Grain Originator/Merchandiser

Rock River Lumber & Grain; Prophetstown (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural firm located in Prophetstown, IL is seeking a Grain Merchandiser to manage grain procurement, support producer relations, and oversee rail shipment billing. This entry-level role requires experience in grain merchandising and strong attention to detail. The ideal candidate will help ensure accurate billing and documentation while communicating market trends to producers and coordinating with various departments. Full-time position in Finance and Sales offers opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Experience in grain merchandising, grain procurement, or grain accounting.
• Understanding of futures markets, basis, and grain contracts.
• Strong attention to detail, especially with billing and documentation.
• Good communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Purchase grain from producers using various contracts.
• Manage daily bids and communicate market conditions.
• Assist producers with contract explanations.
• Bill grain trains shipped on the Union Pacific Railroad.
• Prepare and submit rail documentation.

Skills

Grain merchandising

Grain procurement

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Job description

The Grain Merchandiser is responsible for grain procurement, producer contracting, merchandising support, and rail shipment billing. This role focuses on managing producer relationships, daily grain bids, contract execution, futures and basis support, and accurate billing of grain trains shipped on the Union Pacific Railroad. The position works closely with the Grain Division Manager, operations, and accounting to ensure efficient grain movement and proper risk management.

Key Responsibilities

Grain Procurement & Producer Relations

• Purchase grain from producers using cash, forward, basis, and other approved contracts
• Manage daily bids in coordination with the Grain Division Manager
• Communicate market conditions and pricing opportunities to producers
• Assist producers with contract explanations and follow-up
• Support futures and basis risk management activities under established policies
• Maintain accurate hedge, position, and contract records
• Monitor basis levels, spreads, and freight conditions
• Assist with seasonal and long-term merchandising strategies
• Bill grain trains shipped on the Union Pacific Railroad
• Prepare and submit accurate rail documentation in a timely manner
• Coordinate with elevator operations, accounting, and railroad contacts
• Track shipped volumes, freight, and demurrage records

Coordination & Compliance

• Work closely with operations to manage space, quality, and shipping schedules
• Ensure contracts, rail bills, and records are complete and accurate
• Follow company policies, risk limits, and regulatory requirements

Qualifications

Required

• Experience in grain merchandising, grain procurement, or grain accounting
• Understanding of futures markets, basis, and grain contracts
• Strong attention to detail, especially with billing and documentation
• Good communication and organizational skills

Preferred

• Experience billing rail shipments (UP Railroad preferred)
• Familiarity with unit or shuttle train operations
• 2–5 years of experience in a grain elevator or cooperative
• Series 3 license or ability to obtain

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Finance and Sales

Industries

Retail

Location: Prophetstown, IL