Grain Merchandiser

POET; Gowrie Township (IA); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive bonus opportunities

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

POET is seeking a Grain Merchandiser to efficiently meet customer needs while acquiring grain at the best value. This role involves building relationships with farmers, analyzing market conditions, and creating marketing strategies tailored to customer needs.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in agricultural business or related field, along with strong knowledge of grain marketing. Join POET and be part of a team that values integrity and growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural business, or related field, or 3–5 years of grain merchandising experience.
• Strong knowledge of grain marketing and market conditions.
• Ability to seek out and build customer relationships.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with farmers and commercial grain partners.
• Procure grain through on-farm visits and customer meetings.
• Analyze local supply/demand and offer competitive bids.

Skills

Agricultural business knowledge

Sales experience

Communication skills

Time management skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field or 3–5 years of relevant experience

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

BENEFITS & PERKS

Eligible Team Members may receive competitive bonus opportunities, up to six bonuses per year (Quarterly Profit Sharing & Value Share) and other financial incentives.

• Paid time off and paid holidays - 40 hours of PTO available on Day 1, on top of a biweekly PTO accrual program.
• Comprehensive benefits package: Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution.
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Attractive relocation assistance and bonus programs for qualifying positions and/or locations.
• Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements.
• Discounted home and auto insurance.
• Multi‑faceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually.
• Family‑first culture.
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements.

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES

POET Grain is a leader in the grain market, buying nearly a billion bushels of grain annually from over 30,000 local farmers. The Grain Merchandiser role involves meeting customers’ needs efficiently while acquiring grain at the best possible value for POET.

• Build and maintain relationships with farmers and commercial grain partners.
• Procure grain through on‑farm visits, phone calls, and customer meetings.
• Analyze local supply/demand, competition, crop and market conditions to offer competitive bids.
• Create and communicate marketing strategies tailored to customer needs.
• Manage grain contracts, records, and customer database.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural business, marketing, animal science, or a related field, or 3–5 years of grain merchandising/origination/advisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of grain marketing, contracts, and market drivers.
• Background in sales and/or customer relations.
• Ability to seek out and build strong customer relationships and build a market territory.
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organization and time‑management skills with a sense of urgency that drives results.
• Familiarity with the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and capability to learn new programs.
• Bonus points: demonstrated background of success.

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• High level of personal integrity.
• Interpersonal skills – ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
• Ability to embrace and promote change.
• Innovative mindset.
• Ability to think objectively.Self‑awareness in the face of uncertainty.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment with a positive and friendly attitude.
• Ability to prioritize in a fast‑paced environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Up to 50% travel will be part of the norm for this position to visit customers and attend meetings off‑site. At times, overnight travel may be required. This position primarily operates in an office environment, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand.

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

At POET we encourage internal development and growth by allowing team members to carve their own path to success. Leaders support team members with the necessary resources to develop their skills, achieve goals, and create maximum value.

EEO Statement

POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, merit, and other legitimate business factors, without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.