Seed Production Agronomist

Job Title:                   Seed Production Agronomist (PNW)

Department:              Agronomy

Location:                   Great Falls Montana

Reports To:                Seed Division Manager

Organizational Background:

Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics for domestic and worldwide export markets. Our vertically integrated company is headquartered in Portland, OR, and we own and operate over 60 facilities including grain elevators and pulse processing plants across WA, ID, MT, NE, and ND.

At all levels of our organization, our employees are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the industry. We've spent over 40 years cultivating lasting partnerships with a wide network of producers and the local communities surrounding our facilities, which enables us to source the highest quality product to "make markets" and fulfill our mission of nourishing the world, safely.

Position Description:

The Seed Production Agronomist is primarily responsible for the management and execution of all phases of seed production in the Pacific Northwest (Montana, Idaho, Washington). This position will work specifically toward the creation of high-quality seed (different from field agronomists) The Seed Agronomist will work with the other members of the team to work toward operational goals while maintaining quality and efficiencies. This position is Montana office based with travel required.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Contract required production acres with seed growers to maximize yield, minimize freight costs and deliver seed meeting quality specifications.
• Develop and maintain a grower evaluation system to drive increased yields and quality.
• Understand seed species and varieties, seed quality standards, and crop delivery requirements.
• Develop and implement programs regarding agronomic issues in production fields.
• Conduct and manage field productions of seed as required.
• Perform and coordinate seed logistics activities to ensure accurate records and movement of seed.
• Coordinate and manage Internal and external Seed Trials
• Comply with stewardship requirements that are specific to the seed being produced/delivered.
• Complete administrative duties such as signing grower contracts, collecting and inputting data for reports, pricing, and managing disposition of harvest.
• Remain current with latest production technology to support seed growers.
• Maintain relationships with growers, contractors and the local farming community.
• Satisfy internal production standards within quality, timeliness and financial objectives.
• Propose improvements to the field operations production program.
• Assist with other business activities as necessary including assisting at the seed plants, elevators.
• Other duties assigned.

Skills, Knowledge, Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Business or 3 years industry experience.  
• Basic knowledge of working with a computer and mechanical skills.
• Excellent communication, organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to understand and communicate complex instructions.