Agronomist & Seed Sales Specialist

Organizational Background 

Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics for domestic and worldwide export markets. Our vertically integrated company is headquartered in Portland, OR, and we own and operate over 60 facilities including grain elevators and pulse processing plants across WA, ID, MT, NE, and ND.

At all levels of our organization, our employees are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the industry. We've spent over 40 years cultivating lasting partnerships with a wide network of producers and the local communities surrounding our facilities, which enables us to source the highest quality product and to fulfill our mission of feeding the world.

Position Description

We are seeking an Agronomist & Seed Sales Specialist to join our dynamic team in North Dakota. The ideal candidate will combine expertise in agronomy with a strong sales acumen, offering farmers tailored agronomic solutions and high-quality seed products. This role involves not only advising on crop management practices but also promoting and selling seed products that meet the specific needs of our clients. You will work directly with farmers to enhance crop yields, optimize soil health, and recommend seed varieties that align with their goals and growing conditions.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Agronomic Consulting: Provide expert agronomic advice on crop selection, soil health, fertility management, pest and disease control, and sustainable farming practices tailored to the unique needs of North Dakota growers.
• Seed Sales: Develop and maintain relationships with farmers, agribusinesses, and other stakeholders to drive seed sales. Offer expert guidance on seed selection, varieties, and planting techniques that maximize crop yield and quality.
• Product Knowledge: Stay updated on the latest seed varieties, innovations, and agronomic trends to recommend the best products for clients. Understand and communicate seed performance under different environmental conditions.
• Field Support & Monitoring: Conduct regular field visits to assess soil health, crop development, and pest management. Provide guidance on planting schedules, fertilization plans, irrigation, and pest management tailored to customer needs.
• Customer Education & Training: Lead workshops, field demonstrations, and one-on-one consultations to educate clients about new seed products, agronomic practices, and emerging industry trends.
• Sales Strategy & Market Development: Create and implement sales strategies to meet targets and grow the seed product market in North Dakota. Identify new market opportunities and expand the customer base through effective networking and relationship-building.
• Sales Forecasting & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of sales activity, customer interactions, and market trends. Provide regular reports to management regarding sales performance, inventory levels, and customer needs.
• Field Work: Regular visits to farms and agricultural operations across North Dakota to provide on-site consultations, monitor crop health, and promote seed products.
• Office Work: Sales administration, customer follow-ups, and reporting are carried out in an office-based environment.
• Travel: Occasional travel for industry events, conferences, and meetings with seed suppliers.

Skills, Knowledge, Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in agriculture
• Highly organized and the ability to achieve sales goals and quotas within reason. 
• Knowledge of computer systems and solid PC skills with proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Proficient and hands-on experience with spreadsheets and financial reports.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact with all levels within the company, and with vendors and customers.
• Ability to uphold and maintain discretion and care regarding confidential and sensitive personnel and company information.
• Ability to be flexible and adaptive to successfully achieve the function of the position.

Benefits Offered 

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and RX benefits
• Company paid Life Insurance and Disability
• Flexible Spending Plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401K Retirement savings plan
• Paid Holidays, Vacation and Sick leave
• Monthly vehicle allowance

Successful completion of initial and ongoing employment screens, including but not limited to criminal background and vehicle record as required.

Columbia Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer