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.
