What are the responsibilities and job description for the Custom Applicator position at Farmward Cooperative?
Custom Applicator
Reports to: Agronomy Operations Manager
Location: Springfield
Pay Range: $19 - $28 (DOE)
Supervises: NA
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
ABOUT US
Reports to: Agronomy Operations Manager
Location: Springfield
Pay Range: $19 - $28 (DOE)
Supervises: NA
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
ABOUT US
Farmward Cooperative is a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to supporting agricultural producers and rural communities. We provide agronomy, energy, grain, feed, convenience store, retail services - including auto shops and small engine repair and financial services, all with a focus on safety, integrity, and long-term relationships. We are committed to providing quality products and services while fostering a safe, supportive, and respectful workplace where employees can grow and succeed.
POSITION SUMMARY
POSITION SUMMARY
As a valued team member in our Ag Operations Department, you will play a crucial role in applying nutrients and crop protection products to our customers’ fields in a safe, accurate, and efficient manner. You will also need to maintain and repair equipment according to maintenance schedules, policies and procedures. Attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership in the work and the equipment used is a must. We want a self-motivated, hardworking individual with a great attention to detail and the ability to interact with our customers in a professional manner. This is a year-round, full-time position. You will also be cross trained to assist other departments at various times during the year.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Key Area & Tasks
Application Operations
Meet customer application orders for dry fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and NH3
Operate dry and liquid flotation equipment
Operate row crop spray equipment and tractors used for NH3 application
Ensure all applications are completed accurately, efficiently, and according to customer specifications
Record application data accurately and timely using designated digital platforms
Operate tender trucks as needed
Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail during all application activities
Assist with dispatch and scheduling activities as needed to meet customer demands
Equipment Maintenance
Perform daily preventative maintenance on application equipment
Complete annual maintenance and inspections on all application equipment
Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs to minimize downtime
Order replacement parts and maintain organized parts inventory and supply areas
Assist with maintenance of chemical, liquid fertilizer, seed, grain, and petroleum equipment as needed
Customer Service & Communication
Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers
Represent Farmward professionally through actions, appearance, and communication
Respond promptly to customer needs while maintaining safety and operational standards
Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, and management regarding application schedules, operational issues, and customer requests
Process Improvement & Operational Support
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, organization, and cost control within application and maintenance operations
Assist in implementing process improvements and operational best practices
Support other agronomy operations and departments as business needs require
Safety & Organization
Maintain accurate, detailed, and timely application records
Keep shop, equipment, and facility areas clean, organized, and safe
Follow all Farmward safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and promote a culture of safety
Assist other departments, including chemical and seed warehouses, blending operations, petroleum, and grain operations as needed
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Education and Experience
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Key Area & Tasks
Application Operations
Meet customer application orders for dry fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and NH3
Operate dry and liquid flotation equipment
Operate row crop spray equipment and tractors used for NH3 application
Ensure all applications are completed accurately, efficiently, and according to customer specifications
Record application data accurately and timely using designated digital platforms
Operate tender trucks as needed
Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail during all application activities
Assist with dispatch and scheduling activities as needed to meet customer demands
Equipment Maintenance
Perform daily preventative maintenance on application equipment
Complete annual maintenance and inspections on all application equipment
Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs to minimize downtime
Order replacement parts and maintain organized parts inventory and supply areas
Assist with maintenance of chemical, liquid fertilizer, seed, grain, and petroleum equipment as needed
Customer Service & Communication
Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers
Represent Farmward professionally through actions, appearance, and communication
Respond promptly to customer needs while maintaining safety and operational standards
Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, and management regarding application schedules, operational issues, and customer requests
Process Improvement & Operational Support
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, organization, and cost control within application and maintenance operations
Assist in implementing process improvements and operational best practices
Support other agronomy operations and departments as business needs require
Safety & Organization
Maintain accurate, detailed, and timely application records
Keep shop, equipment, and facility areas clean, organized, and safe
Follow all Farmward safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and promote a culture of safety
Assist other departments, including chemical and seed warehouses, blending operations, petroleum, and grain operations as needed
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Preferably with agriculture experience.
- Previous equipment operation experience (payloader, forklift, or similar).
- Cooperative background desirable, but not necessary.
- Ability to pass a DOT physical examination and drug test.
Licensing/Certifications (ability to obtain after hire)
- Class A CDL
- Commercial Pesticide Applicator License
- Valid DOT medical/health card.
- Hazardous Materials and Tanker, Endorsement.
- Willingness and ability to obtain forklift certification if not already licensed
Additional Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed
- Demonstrates a positive attitude, strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.
- Must maintain a driving record that meets insurance carrier requirements.
- Ability to pass a DOT physical examination and drug test.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Mechanically inclined with a general knowledge of agricultural equipment.
Safety & Compliance
- Adhere to all Farmward Cooperative safety policies, procedures, and regulations
- Maintain a strong safety record by following procedures and reporting unsafe conditions promptly
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Farmward is proud to offer more than just a paycheck. Our compensation and benefits package is built around the whole employee -your health, your future, your family, and your growth.
Benefits
Benefits
- Medical Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
- Company-paid life and disability insurance
- Both a Pension and 401 (k) match - a rare combination that invests in your long-term future.
- Paid time off, volunteer day, and holidays
- Profit-sharing bonus opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including mental health, financial counseling, and family support resources
- Wellness program with reimbursement options
- Additional voluntary benefit options, which includes Dental, and Vision Insurance.
Growth & Development:
- Training and certification reimbursement
- Professional development to support career advancement within our cooperative
Position Perks: (In addition to our benefits package, this position may include)
- $200 annual logo clothing allowance
- Boot program & Jean program
- Carhartt jacket & bibs program
Ready to Grow your Career? Apply today at www.farmward.net or send your resume to hr@farmward.net
Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to limit the responsibilities of an employee assigned to this position to those duties listed above. The employee is expected to follow any other instructions and perform any other duties requested by the immediate supervisor or company management. The level of involvement may vary based on company and individual capabilities.
Salary : $200