Field Representative - Scenic Fruit

Oregon Section Institute of Food Technologists (OSIFT); Indiana (PA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Scenic Fruit is seeking a Field Representative to act as a liaison between the company and blueberry growers to optimize yield and quality for production goals. The role emphasizes forecasting, crop monitoring, fruit procurement, and coordination of water and insect controls.

The position requires strong organizational and communication skills, with up to 50% travel and independent work at a high level. Prior agronomy or horticulture experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• Degree or verifiable experience in agronomics, agriculture, horticulture or a related field.
• Technical and practical knowledge of plant functions and crop management.
• Excellent analytical and problem solving skills under deadlines.
• Able to manage multiple priorities with planning and scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate crop samples and adjust schedules with Production Manager coordination.
• Develop forecasts using historical data for planning.
• Coordinate daily picking and delivery with growers and trucking lines.
• Monitor storage of product and ensure timely transfers.
• Maintain real-time communications on crop conditions and schedules.
• Maintain grower relations and update trucking schedules as needed.
• Coordinate reports, receiving and surveys with various stakeholders.
• Attend industry events and stay current on industry news.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong organizational skills

Effective communication

Ability to work independently

Education

Degree in agronomics or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Join a family owned and operated business that has withstood the test of time, 87 years old and stronger than ever! As a 4th generation berry processor, we believe that ideas matter and see employees as our biggest asset. We are currently seeking a Field Rep to join our team. Scenic Fruit offers competitive pay and a generous benefits package.

The Field Representative operates as a liaison between the company and the blueberry grower to produce the highest yield and quality of raw product possible to meet production goals. The individual meets goals through forecasting, continuous monitoring of crops, fruit procurement, and assessing and recommending water and insect controls. The incumbent develops transportation schedules with interaction between plant and field personnel. This position works very independently at the highest level, and is responsible for the most time-sensitive crops.

Essential Functions And Responsibilities

• Evaluate crop samples and adjusts schedules as needed in coordination with Production Manager
• Develop forecast using historical data.
• Proactively work with growers and trucking line for daily picking and delivery of fruit to Scenic Fruit and Cornelius/Woodburn receiving stations.
• Monitor storage of product.
• Communicate, in real-time, crop conditions, pick dates and schedules.
• Continuous updates and maintenance of trucking schedule.
• Maintain on-going communication and relations with growers in and out of season.
• Collect food safety audits for all fresh/frozen growers and PUR samples for fresh market growers.
• Prepare and organize receiving stations before and during season.
• Coordinate the updates or revisions, mailings, receiving, compilation, and filing of reports (including governmental office and private organization)/surveys and various commissions.
• Maintain grower-related documents.
• Attend industry trade shows and meetings such as Oregon Blueberry Commission to stay current on industry events and news.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education & Qualifications

• Degree, certification, or other verifiable experience in agronomics, agriculture, horticulture or a related field. Minimum 4+ years preferred.
• Technical and practical knowledge of plant functions
• Agricultural knowledge in planting, harvesting, and equipment
• Good working knowledge of general agricultural practices
• Highly focused on attention to detail
• Strong organizational skills
• Must have a professional, personable approach to all internal and external customers
• Take initiative and able to work with a sense of urgency in a fast-paced environment
• Take ownership of issues and pursue resolution of issues
• Planning skills must include the ability to formulate and maintain schedules for multiple priorities. Planning includes crop projections and planning schedules. This position must have the ability to formulate plans others will depend upon for extended periods.
• Must be an effective communicator (interpersonal, written and verbal) and be able to disseminate information proficiently and appropriately to a variety of audiences
• Must be self-motivated to continually improve self and processes
• Excellent analytical skills to employ problem solving techniques under various sorts of constraints and deadlines
• Able to balance shifting and competing priorities
• Able to learn quickly, develop, maintain and implement solutions
• The ability to perform work independently, think creatively and strategically while working in a team
• Excellent technical, computer skills and aptitude
• Ability to be on-call 24/7 during peak season

Travel

Must be able to travel up to 50% of time

Physical Requirements

Work is performed in and out of the office. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be subject to repetitive motion such as typing, data entry and vision to monitor. May be subject to bending, reaching, kneeling, stooping and lifting up to thirty (30) pounds.

While performing the duties of this job outside the office, the employee is regularly exposed to weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to wet or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles or chemicals. Working environment may be subject to climate conditions as it relates to the production manufacturing setting. In addition, noise level in the production area requires proper PPE.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential functions for this position and meet the physical requirements needed to perform them. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.