Grain Elevator Operator

Farmward & Ag; Danube (MN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

HSA with employer contributions

Life and disability insurance

401(k) match and pension

Job summary

Farmward Cooperative is hiring for a Grain Operations support role in Danube, MN. You will assist with receiving, weighing, grading, storage, and blending of grain, while helping customers and maintaining equipment reliability.

Responsibilities include maintenance, safety, housekeeping, and following credit policies. Flexible hours and weekend work may be required; a DOT physical and appropriate licenses are encouraged.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous equipment operation experience (payloader, forklift, or similar).
• Mechanically inclined with knowledge of agricultural equipment.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical and drug test.
• Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Responsibilities

• Support all operational functions of the facility including receiving, storing and handling grain.
• Perform routine and preventative maintenance and millwright work as needed.
• Provide customer service to farmer patrons and support retail merchandise sales.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work environment.

Skills

Lifting up to 75 lbs

Climbing ladders

Outdoor work

DOT physical & drug test readiness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Scale operation

Forklift operation

Payloader operation

Computer systems (Excel/Outlook)

Job description

We’re growing and looking for passionate individuals like you to grow with us. Explore our current openings and to be part of a team where your work truly matters—and where you’ll love what you do!

Location: Danube, MN

Job Id:133

# of Openings:1

Reports to:

Grain Operation Manager

Location:

Danube

Pay Range:

$18.00 - $22.00

None

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Position Summary

Responsible for supporting all operational functions of the facility, including receiving, storing, and handling grain while maintaining quality and safety standards. Performs routine and preventative maintenance, facility repairs, and millwright work to ensure equipment reliability and efficient operations. Provides customer service to farmer patrons by assisting with retail merchandise sales and delivering production support services. Contributes to a safe, organized, and productive work environment.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key Area

Tasks

Grain Receiving and Quality Control

Sample, weigh, and assign inspection grades to incoming grain to ensure accurate pricing.

Record all required and pertinent information on scale tickets accurately.

Communicate with patrons to determine proper grain disposition (storage, cash, or contract).

Ensure accurate weighing of grain to maintain fairness for both customers and the company.

Build patron confidence through consistent, accurate grain grading and handling practices.

Grain Handling and Storage

Properly bin grain to maintain condition and support effective blending.

Conduct periodic inspections of stored grain and perform conditioning or turning as necessary.

Blend grain during shipment to achieve optimal grade and maximize value.

Maintain accountability for efficient use of available storage space.

Facility Maintenance, Repairs, and Safety

Maintain a clean and orderly facility, ensuring daily cleanup of dust, debris, and grain spills.

Perform facility repairs and equipment maintenance, including millwright work as needed.

Monitor and report pest control concerns to the supervisor.

Follow all company safety policies and actively support safety improvement efforts.

Assist in developing and implementing housekeeping and preventative maintenance programs to minimize breakdowns and hazards.

Maintain accurate housekeeping and maintenance records for compliance (e.g., OSHA).

Customer Service and Public Relations

Provide excellent customer service by greeting and assisting patrons with all aspects of operations.

Handle customer questions and complaints professionally to maintain goodwill and strong relationships.

Promote a positive company image through professional interactions.

Administrative and Operational Support

• Feed and crop protection product handling
• Operating scale and computer systems

Perform additional duties as assigned and support other departments as needed.

Maintain a positive attitude that reflects company values and supports teamwork.

Receive positive feedback when assisting other departments and completing assigned tasks.

Credit and Policy Compliance

Adhere strictly to company credit policies, including:

• No charges on cash-on-delivery (COD) transactions
• No charges without approval from management or department head
• No charges exceeding established customer credit limits

Teamwork and Professional Conduct

Demonstrate professionalism and a team-oriented approach in all work activities.

Contribute to a cooperative and efficient work environment.

Support company goals through positive attitude and collaboration with coworkers.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous equipment operation experience (payloader, forklift, or similar).
• Mechanically inclined with a general knowledge of agricultural equipment.
• Prior fertilizer tower operating experience.
• General knowledge of the ag industry and products.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical examination and drug test.
• Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, Outlook). [edit as needed]

Licensing/Certifications (ability to obtain after hire)

• Class A CDL preferred.
• Class B CDL may be accepted upon hire, with the expectation that the employee will obtain a Class A CDL post‑hire; company assistance may be provided.
• Valid DOT medical/health card.
• Hazardous Materials and Tanker Endorsement required or ability to obtain.
• Willingness and ability to obtain forklift certification if not already licensed

Additional Requirements

• Must be available to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings and holidays. [edit as needed]
• Must have a positive attitude, strong work ethic, reliable attendance and willingness to learn.

Skills & Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Availability to work additional/extended hours during periods of high demand (spring and fall).
• Must maintain a driving record that meets insurance carrier requirements.
• Ability to lift, carry, and handle objects weighing up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to climb up to 15 feet using ladders.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and in confined or tight spaces.

Safety & Compliance

• Know and follow all Farmward Cooperative safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Take a proactive approach to eliminating safety hazards; alert the Safety Director immediately.
• Maintain awareness of hazardous materials and SDS/MSDS locations.
• Ensure all Federal, State, and OSHA regulations are met within your work area.
• Maintain a strong safety record by following all company safety procedures and reporting unsafe conditions immediately.

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.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 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

Growth & Development:

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

Position Perks: (In addition to our benefits package, this position may include)

• $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.