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Form of workSeed Production Specialist
Seed Production Specialist
Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc. (IFSI) is an independent company delivering leading research, product development, licensing, and production for the seed industry’s sweet corn and field crops.
Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc. is seeking a highly motivated Seed Production Specialist to play a pivotal role in supporting the Field Operations Manager in overseeing tillage, planting, crop maintenance, chemical and fertilizer programs, and seed harvest operations for all fields at our Harvard, IL location. As an integral member of the management team, the Seed Production Specialist is expected to actively participate in management meetings and provide project leadership as directed.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
- Operational Management:
- Assist the Field Operations Manager in evaluating internal cost versus outsourcing for various farm operations, such as chemical and fertilizer programs, labor and harvesting needs
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the annual Seed Production plan, including managing tillage and chemical and fertilizer programs, planting schedules, and assisting with seed harvest operations
- .Crop Planning and Management:
- Collaborate on the Spring/Fall tillage and fertilizer program
- Provide input on commodities to be planted, develop planting schedules, and assist in the seed harvesting operations
- Assist with the soil sampling program
- Assist with flagging fields and maintaining the proper isolation
- Training and Development:
- Train company personnel in the safe and proper operation of farm equipment, including GPS technology equipment and software
- Provide support to seed drying, processing, storage, and treatment operations, ensuring adherence to procedures and recommending improvements
- Assist in training team members on seed processing and treatment equipment
- Record Keeping and Reporting:
- Manage internal work orders and maintain log records for all fertilizer and chemical applications
- Ensure accurate records of processed seed lots and support upgrades to seed processing and treating equipment
- Other Duties:
- Provide back-up to the Field Operations Manager and Quality Control Lead as needed
- Support maintenance needs of the farm’s equipment and facilities
- Support seed treating operations, including mixing chemical treatment recipes, and bagging seed per customer request
- Adhere to best practices for seed processing and storage areas
- Qualifications/Knowledge Needed:
- Competency in operating farm equipment and machinery
- Ability to work independently, create schedules, and manage timely farm activities
- Proficiency in gathering, recording, and reporting data
- In-depth knowledge of GPS application monitoring systems
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word
- Strong work ethic focused on productivity, accuracy, and timeliness
- Flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced work environment
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Requires maintaining an active commercial applicator license and treatment license
- Ability to lift 75 pounds
- Capability to work long hours and weekends during critical periods of the growing season (e.g., planting, detasseling, and harvesting)
- Capability to work in varying weather conditions, including high heat, humidity, and rain
- Potential exposure to allergens and chemical pesticides in the field
- Proficiency in using standard office, warehouse, and farming equipment
- Clear vision and hearing capabilities
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving history
Benefits:
- Salary commensurate with experience
- Full benefit package: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, STD, LTD, 40lk
Reporting:
The Seed Production Specialist of the Twin Gardens Business Unit reports to the Field Operations Manager. The Seed Production Specialist provides daily work direction to production workers.
IFSI is an equal opportunity employer
