digs to estimate yield and monitor quality, providing valuable insights for future improvements.

• Evaluate plant growth and maturity, including sugar testing in the field and in storage, to ensure optimal product quality.

• Collect samples from fields and storages, adhering to strict quality control measures.

• Provide daily supervision of Agronomy Tech(s) and/or seasonal employees, fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.

• Assist with fertilizer/chemical management and applications, ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices.

• Develop and execute pest management strategies, collaborating with colleagues to minimize environmental impact.

• Facilitate storage management, ensuring efficient handling and processing of crops.

• Support research and development efforts, contributing to the company's goal of staying ahead in agronomic innovations.

• Collect data for crop trials, analyzing results to inform future decision-making.

• Assist with entering and maintaining information pertaining to chemical/fertilizer applications, ensuring accurate record-keeping.

Physical Demands:

This position requires frequent outdoor work, involving:

• Extensive walking and working in various weather conditions.

• Regular driving between locations, including overnight stays, as required.

• Lifting objects weighing up to 40-50 lbs, ensuring safe manual handling practices.

Requirements:

To succeed in this role, you will need:

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy or a closely related field.

• A private applicators license or the ability to obtain one for chemigation/fumigation.

• A valid driver's license and the ability to pass vehicle insurance verification.

Benefits:

CSS Farms offers a competitive salary range of $60-$85K, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, dental, and vision coverage, S.A./Flex spending accounts, 401(k) plan options, Short Term Disability Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance, and Life Insurance. You will also enjoy paid time off, ten paid holidays, and opportunities for career advancement within the company.