Applicator

Southern States Corporation; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern States Cooperative in Kentucky seeks an Applicator to apply fertilizers and agronomy treatments, operate applicator equipment, and support customers in outdoor settings.

Applicants need a high school diploma or GED and a valid Class B CDL; training and applicator certification are provided. The job involves precision farming with GPS tech, safety protocols, and occasional extended hours. This is a hands-on, seasonal role with opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in agricultural operations or equipment preferred.
• Valid Class B CDL required.

Responsibilities

• Apply fertilizers and agronomy treatments per work orders and standards.
• Operate applicator equipment and vehicles.
• Use GPS and precision agriculture technology for accurate placement.
• Perform pre-trip inspections and basic maintenance on equipment.
• Maintain maintenance records and participate in trainings and certifications.
• Support warehouse, delivery, and other operational activities.

Skills

Equipment operation

Mechanical aptitude

Time management

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GPS systems

Application software

Forklift operation

Job description

At Southern States, we're more than an agricultural cooperative. We're a team dedicated to serving local farmers, communities, and each other. As an Applicator, you'll work with modern equipment, receive ongoing training, and play a hands-on role in helping our customers grow and succeed. If you enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and making a direct impact, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do

• Apply dry fertilizer, crop protection products, lime, and other agronomy treatments according to customer work orders and application standards.
• Operate applicator equipment, including spreader trucks, Terra-Gators, and other specialized application vehicles.
• Utilize GPS and precision agriculture technology to ensure accurate product placement and complete field coverage.
• Conduct pre-trip inspections, routine maintenance, and basic repairs to keep vehicles and equipment operating safely and efficiently.
• Communicate with team members and supervisors regarding schedules, equipment needs, application progress, and customer service needs.
• Load, transport, handle, and inventory agronomy products while following all safety and environmental guidelines.
• Maintain accurate equipment maintenance records and participate in training, certifications, and annual equipment evaluations.
• Support warehouse, delivery, and other operational activities as business needs require.
• Represent Southern States professionally while providing excellent service to customers.
• Follow all company, environmental, DOT, OSHA, and safety regulations.

Requirements

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous agricultural, fertilizer application, equipment operation, or related experience preferred.
• Forklift experience preferred.
• Southern States experience is a plus.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required.
• Ability to successfully complete Southern States agronomy training and applicator certification requirements.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to safely operate and maintain applicator equipment.
• Ability to learn precision agriculture technology, GPS systems, and application software.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to follow procedures, regulations, and safety standards.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality work.
• Professional communication and customer service skills.
• Basic math skills and ability to read operational manuals and instructions.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Ability to work extended and seasonal hours as business demands require.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Primarily outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Regular exposure to agricultural products, equipment, noise, dust, and moving machinery.
• Frequent lifting of up to 50 lbs. and occasional lifting of up to 100 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, stoop, and operate equipment for extended periods.
• Must be able to meet all vision, hearing, and physical requirements necessary to safely perform the job.

Southern States Cooperative is an EqualOpportunity Employer and does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, family medical history or genetic information, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws, or regulations.

Pay Range

The estimated pay range for this job. Disclosing pay information promotes competitive and equitable pay.

The actual pay rate will depend on the person's qualifications and experience.

$19.00 - $21.00

Pay Transparency

In order to support the Fair Compensation Strategy by the US Govt., HR Dept., clients are required to adhere to "Pay Transparency Law"; in the impacted states; that have mandated the employers to list the salary ranges in Job advertisements or postings for job opportunities and Job promotions.