Associate Sales Agronomist

## Description **Associate Sales Agronomist Program** **Purpose** The Associate Sales Program is a structured development track designed to prepare individuals for a full-time **Regional Sales Agronomist** role. Through hands-on experience, classroom-style learning, and mentorship, participants gain a deep understanding of agronomic practices, sales techniques, and customer relationship management within the cooperative system. **Program Objectives** - Build foundational knowledge in crop production, soil science, and product performance. - Develop professional selling and communication skills to effectively serve growers. - Learn the cooperative’s products, services, and operational processes. - Gain real-world experience working with experienced agronomists in the field. - Transition into an independent sales territory within 12–24 months **Program Structure** **Length:** Typically, **12–24 months**, depending on prior experience and performance. **Format:** A blend of **field experience**, **classroom training**, and **mentorship**. **Phase 1: Orientation & Foundations (0–3 months)** - Introduction to the cooperative’s structure, mission, and core values. - Safety and Oakland training. - Overview of agronomy operations, logistics, and sales processes. - Product knowledge introduction (seed, fertilizer, crop protection, precision ag tools). **Phase 2: Agronomic & Technical Training (4–9 months)** - Hands-on training in soil sampling, crop scouting, and yield analysis. - Hands-on applicating once Custom Application License is obtained. - Field experience with senior agronomists on customer farms. - Vendor and manufacturer product training sessions. - Begin assisting in writing basic crop plans and recommendations. **Phase 3: Sales Development (10–18 months)** - Training in sales strategy, customer service, and territory management. - Shadowing sales agronomists on sales calls and grower meetings. - Begin managing a small group of accounts under supervision. - Complete training on financing options. - Use Oakland, Agronomy Operations and precision ag platforms for sales tracking, dispatching and customer planning. **Phase 4: Transition to Regional Sales Agronomist (18–24 months)** - Independent sales responsibility. - Continued mentorship and performance evaluation. - Final review and readiness assessment for promotion to full-time **Regional Sales Agronomist**. **Phase 5: Independent Territory Development (24–36 months)** - Full ownership of customer relationships. - Annual sales accountability. - Mentoring incoming associate agronomists. **Certification & Continuing Education** - Commercial Applicator License - CDL certification - CCA exam preparation - Precision ag certifications (as needed) **Compensation upon Completion and Promotion to Regional Sales Agronomist** · Company vehicle - Microsoft Surface - Commission pay - Bonus eligibility **Key Program Components** - **Mentorship:** One-on-one guidance from experienced agronomists or sales managers. - - Monthly development meetings - Quarterly goal-setting sessions - Annual performance review and career planning - **Technical Training:** Agronomy best practices, crop protection, seed placement, and precision technology. - **Sales Training:** Consultative selling, communication, and customer relationship management. - **Cross-Functional Exposure:** Operations, logistics, finance, and cooperative business practices. - **Performance Feedback:** Regular check-ins, progress reviews, and skill assessments. **Ideal Candidate** - Recent graduate in **Agronomy, Crop Science, Ag Business, or related field**. - Strong interest in agronomy and ag sales. - Excellent communication and problem-solving skills. - Willingness to travel and work outdoors in varying conditions. - Team-oriented, motivated, and eager to learn.