Foundation Production Technician

AgReliant Genetics; Warrensburg (IL); On-site; USD 26,491 - 33,117; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Generous vacation time & paid holidays

Volunteer Time Off

Paid parental leave

Tuition and Health Club reimbursement

Company paid disability and life insurance

Job summary

AgReliant Genetics is seeking a Foundation Production Technician in Warrensburg, Illinois. This role supports seed production operations through fieldwork and equipment maintenance, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.

The ideal candidate should have strong communication and organizational skills, the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and must fulfill physical requirements essential for the role.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in seed production or agriculture preferred.
• Ability to operate agricultural and warehouse equipment safely after training.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field operations including planting and harvest support.
• Operate various production equipment safely.
• Complete production and compliance documentation correctly.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Strong organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Basic computing skills in Microsoft Office

Commitment to safety and quality

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical, vocational, or agricultural training

Tools

Forklift

Agricultural equipment

Job description

Job Summary

The Foundation Production Technician plays a key role in supporting foundation seed production operations, including fieldwork, seed conditioning, packaging, and equipment maintenance. This position supports seed quality, operational efficiency, and compliance with company standards related to safety, accuracy, and teamwork. The role also provides support for warehousing, shipping, and seasonal production activities as needed.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist with field operations, including planting, scouting, and harvest support.
• Operate machinery including but not limited to planters, harvest equipment, detasseling equipment.
• Operate dryers, shellers, forklifts, and other production equipment safely and efficiently.
• Support bulk seed handling, movement, inventory management, and shipment preparation.
• Perform seed conditioning, treating, packaging, and labeling activities according to quality standards.
• Complete production, inventory, and compliance documentation accurately and timely.
• Perform routine housekeeping, preventive maintenance, and general upkeep of equipment and facilities.
• Assist with warehousing activities, load building, and shipment verification.
• Support and promote a safe work environment by following all company safety policies and procedures.
• Lead and provide directions to temporary or seasonal employees during peak production activities.
• Utilize productivity tracking tools and operational systems as directed by site leadership.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing operational needs.
• Basic problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other PC‑based systems.
• Ability to operate agricultural and warehouse equipment safely after proper training.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company Motor Vehicle Record requirements.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical, vocational, or agricultural training is preferred.
• Previous experience in seed production, agriculture, grain handling, warehousing, or related operations preferred.
• Experience operating forklifts or agricultural equipment preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provide day‑to‑day directions and support to temporary and seasonal employees during production activities.
• Assist in coordinating workflow and daily operational priorities for temporary labor during peak seasons.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 65 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and work in physically demanding environments for extended periods.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wet, and dusty environments.
• Ability to walk seed fields up to 5 miles per day as needed.
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, and seasonal extended hours when required.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match (eligible 1st of the month following date of hire)
• Generous vacation time & paid holidays
• Volunteer Time Off
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition and Health Club reimbursement
• Company paid Long‑term and short‑term disability insurance, company paid life insurance and optional supplemental life insurance, health savings account with a company contribution, and Flexible Spending Account

Compensation

The approximate pay range in Illinois for this position is $19.23 to $24.04 an hour. Performance‑based incentives are available based on individual and company achievements. Final compensation for a candidate is commensurate with experience, skills, and education.

GDM is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are proud to welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage you to apply.