Commodity Merchandising Trainee (2027)

andersonsinc; Maumee (OH); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Andersons is a North American leader in agribusiness and renewable fuels. The Commodity Merchandising Trainee (MIT) Program is a 12-month development program with two six-month rotations at North American trading locations, building expertise in commodity marketing, market analysis, logistics, and risk management.

MITs gain hands-on experience alongside seasoned merchandisers, aiming to transition into an entry-level merchandising role within the organization upon completion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• 1-3 years' relevant internship, agricultural, customer-facing, leadership, or work experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Learn commodity merchandising terminology, tools, concepts, and systems while applying them in a commercial environment
• Build relationships and communicate effectively with internal and external customers
• Develop a fundamental understanding of local, national, and global commodity markets, trading flows, and supply and demand dynamics
• Analyze market, crop, and economic conditions to identify factors influencing commodity prices and commercial opportunities
• Assist in managing customer relationships, contracts, logistics, and data analysis activities
• Gain experience supporting commodity procurement, marketing, and risk management strategies
• Develop a working knowledge of Agribusiness operations, including merchandising, logistics, accounting, and commercial processes
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support customer solutions and business objectives
• Apply commercial and market insights to make recommendations and contribute to business decisions

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Relationship building

Entrepreneurial mindset

Opportunity assessment

Willingness to travel/relocate

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/ related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

As a North American leader in agribusiness and renewable fuels, The Andersons operates in a unique space, bringing together agriculture, energy, and global markets. From the farm to customers around the world, we help move food, feed, and fuel where it's needed most.

Our business spans the full value chain, which means the work we do directly supports farmers, customers, and communities every day. Whether it's helping producers succeed, delivering essential products, or advancing more sustainable energy solutions, our impact is both local and global.

What truly sets us apart is how we work together. We are a performance-driven, people-powered organization where employees are owners, sharing in our success and helping shape our future. We invest in our team through development opportunities, meaningful career paths, and a culture that encourages growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

At the core of everything we do is our Statement of Principles. We are committed to providing extraordinary service to our customers, helping our employees improve, supporting our communities, and increasing the value of the company for our shareholders.

Position Overview

The Commodity Merchandising Trainee (MIT) Program is a 12-month development program designed to provide the foundation for a successful career in commodity merchandising at The Andersons. Through two six-month rotations at North American trading locations, MITs gain hands-on experience in commodity marketing, market analysis, customer relationship management, transportation and logistics, risk management, and commercial strategy. Working alongside experienced merchandisers, MITs develop the entrepreneurial mindset, commercial acumen, and decision-making skills needed to identify opportunities, evaluate market conditions, manage risk, and create value for customers and The Andersons.

Upon successful completion of the program, MITs will be equipped with the knowledge, experience, and industry perspective needed to transition into an entry-level merchandising role within the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Learn commodity merchandising terminology, tools, concepts, and systems while applying them in a commercial environment
• Build relationships and communicate effectively with internal and external customers
• Develop a fundamental understanding of local, national, and global commodity markets, trading flows, and supply and demand dynamics
• Analyze market, crop, and economic conditions to identify factors influencing commodity prices and commercial opportunities
• Assist in managing customer relationships, contracts, logistics, and data analysis activities
• Gain experience supporting commodity procurement, marketing, and risk management strategies
• Develop a working knowledge of Agribusiness operations, including merchandising, logistics, accounting, and commercial processes
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support customer solutions and business objectives
• Apply commercial and market insights to make recommendations and contribute to business decisions

What is Expected of You and Others at This Level

• Performs routine, entry-level assignments
• Knowledge and exposure to fundamental theories, principles and concepts gained through education and/or experience
• Develops competence by performing structured work assignments
• Uses existing procedures to solve routine or standard problems
• Receives instruction, guidance and direction

Competencies Expected of You and Others at This Level

• Collaborates - Builds partnerships and works cooperatively with others to achieve shared objectives
• Ensures Accountability - Holds self and others accountable to meet commitments
• Being Resilient - Rebounds from setbacks and adversity when facing difficult situations
• Customer Focus - Builds strong customer relationships and delivers customer centric solutions
• Values Differences - Recognizes the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization
• Optimizes Work Processes - Knows the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement
• Instills Trust - Gains the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity

Minimum Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field
• 1-3 years' relevant internship, agricultural, customer-facing, leadership, or work experience preferred
• Strong analytical, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial mindset who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Comfortable evaluating opportunities, making decisions, and taking appropriate risks
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software
• Willingness to travel and flexibility to relocate required

This job description is intended to give you a general understanding of the role and the type of work involved, but it may not include