Grain Merchandiser
POET
Summary
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.
Job description
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
- Build and maintain relationships with farmers and commercial grain partners
- Procure grain through on-farm visits, phone calls, and customer meetings
- Analyze local supply/demand, competition, crop and market conditions to offer competitive bids
- Create and communicate marketing strategies tailored to customer needs
- Manage grain contracts, records, and customer database
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelor's degree in ag business, marketing, animal science, or a related field, or have 3-5 years of grain merchandising/origination/advisory experience
- Strong knowledge of grain marketing, contracts, and market drivers
- Background in sales and/or customer relations
- Ability to seek out and build strong customer relationships and build a market territory
- Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
- Excellent organization and time management skills with a sense of urgency that drives results
- Familiarity with the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the capability to learn new programs
- BONUS POINTS: a demonstrated background of success
Strengths of a Successful Candidate
- High level of personal integrity
- Interpersonal skills – ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization
- Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Ability to embrace and promote change
- Innovative mindset
- Ability to think objectively
- Self-awareness in the face of uncertainty
- Ability to work both independently and in a team environment with a positive and friendly attitude
- Ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
Work Environment
- 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.
- This position operates primarily in an office environment, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in ag business, marketing, animal science, or a related field, or 3-5 years of grain merchandising/origination/advisory experience
- Strong knowledge of grain marketing, contracts, and market drivers
- Background in sales and/or customer relations
- Ability to seek out and build strong customer relationships and build a market territory
- Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
- Excellent organization and time management skills with a sense of urgency that drives results
- Familiarity with the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the capability to learn new programs
Benefits
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account
- Profit-Sharing Bonuses
- Incentive Bonuses
- 401(k) Matching
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Relocation Assistance
- Wellness Program
- Fitness Center
Company overview
POET is the world's largest producer of biofuel and a global leader in sustainable bioproducts, founded in 1987 and headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The company operates 35 bioprocessing facilities across the Midwest, three corporate offices, four terminal locations, and employs nearly 2,600 team members. POET specializes in creating plant-based alternatives to fossil fuels, leveraging biotechnology to convert renewable agricultural resources into bioethanol, distillers grains, corn fermented protein, distillers corn oil, bioCO2, dry ice, purified alcohol, and asphalt rejuvenator. With more than 140 U.S. patents, POET has established itself as an innovator in the biotechnology sector, focusing on reducing dependence on foreign oil, revitalizing global agriculture, and creating sustainable energy solutions. The company's integrated business model combines research and development with expertise in design, construction, technology, operations, public affairs, and marketing, positioning it as a comprehensive leader in the renewable energy and bioproducts industry.