Agronomy and Sustainability Specialist in Hillsboro, North Dakota at Rahr Malting Co

RahrBSG is looking for a Agronomy and Sustainability Specialist to join our team in Hillsboro North Dakota. The Agronomy and Sustainability Specialist is responsible for barley grower relations and overall barley quality and condition standards. This position closely collaborates with procurement and barley quality teams to meet customer demands and communicate with growers on the company’s needs and expectations. The Agronomy and Sustainability Specialist works on grower practices, variety improvements, and sustainability by executing on company initiatives and collaborating cross-functionally to enhance business execution through regular communication and accountability.

BENEFITS & PERKS:

• Competitive Starting Base Salary Between 60,000 - $65,000 annually depending on qualifications
• Annual Bonus
• Medical benefits with coverage paid for at 90%
• Dental and Vison Programs
• Generous Annual 401(k) Company Contribution of 15%
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Life Insurance
• Short Term Disability
• Long Term Disability
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Generous PTO
• Sick Time
• 12 Paid Company Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Career Growth and Progression Paths

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Agronomy and Grower Relations

• Nurture and develop barley grower relations and partnerships, ensuring that established quality, cost management, and competitive strategies are leveraged.
• Make recommendations to barley growers on farm practices to ensure they are growing the barley that meets or exceeds the company’s barley quality standards.
• Collect land descriptions and total acres for Act of God (AOG) contracts to ensure enough acres are seeded to meet contractual requirements.
• Track growth of barley crop during growing season while confirming that contracted acres are seeded.
• Follow up on AOG claims to ensure the company is being treated fairly and consistent across the network of growers.
• Collect agronomy information from growers to ensure they are using chemicals labeled for malting barley and at the rate instructed.
• Track post harvest barley yields to measure acceptance on AOG contracts.
• Participate in grower meetings, field days, and training sessions to share best practices and sustainability initiatives.

Sustainability

• Facilitate the company’s sustainability initiatives under the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) platform by working with a select group of growers and following through with third party audits.
• Partner with universities and breeders to support barley variety trials and collaboration that provide successful results for both growers and the company.
• Collaborate with universities and industry networks on variety trials to determine which varieties are worth pursuing.
• Attend and actively participate in corporate sustainability meetings.
• Assist with documentation and data gathering for internal and external sustainability reporting, including documentation for ESG disclosures and customer requirements.
• Partner with the internal team on creating Scope 3 emissions reporting methods.
• Educate growers on the benefits of reducing farm emissions.
• Stay informed on emerging sustainability trends, regulations, and certifications relevant to agriculture and grain sourcing.

Data and Analytics

Continuous Improvement

• Participate in on-going educational opportunities and stay abreast of the industry by studying professional publications, maintaining industry networks, and participating in professional organizations.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities assigned to support the company and its operational needs.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of agronomic principles related to barley or row crops.
• Understanding of sustainable agriculture practices and environmental impact metrics.
• Ability to interpret agronomic and environmental data and translate insights into actionable recommendations.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, particularly with agricultural stakeholders.
• Strong problem solver that can identify and resolve problems in a timely manner by gathering and analyzing information, developing alternative solutions, and using analytical reasoning skills to drive groups to a successful solution.
• Self-starting and motivated, with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with operational team members at varying levels.
• Proficiency with data tools (Excel, GIS tools, or farm data platforms) preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a seasonal, field-driven environment.
• Willingness to travel to grower locations and field sites as needed.

Rahr is a family-owned global leader and trusted partner to the craft beverage industry, proudly supporting breweries, wineries, distilleries, cideries, and storefronts with premium supplies and ingredients since 1847. With over 175 years of expertise, Rahr combines tradition with innovation to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the craft beverage community.

Headquartered in Shakopee, MN, Rahr Corporation is a fifth-generation family business. We are committed to providing the highest quality products and services to our customers, ensuring they can create beverages that inspire and delight. Our offerings include an extensive range of barley malts, hops, adjuncts, and other brewing essentials, designed to support beverage makers of all sizes and styles.

At Rahr, we value quality, innovation, and collaboration. We’re passionate about crafting excellence and fostering the growth of the craft beverage industry while upholding our family-owned values and commitment to sustainability. Join us and become part of a legacy dedicated to supporting the artistry and success of beverage makers worldwide.