Summary

This role operates as a liaison between the company and the growing community to produce the highest quality of raw product to support production goals. Meets goals through continuous monitoring of crops in the field and storages, assessing and recommending water and insect controls, forecasting crop quality during the growing and storage season, at times negotiating contracts with growers on open purchases. Interacts with industry and university researchers to evaluate continuous improvement in crop production. Coordinates planting, harvesting, sampling, and transportation schedules with interaction between field personnel and grower. Works very independently at the highest level. Assigned acres and number of growers can vary from small to large. Administers the terms of Potato Growing Agreement contract with growers. Additional duties may require monitoring of company storages throughout the season.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records as directed by current year Potato Growing Agreement contract (pesticide records, field exhibits, etc.)  Make sure the record information is maintained electronically.
• Develops forecast using historical crop data. 
• Coordinates planting schedule based on area, harvest yield history, and variety. 
• Consults with growers on irrigation, nutritional, and disease control programs for optimal crop health.                                                           
• Evaluates crop samples and adjusts schedules as needed. Negotiates contracts with growers regarding pricing, transportation, and harvesting.
• Monitor company assigned storages when applicable.
• Develop effective working relationship with Land & Livestock and Agribusiness units.
• Develop effective working relationship with assigned growers, industry partners, University personnel.          
• Negotiates open raw product purchases.          
• Actively participate with industry, research, and Universities on crop production issues and improvement opportunities. Attends crop variety trials searching for improved varieties. Pursues new developments in technology to help ensure accurate and current information in regard to raw product acquisition and harvest efficiencies. Maintains pesticide reports. 

Typical Education

Relevant Experience

Other Information

High degree of technical and practical knowledge of plant biological functions preferred.  Potato experience preferred. Strong agricultural knowledge in planting, harvesting, and equipment. Good knowledge of computer systems. Excellent oral, written, relation building skills, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to analyze multiple factors affecting plant growth and apply the data in practical situations.

This position requires frequent outdoor work and walking th rough agricultural fields on varying terrain. Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and regularly navigate stairs.