Overview
Custom Applicator Jobs in Foreston, MN at Gilman Cooperative Creamery
Job description:
Position Summary
The Custom Applicator is responsible for safely and efficiently applying fertilizer, crop protection products, and other agricultural inputs to customers’ fields. The position operates application equipment, works closely with customers and agronomy staff, and helps ensure products are applied accurately, safely, and according to label requirements.
The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working outdoors in a fast paced, seasonal agricultural environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate fertilizer spreaders, sprayers, tender trucks, and other agricultural application equipment.
- Apply liquid and dry fertilizer, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and other crop input products according to product labels and application recommendations.
- Accurately measure, mix, load, and handle agricultural chemicals and fertilizer.
- Calibrate application equipment to ensure proper application rates and coverage.
- Inspect equipment before use and perform routine cleaning, maintenance, and minor repairs.
- Safely transport fertilizer, chemicals, equipment, and other agricultural products.
- Complete field applications efficiently while minimizing skips, overlaps, and crop damage.
- Maintain accurate records of products applied, rates, dates, fields, and customers.
- Communicate with agronomists, location management, and customers regarding application schedules and field conditions.
- Identify and report equipment problems, field conditions, spills, or other issues.
- Follow all product labels, application regulations, company procedures, and safety requirements.
- Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling and applying agricultural products.
- Maintain clean and organized equipment, work areas, chemical storage areas, and vehicles.
- Assist with fertilizer blending, product loading, deliveries, and other location activities as needed.
- Help during busy planting, spraying, and harvest seasons, including extended hours when necessary.
- Provide professional and courteous service to farmers and other customers.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Safety and Compliance
- Follow all federal, state, and local regulations governing fertilizer and pesticide handling and application.
- Maintain required pesticide applicator licenses and certifications.
- Read and follow product labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- Properly handle, store, transport, and dispose of agricultural products and containers.
- Immediately report spills, accidents, injuries, equipment failures, and unsafe conditions.
- Maintain a strong safety culture for yourself, coworkers, customers, and the environment.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous agricultural, spraying, fertilizer, farm, or equipment operating experience preferred.
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Ability to obtain and maintain the appropriate Minnesota pesticide applicator license/certification.
- Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to read and follow written instructions, product labels, and application directions.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate application.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Good communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to work safely around agricultural chemicals and fertilizers.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry agricultural products and equipment as required.
- Ability to climb into and out of trucks, tractors, sprayers, and other equipment.
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and work around agricultural machinery for extended periods.
- Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, wind, dust, and other changing weather conditions.
- Ability to safely perform the physical requirements of the position.
Work Schedule
This is a full-time, seasonal agricultural position. Work hours may vary throughout the year, with longer and more flexible hours during planting and spraying seasons. Early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overtime may be required based on weather, crop conditions, customer needs, and application schedules.
Key Skills for Success
- Safety first.
- Dependability and strong work ethic.
- Attention to detail.
- Equipment operation.
- Mechanical aptitude.
- Agricultural knowledge.
- Accurate recordkeeping.
- Customer service.
- Ability to work independently.
- Teamwork and communication.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits would be based on Mille Lacs Soil Service Association’s current employment package and may include competitive wages, overtime opportunities, health and dental benefits, retirement benefits, paid time off, and other company benefits, if offered.
Overall Objective
The goal of the Custom Applicator is to provide safe, accurate, timely, and professional agricultural application services while protecting crops, customers, employees, equipment, and the environment and supporting the overall success of Mille Lacs Soil Service Association and its customers.
Pay: $30,000.00 – $71,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Title: Custom Applicator
Company: Gilman Cooperative Creamery
Location: Foreston, MN
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