Grain Elevator Operator (Barge Loader)

Job Summary:

A grain elevator operator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a grain elevator facility, including receiving, storing, occasionally processing, and shipping grains and other agricultural products. They play a key role in maintaining product quality, ensuring safety procedures, and facilitating the smooth flow of grains within the facility. Grain elevator operators typically work in agricultural facilities, which may operate year-round and require extended hours during peak harvest seasons. The work environment can be dusty and noisy, and operators should be prepared to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Job Responsibilities:

· This position will mainly focus on barge loading.

- Weigh, sample and test grains for moisture content, quality, and contaminants using both computer and manual tools.

· Receive and unload incoming shipments of grains from trucks, trains, or other transportation methods.

· Operate equipment such as conveyor belts, augers, bucket elevators, and front-end loaders to transfer and pile grains.

· Regularly perform thorough housekeeping duties throughout the facility and grounds to mitigate dust, debris, and other waste.

· Monitor and control grain flow to prevent spills or overflows.

· Monitor grain storage to maintain optimal conditions for grain preservation.

· Perform routine maintenance and repairs on equipment and storage structures, requiring working at elevations of approx. 200 feet in height.

· Load grains onto trucks, railcars, intermodal containers, or barges for transportation to customers; requiring ascending and descending as necessary via climbing ladders.

· Follow safety protocols and procedures when handling equipment and loading grains to prevent accidents and injuries.

· Comply with environmental regulations related to grain handling and storage.

· All other duties assigned by management.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Knowledge of grain handling equipment and agricultural machinery, or experience working in a grain elevator preferred.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Physical fitness and ability to lift heavy objects.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping.
• Steel-toed or sturdy leather boots are required on the job site.
• Valid driver’s license and means of transportation to commute to/from work and between job sites.
• Willingness to work overtime, irregular hours, including weekends, nights, and evenings, especially during peak harvest seasons.

Special Demands:

· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted.

· Frequently required to stand, walk, use hands, kneel, and bend.

· Exposure to moderate to loud noise within the work environment.

· Exposure to heavy concentrations of grain dust.

· Ability to frequently move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces.

· Ability to frequently wear personal protective equipment correctly, including respirators, fall protection, safety glasses, hard hat, etc.

· Ability to climb stairs and ladders.

· Ability to comfortably work at heights of approximately 200 ft.

· Ability to work in outdoor work environment, including various climates, weather conditions, and inclement weather, approximately 80% of the time.

· Ability to perform all job responsibilities with necessary special demands for up to 8 hours per day.

As of July 2, 2025, Bunge and Viterra combined to become one company. Our ~37,000 employees – the driving force behind our success – are dedicated to one purpose: connecting farmers to consumers to deliver essential food, feed and fuel to the world. As a newly combined company, we are guided by our shared values in all that we do:
- We are one team.
- We lead the way.
- We do what’s right.

We are passionate, bold and driven. Together, we lead the way to deliver results for our customers, each other and the world.

While we work to integrate our job opportunities, candidates are encouraged to explore positions posted on behalf of both Bunge and Viterra

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Have you ever worked as a deckhand? Will be required

Ability to Commute:

• Dubuque, IA 52001 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Dubuque, IA 52001: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Benefits:

Salary : $18 - $24