What are the responsibilities and job description for the Agronomy Operations Manager position at River Country Co-op?
Agronomy Operations Manager
Location: Owen, WI
Reports To: VP of Agronomy
Position Summary
The Agronomy Operations Manager leads the daily operations of our Owen agronomy facility while promoting a culture of safety, integrity, and customer service. This role requires a strong leader with excellent communication skills, a solid work ethic, and the ability to develop and lead a diverse team. The successful candidate will drive operational excellence and support the continued growth of the location.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Operations
- Lead daily operations of the agronomy facility including fertilizer, chemical, seed, and custom application services
- Manage staffing, scheduling, training, performance evaluations and team development
- Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and customer service excellence
- Communicate effectively with all members of the team, as well as customers
- Ensure compliance with all environmental, DOT, OSHA, and EPA regulations
Sales & Customer Relations
- Build and maintain strong relationships with growers and agronomy customers
- Support sales efforts through customer engagement, crop planning, and service coordination
- Partner with agronomists to deliver agronomic solutions that maximize customer profitability
- Resolve customer concerns and service issues professionally and efficiently
Financial & Inventory Management
- Assist in management of annual operating budgets and capital improvement plans
- Provide operational input into annual capital expenses
- Monitor location profitability, margins, and expenses
- Oversee inventory control, procurement, and shrink management
Facilities & Asset Management
- Maintain agronomy facilities, equipment, rolling stock and infrastructure
- Assist with some oversight and operational readiness for the new agronomy plant
- Oversee seasonal operations including fertilizer blending, chemical handling, and application logistics
- Ensure facility and location cleanliness of facilities and vehicles
Safety & Compliance
- Champion safety programs and conduct regular safety meetings and audits
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations
- Assist the Compliance director in incident investigations and corrective action plans
Qualifications
- Post high school education in Agronomy, Ag Business, Crop Science, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
- Management experience in agronomy retail, operations, or an agricultural leadership position is a plus
- Knowledge of crop inputs, nutrient management, crop protection products, and application systems is a preferred
- Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills
- CDL and applicator license preferred and or the ability to obtain
Working Conditions
- Seasonal hours during spring planting and fall application seasons which will include some weekends as conditions merit.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person