Precision Ag Lead

Job Description

This job description is a summary of essential job functions necessary for the satisfactory performance of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable those with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Job functions may vary by location.

General Summary

Develop, maintain and implement Precision Farming Programs in an assigned territory through any applicable Southern States business operation.

Essential Job Functions

• Provides front line support for Southern States member cooperatives and COR Precision Ag Coordinators.

• Trains and supports member co-op and company-owned field staff on implementation of the Precision Farming Programs.

• Defines the needs for sales and training materials for implementation of products, such as Quick Guides, Information Sheets, Communication Sheets, etc. for software and equipment products.

• Identifies new business opportunities for products and services available in Southern States network and communicate to the Precision Ag group in Richmond for evaluation.

• Provides front line support for sales and management of Southern States Coop imagery program. Including ground, aerial (plane or UAV) and satellite.

• Works with Precision Ag Coordinators and others to develop and fine-tune agronomic recommendation equations for Seed, Crop Nutrients and Crop Protection products to make proprietary equations that are marketable.

• Develops and implements new and enhanced Precision Ag Programs to producers and growers.

• Works with service locations, managed coops and private dealers to perform periodic "market research" of technology practices and needs within the designated territory.

• Monitors performance of precision agronomy sales, operations, and goals for assigned region.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Territory covers VA areas in-Amelia, Burkeville, King William, Fredericksburg and Richmond.

Requirements

A combination of completed coursework and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

Education: College degree, Bachelor's or Associates, in Crops Science, Business Management or applicable curriculum. (Associates degree would require more experience for consideration)

Experience: Minimum of five years of experience in the Ag Technology industry

CCA preferred, but not required

Requirements:

• High level of communication abilities, written and verbal

• Proficient in MS Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint

• High level of self-motivation to see opportunities and ability to motivate others to action

• High level of ability to work in cross-functional groups.

• High level of innovation and problem solving

• Travel approximately 50%

• Provide after-hours and weekend support as needed

Work Environment

Essential job functions are performed in a variety of environments, including on-site at customer sites, SSC local facilities, and an office setting. May regularly work outdoors unprotected from weather conditions and subject to seasonal temperatures and humidity. May require the frequent operation of a SSC motor vehicle for travel purposes. Travel requirements vary based on location and growing season.

Frequent exposure to hazards, including:

• Odors, fumes and hazardous chemicals associated with dry and liquid fertilizers, soil nutrients, crop protectants, fuel, and other agricultural products and equipment

• Dust, dirt, allergens, insects, pests and other factors associated with inspection of farming and crop production sites

• Products, supplies, and tools with sharp edges or containing hazardous materials

• Moving mechanical parts and vehicles, vibrations and electric current

• Noise levels where hearing protection is optional per PPE Plan

Schedule requirements are largely determined by area sales strategy. Ability to travel during adverse weather conditions may be required. Extended hours may be required at various times including peak growing season.

Physical Activities & Requirements

Physical activities may vary based on location.

• Continuously bend and stoop; finger, handle and utilize repetitive hand motion with products, soil/plant material, and various tools including computers; utilize eye/hand coordination; twist back and neck. Pull, push, lift, carry up to 30 pounds.

• Frequently balance, climb, and crouch; drive motorized vehicles; reach with arms and hands for extended periods; sit for extended periods; stand and walk for extended periods, at times may be on concrete or outdoors on uneven surfaces. Pull, push, lift, carry 30-50 pounds.

• Occasionally kneel and stack. Pull, push, lift, carry over 50 pounds, may be assisted.

Must be able to communicate with customers and counterparts in-person and via telephone regarding the daily business of sales, operations, products, services, and safety. Must be able to maneuver over uneven terrain while inspecting customer farming and production sites. Must be able to utilize vision and touch to diagnose problems and recommend solutions. Must be able to utilize hearing and vision to operate equipment including a motor vehicle. Specific vision abilities required by this position include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Tools & Equipment

Specialized tools and systems related to precision agriculture, including GPS, GIS, and soil sampling tools. Seed, fertilizer, crop protectant, soil nutrients, and other tools, equipment and products as determined by specific location requirements. SSC passenger motor vehicle, telephone, hand held radio, computer, printer, scanner, copier, fax machine, writing instrument, reports, logs, spreadsheets. Commercial motor vehicle use may be required.

Southern States Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, family medical history or genetic information, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws, or regulations.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, functions and skills required for this job. Functions and requirements may change at any time with or without notice.