Custom Applicator

Farmward & Ag; Ghent (MN); On-site; USD 26,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Boot program

Logo clothing allowance

Job summary

Farmward Cooperative in Ghent, MN is seeking a dedicated Custom Applicator to join the Agronomy Operations team. This is a year-round, full-time position focusing on safe, accurate application of nutrients and crop protection products, plus equipment maintenance and customer service responsibilities.

You will operate spreading and spraying equipment, record data, and assist with dispatch while maintaining strict safety standards and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Preferably with agriculture experience.
• Previous equipment operation experience (payloader, forklift, or similar).
• Cooperative background desirable, but not necessary.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical examination and drug test.

Responsibilities

• Meet customer application orders for dry fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and NH3.
• Operate dry and liquid flotation equipment.
• Operate row crop spray equipment and tractors used for NH3 application.
• Ensure all applications are completed accurately, efficiently, and according to customer specifications.
• Record application data accurately and timely using designated digital platforms.
• Operate tender trucks as needed.
• Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail during all application activities.
• Assist with dispatch and scheduling activities as needed to meet customer demands.
• Perform daily preventative maintenance on application equipment.
• Complete annual maintenance and inspections on all application equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs to minimize downtime.
• Order replacement parts and maintain organized parts inventory and supply areas.
• Assist with maintenance of chemical, liquid fertilizer, seed, grain, and petroleum equipment as needed.
• Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers.
• Represent Farmward professionally through actions, appearance, and communication.
• Respond promptly to customer needs while maintaining safety and operational standards.
• Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, and management regarding application schedules, operational issues, and customer requests.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, organization, and cost control within application and maintenance operations.
• Assist in implementing process improvements and operational best practices.
• Support other agronomy operations and departments as business needs require.
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and timely application records.
• Keep shop, equipment, and facility areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow all Farmward safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Wear required PPE and promote a culture of safety.
• Assist other departments as needed.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Excel

Word

Outlook

Job description

We’re growing and looking for passionate individuals like you to grow with us.

Location: Ghent, MN

Job Id:101

# of Openings:1

Custom Applicator

Reports to: Agronomy Operations Manager

Location: Ghent

Pay Range: $19 - $28 (DOE)

Supervises: NA

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

ABOUT US

Farmward Cooperative is a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to supporting agricultural producers and rural communities. We provide agronomy, energy, grain, feed, convenience store, retail services - including auto shops and small engine repair and financial services, all with a focus on safety, integrity, and long-term relationships. We are committed to providing quality products and services while fostering a safe, supportive, and respectful workplace where employees can grow and succeed.

POSITION SUMMARY

As a valued team member in our Ag Operations Department, you will play a crucial role in applying nutrients and crop protection products to our customers’ fields in a safe, accurate, and efficient manner. You will also need to maintain and repair equipment according to maintenance schedules, policies and procedures. Attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership in the work and the equipment used is a must. We want a self-motivated, hardworking individual with a great attention to detail and the ability to interact with our customers in a professional manner. This is a year-round, full-time position. You will also be cross trained to assist other departments at various times during the year.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Key Area & Tasks

Application Operations

• Meet customer application orders for dry fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and NH3
• Operate dry and liquid flotation equipment
• Operate row crop spray equipment and tractors used for NH3 application
• Ensure all applications are completed accurately, efficiently, and according to customer specifications
• Record application data accurately and timely using designated digital platforms
• Operate tender trucks as needed
• Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail during all application activities
• Assist with dispatch and scheduling activities as needed to meet customer demands

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform daily preventative maintenance on application equipment
• Complete annual maintenance and inspections on all application equipment
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs to minimize downtime
• Order replacement parts and maintain organized parts inventory and supply areas
• Assist with maintenance of chemical, liquid fertilizer, seed, grain, and petroleum equipment as needed

Customer Service & Communication

• Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers
• Represent Farmward professionally through actions, appearance, and communication
• Respond promptly to customer needs while maintaining safety and operational standards
• Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, and management regarding application schedules, operational issues, and customer requests

Process Improvement & Operational Support

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, organization, and cost control within application and maintenance operations
• Assist in implementing process improvements and operational best practices
• Support other agronomy operations and departments as business needs require

Safety & Organization

• Maintain accurate, detailed, and timely application records
• Keep shop, equipment, and facility areas clean, organized, and safe
• Follow all Farmward safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and promote a culture of safety
• Assist other departments, including chemical and seed warehouses, blending operations, petroleum, and grain operations as needed

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Preferably with agriculture experience.
• Previous equipment operation experience (payloader, forklift, or similar).
• Cooperative background desirable, but not necessary.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical examination and drug test.

Licensing/Certifications (ability to obtain after hire)

• Class A CDL
• Valid DOT medical/health card.
• Hazardous Materials and Tanker, Endorsement.
• Willingness and ability to obtain forklift certification if not already licensed

Additional Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed
• Demonstrates a positive attitude, strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.
• Must maintain a driving record that meets insurance carrier requirements.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical examination and drug test.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Mechanically inclined with a general knowledge of agricultural equipment.

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all Farmward Cooperative safety policies, procedures, and regulations
• Maintain a strong safety record by following procedures and reporting unsafe conditions promptly

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Farmward is proud to offer more than just a paycheck. Our compensation and benefits package is built around the whole employee -your health, your future, your family, and your growth.

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• Both a Pension and 401 (k) match - a rare combination that invests in your long-term future.
• Paid time off, volunteer day, and holidays
• Profit-sharing bonus opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including mental health, financial counseling, and family support resources
• Wellness program with reimbursement options
• Additional voluntary benefit options, which includes Dental, and Vision Insurance.

Growth & Development

• Training and certification reimbursement
• Professional development to support career advancement within our cooperative

Position Perks

• $200 annual logo clothing allowance
• Boot program & Jean program

Disclaimer: This job description is not intended to limit the responsibilities of an employee assigned to this position to those duties listed above. The employee is expected to follow any other instructions and perform any other duties requested by the immediate supervisor or company management. The level of involvement may vary based on company and individual capabilities.