Grain Merchandiser
ABOUT POET
At POET, it is our mission to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. For over thirty-five years, our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and a leader in sustainable products in the world.
CULTURE IS KING AT POET
We’re all on the same team. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren’t just slogans on our walls. It’s the way we do things at POET. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It’s the best way to optimize health, wellness, and productivity in a sustainable way. We work hard. We play hard. We have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and we know how to celebrate wins!
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. When we show up to work at POET Grain, it’s our job to meet our customers’ needs as efficiently as possible while buying grain at the best possible value for POET.
As a Grain Merchandiser, you will have the chance to work directly with some of America’s best farmers and commercial grain companies, and look for other grain merchandising opportunities in our draw areas. This role combines producer engagement, customer service, and market analysis in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
This is an on-site position located in Hudson, SD.
What you’ll do
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Build and maintain relationships with farmers and commercial grain partners
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Procure grain through on-farm visits, phone calls, and customer meetings
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Analyze local supply/demand, competition, crop and market conditions to offer competitive bids
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Create and communicate marketing strategies tailored to customer needs
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Manage grain contracts, records, and customer database
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
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Bachelor’s degree in ag business, marketing, animal science, or a related field, or have 3-5 years of grain merchandising/origination/advisory experience
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Strong knowledge of grain marketing, contracts, and market drivers
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Background in sales and/or customer relations.
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Ability to seek out and build strong customer relationships and build a market territory
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Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
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Excellent organization and time management skills with a sense of urgency that drives results.
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Familiarity with the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the capability to learn new programs.
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BONUS POINTS: a demonstrated background of success.
STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE
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High level of personal integrity
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Interpersonal skills – ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization
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Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills
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Ability to embrace and promote change
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Innovative mindset
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Ability to think objectively
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Self-awareness in the face of uncertainty
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Ability to work both independently and in a team environment with a positive and friendly attitude
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Ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
WORK ENVIRONMENT
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Up to 50% travel will be part of the norm for this position to visit customers and attend meetings offsite. At times, overnight travel may be required.
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This position operates primarily 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 the most value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization. Each new team member’s position and compensation are carefully determined by considering their unique qualifications and skillset.
BENEFITS
For eligible team members
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Comprehensive benefits package: Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution
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Quarterly Profit-Sharing Bonuses and Bi-Annual Incentive Bonuses
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Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions
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401K with company match
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Paid time off and paid holidays – 40 hours available on day ONE!
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Paid Parental Leave
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Tuition reimbursement
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Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations
OTHER PERKS
For eligible team members
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A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually
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Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements
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Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements
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Discounted home and auto insurance
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.