Senior Field Representative - Portage la Prairie, MB

at  Simplot

Simplot Canada (II) Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of the J.R. Simplot Company. The J.R. Simplot Company is a diverse, privately held organization, with roots firmly planted in agriculture and agriculture-related businesses. The J.R. Simplot Company is a true farm-to-table company with operations that touch every aspect of agriculture, including seed production, farming and ranching, plant sciences, fertilizer manufacturing, food processing, commercial product development, and distribution.

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.

TYPICAL EDUCATION

Bachelor’s Degree (B.A. or B.S.) from 4 year college or university

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

3+ years related experience and/or training

• 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.