Associate Sales Agronomist Program

Purpose

The Associate Sales Program is a structured development track designed to prepare individuals for a full-time Regional Sales Agronomist role. Through hands-on experience, classroom-style learning, and mentorship, participants gain a deep understanding of agronomic practices, sales techniques, and customer relationship management within the cooperative system.

Program Objectives

• Build foundational knowledge in crop production, soil science, and product performance.
• Develop professional selling and communication skills to effectively serve growers.
• Learn the cooperative’s products, services, and operational processes.
• Gain real-world experience working with experienced agronomists in the field.
• Transition into an independent sales territory within 12–24 months

Program Structure

Length: Typically, 12–24 months, depending on prior experience and performance.
Format: A blend of field experience, classroom training, and mentorship.

Phase 1: Orientation & Foundations (0–3 months)

• Introduction to the cooperative’s structure, mission, and core values.
• Safety and Oakland training.
• Overview of agronomy operations, logistics, and sales processes.
• Product knowledge introduction (seed, fertilizer, crop protection, precision ag tools).

Phase 2: Agronomic & Technical Training (4–9 months)

• Hands-on training in soil sampling, crop scouting, and yield analysis.
• Hands-on applicating once Custom Application License is obtained.
• Field experience with senior agronomists on customer farms.
• Vendor and manufacturer product training sessions.
• Begin assisting in writing basic crop plans and recommendations.

Phase 3: Sales Development (10–18 months)

• Training in sales strategy, customer service, and territory management.
• Shadowing sales agronomists on sales calls and grower meetings.
• Begin managing a small group of accounts under supervision.
• Complete training on financing options.
• Use Oakland, Agronomy Operations and precision ag platforms for sales tracking, dispatching and customer planning.

Phase 4: Transition to Regional Sales Agronomist (18–24 months)

• Independent sales responsibility.
• Continued mentorship and performance evaluation.
• Final review and readiness assessment for promotion to full-time Regional Sales Agronomist.

Phase 5: Independent Territory Development (24–36 months)

• Full ownership of customer relationships.
• Annual sales accountability.
• Mentoring incoming associate agronomists.

Certification & Continuing Education

• Commercial Applicator License
• CDL certification
• CCA exam preparation
• Precision ag certifications (as needed)

Compensation upon Completion and Promotion to Regional Sales Agronomist

·       Company vehicle

• Microsoft Surface
• Commission pay
• Bonus eligibility

Key Program Components

• Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from experienced agronomists or sales managers.
• • Monthly development meetings
  • Quarterly goal-setting sessions
  • Annual performance review and career planning
• Technical Training: Agronomy best practices, crop protection, seed placement, and precision technology.
• Sales Training: Consultative selling, communication, and customer relationship management.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Operations, logistics, finance, and cooperative business practices.
• Performance Feedback: Regular check-ins, progress reviews, and skill assessments.

Ideal Candidate

• Recent graduate in Agronomy, Crop Science, Ag Business, or related field.
• Strong interest in agronomy and ag sales.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel and work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Team-oriented, motivated, and eager to learn.