What are the responsibilities and job description for the Custom Applicator position at Star of the West Milling Co.?
Professionally apply fertilizers and crop protection to crops and fields using specialized equipment. This roll plays a critical role in helping growers maintain healthy crops and maximize yields.
Duties
Duties include but are not limited to the following:
- Prepare equipment and crop protection for application, ensuring that all equipment is clean and in good working order and that crop protection is mixed according to product labels.
- Apply crop protection to crops and fields using specialized application equipment.
- Use GPS and other technology to ensure precise application
- Follow all safety procedures to minimize the risk of accidents or exposure to crop protection products.
- Monitor the application process to ensure that fertilizers and crop protection are being applied at the correct rate and that the equipment is functioning properly. Adjust application rates or equipment settings as needed to achieve the desired results.
- Maintain detailed records of all applications
- types and quantities of materials
- the dates and times of application
- any observations or notes about the conditions or results of the application.
- note environmental conditions, field conditions, wind, etc.
- Maintain equipment in good working order, performing routine maintenance and repairs as needed. Coordinate with mechanics or other professionals to perform more complex repairs or upgrades.
- Follow all safety procedures, including wearing protective equipment and ensuring that fertilizer and crop protection is stored and handled safely. Participate in safety training or other programs to improve knowledge of safe handling practices.
- Communicates with customers and supervisor/agronomy consultant to discuss application plans and to ensure that they are satisfied with the results of applications.
- Assist in other Elevator Operations as needed during down time or off season.
Minimum Requirements
- High School diploma or equivalent
- CDL license preferred, but not required
- 2 to 3 years experience preferred, or related field or ability to learn
- Willingness to work weekdays as long as required and weekends as required
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification
Skills and abilities
- Strong mechanical and technical skills preferred
- Knowledge of agricultural crop protection and equipment
- Communication skills
- Problem Solving skill
- Able to adapt quickly in many different situations (customer requests, weather, etc.)
Physical Demands
Physically able to perform all requirements including but not limited to:
- Ability to walk stairs and climb up/down and in and around equipment and facility
- Standing and walking for several hours for an extended period of time
- General cleaning and housekeeping
- Ability to lift 50 pounds
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to:
- Occasionally exposed to fumes and/or airborne particles
- Noise level is moderate