Job Description
Job Description
ABOUT THE APPRENTICESHIP
As an Agronomy apprentice at Heritage Cooperative, you’ll be at the forefront of agricultural innovation, supporting the H-Plot network—an initiative designed to showcase the latest advancements in agronomy products and technology. Apprentices play a hands-on role in planting, maintaining, and collecting data from demonstration plots, directly contributing to the evaluation of seed performance and crop protection strategies. You’ll also collaborate with the marketing team to develop impactful content that highlights key agronomy initiatives, engaging both customers and internal staff.
Beyond the H-Plot initiative, apprentices gain broad exposure to agronomy operations and sales across Heritage Cooperative’s territory. This experience offers a unique perspective on how a leading agronomy retailer supports growers throughout the season, from crop protection and fertility management to seed selection and agronomic services. By participating in these essential functions, apprentices not only build technical expertise but also help drive the cooperative’s mission to deliver superior customer service and innovative solutions to the agricultural community.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Currently pursuing a degree in Agronomy or related agricultural discipline
Ability to travel independently to local H-PLOTs
Valid driver's license with acceptable MVR
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Prior knowledge or experience with crop physiology, applicating and herbicides is a plus
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Serve as a positive representation of Heritage Cooperative’s Core Values
- Provide Superior Customer Service
- Highest Standards of Integrity and Trust
- Continuous Improvement
- Being a Good Partner
- Gain hands-on experience with key crop protection products from both a technical agronomic perspective and as an applicator.
- Understand how and why crop protection products are positioned with growers, including timing, application methods, and value demonstration.
- Learn and apply foundational knowledge of herbicide programs for corn and soybean production.
- Participate in implementing and evaluating basic and advanced plant health and fertility programs.
- Practice core agronomic principles daily, including basic crop physiology, integrated pest management (IPM), and fertility strategies.
- Abide by all safety regulations to ensure safety of oneself, coworkers and customers
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, wind, and sun exposure.
Walk, stand, and bend for extended periods while performing field scouting and application duties.
Lift, carry, and transport equipment or product containers up to 40–50 lbs as needed.
Operate or ride in farm equipment, utility vehicles, and trucks on uneven or rough terrain.
Tolerate exposure to dust, pollen, crop residues, insects, and agricultural chemicals while following all safety protocols and PPE requirements.
Navigate fields, plots, and test sites that may include mud, uneven ground, or obstructed pathways.
Safely handle, mix, and apply crop protection products under supervision and according to label guidelines.
DISCLAIMER
The job description is not intended to cover or describe all tasks, duties and responsibilities the employee may be required to be asked to perform. Heritage Cooperative retains the right to change or add new tasks, duties and responsibilities at any time, with or without notice to the employee.
WORK AUTHORIZATION
Evidence of work authorization upon employment is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Completion of USCIS form I-9 will be required in order to verify employment eligibility within 3 business days of the first day of employment.
AAP/EEO STATEMENT
Heritage Cooperative provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Heritage Cooperative complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Heritage Cooperative expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Heritage Cooperative’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including termination.