Customer Service Associate

Customer Service Representative-Northern Illinois - FS GRAIN - Morris, IL Company: FS Grain, LLC City: Morris State: IL FS GRAIN is a leading grain company with 80 full time employees operating in Northern Illinois. FS GRAIN operates 19 facilities with a combined storage capacity of 40 million bushels, and access to multiple grain markets, including ownership of two Class I shuttle loaders. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. DIVISION: Grain SALARY RANGE: $18.00-$28.00 REPORTS TO: Customer Relations Manager STATUS: NON-EXEMPT Purpose and Summary Statement Under the direction of the Customer Relations Manager, the Customer Service Representative (CSR) is responsible for grain administrative functions including customer applications and settlements, contract entry, account management, and related customer service activities for an assigned producer group. This role supports grain origination and merchandising efforts while building strong customer relationships and contributing to the growth of market share across FS Grain. This position reflects FS Grain's commitment to professionalism through accurate execution, strong customer relationships, and effective communication. The CSR demonstrates customer focus by serving as a key point of contact for producers, ensuring timely service, and delivering accurate account and contract management. The role promotes integrity through precise recordkeeping, compliance with company policies, and responsible financial and grain accounting practices. Through collaboration with originators, merchandisers, and facility staff, the CSR contributes to operational efficiency, teamwork, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, customer-focused, and highly organized, with strong communication skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced agricultural environment. Essential Job Functions Assist in creating and maintaining a positive, professional work environment that promotes teamwork, leadership, profitability, and competitiveness. Serve as the local subject matter expert for settlements, splits, and account management for assigned customer groups. Utilize and maintain proficiency in the Grain Accounting System, including generating reports for DPR, check-off deductions, freight payments, liens, and accounts payable/receivable. Support grain origination and merchandising activities, including providing bids, discussing market conditions, and assisting with grain contracting. Coordinate logistics activities when applicable to support grain movement and customer needs. Understand and apply various contract types, including their impact on producer positions, payment options, and overall business outcomes. Maintain accurate grain and customer records in accordance with company policies, including timely reporting of grain purchases and hedge activity. Manage customer grain activity, including contract application, record updates, settlements, and reconciliation of contracts and storage bushels. Oversee customer accounts receivable and grain payables for assigned elevator locations and/or customer portfolios. Use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, when available, to manage customer interactions, profiles, and business opportunities. Ensure contract entries are accurately reconciled across multiple originators and customer accounts. Provide professional, timely, and courteous customer service while serving as a primary point of customer contact for FS Grain. Participate in required meetings and training programs, including those related to grain origination and merchandising. Promote accurate communication of market activity, contracts, and operational updates between departments. Additional Responsibilities Maintain a professional appearance and represent FS Grain in a positive and customer-focused manner. Stay current on industry trends, competitive practices, and regulatory compliance requirements. Perform other duties as assigned to support operational and customer service needs. Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent required. Proven computer proficiency and experience working with customers required. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills required. Knowledge of cooperative philosophies and agricultural business practices preferred. Demonstrated ability to manage detailed financial and grain accounting functions preferred. Proven ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment. Other Requirements Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision. Willingness and ability to travel when necessary. Ability to work extended hours beyond normal business hours when operational demands require. SECURING YOUR FUTURE, ONE BENEFIT AT A TIME. Our benefits packages are designed to support every aspect of our employees' well-beingfrom health plans to life insurance, robust retirement plans, and more. We provide benefits that meet their needs today while also ensuring a secure future. Offerings may include, but are not limited to: UNITED STATES: Fully Funded Pension* 401(k) & Employer Match Medical, Dental, Vision HSA & Employer Contributions Life Insurance Disability Identity Protection *The pension plan is subject to individual company participation. Those who do not participate in the pension plan enjoy a higher 401(k) employer match. **Some benefits are subject to the hiring company. CANADA: DC Pension Plan RRSP Medical, Dental, Vision Life Insurance Disability Volunteer Day *Benefit eligibility may be dependent on employment type