Lancaster Farming, Inc. - Agricultural Market Analyst

Lancaster Farming Newspaper is looking for a highly analytical and detail-oriented Agricultural Market Analyst to join our dynamic team! This role will focus on monitoring and analyzing market trends related to crops, dairy, livestock, weather patterns, and geopolitical factors to provide actionable insights that support business decisions in the agricultural sector. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of agricultural economics, market dynamics, and both climate and geopolitical impacts, with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear, strategic commentary beneficial to subscribers.

Why work with us?

We know that employees are a business’s greatest asset and the primary driver of success. We are committed to attracting and retaining people who are bright, curious, flexible, and energetic, to ensure our progress for the next 225 years.

Lancaster Farming is the “Farmer’s Choice” since 1955, covering many agriculture industries, including dairy, beef, swine, sheep, goat, horse and specialty animal buyers and sellers. It is also the largest farm implement marketplace in the Northeast. Every Saturday, the newspaper delivers news, market and commodity reports, and agribusiness information to more than 60,000 paid subscribers in Pennsylvania and fifteen other states.

Free public parking available in Ephrata.

Essential Job Functions:

• Market Analysis: Monitor and analyze domestic and global markets for crops (grains, fruits, vegetables), dairy products, and livestock. Track supply, demand, pricing, and trade dynamics, and identify emerging trends.
• Weather Impact Assessment: Evaluate weather patterns and climate trends, assessing their potential impact on crop yields, livestock production, and overall agricultural market conditions. Provide regular updates on critical weather-related events such as droughts, floods, and storms.
• Data Collection & Reporting: Gather and interpret a wide range of data from government reports, market research, weather forecasts, and trade publications. Produce regular reports and presentations that summarize market conditions and forecast future trends. Lead improvements to market reporting format and analysis on the Lancaster Farming website.
• Price Forecasting & Modelling: Develop and maintain models to forecast commodity prices based on market conditions, weather factors, and seasonal trends. Provide recommendations to stakeholders based on predicted market shifts.
• Insights & Recommendations: Provide actionable insights to clients, farmers, traders, and internal teams based on data-driven analysis. Offer market strategies, pricing forecasts, and risk management advice to improve decision-making in agricultural production and trade.
• Stakeholder Communication: Communicate findings through editorial reporting, e-newsletters, podcasts, and videos with internal teams, clients, and industry stakeholders. Be the key point of contact for any market-related questions.
• Industry Trends & Research: Stay current with industry news, agricultural policies, technological advancements, environmental factors affecting agriculture, and geopolitical factors impacting international and domestic trade. Attend relevant conferences, webinars, and other professional development opportunities as required.

What are we looking for?

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Market Analysis, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in agricultural market analysis or related fields.
• Knowledge of agricultural commodities markets, supply chains, and factors affecting crop, dairy, and livestock industries.
• Experience with weather forecasting tools and reports, and understanding their impact on agriculture.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with proficiency in statistical software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly to both technical and non technical audiences.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Familiarity with global trade policies and regulatory frameworks impacting agriculture.
• Advanced knowledge of climate models, weather prediction tools, or agricultural modeling software.

As a team member at Lancaster Farming, you’ll enjoy:

• 4 weeks PTO to start (pro-rated for first year)
• Paid Holidays
• Benefits: medical, prescription, dental, vision, short-term disability, basic life insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Wellness program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Parental leave program

For a full list of all positions available please visit our career page: www.steinmancommunications.com/careers

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