Agronomist (18-month contract)
The Agronomist is responsible for all aspects of potato production with Cavendish Farms contract potato growers. This may include assisting with field selection, planting, fertility and crop protection planning, irrigation management, and potato storage management.
Improving and educating on all these aspects will increase operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and ultimately profitability of the company and its growers. The Agronomist will need to be up to date with new innovations, technology, and develop industry contacts and sources that will aid in their line of expertise.
Responsibilities
- Visit growers to maintain strong business relationships. Address any issues they may have, monitor potato storages for quality, and monitor fields.
- Work closely with the Field Superintendent to assess grower issues, potato requirements, and organize potato deliveries.
- Maintain and enhance grower relationships. Participate in Potato Growers of Alberta yearly meeting etc.
- Work closely with the Production staff to determine their needs and to balance the potatoes.
- Report food safety and quality issues to personnel with authority to initiate actions.
- Commitment to Quality System Policy.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture.
- CCA (Certified Crop Advisor) or eligible for the certification and pesticide application license.
- Minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience required.
- Exposure to a food operating plant environment would be an asset.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to manage conflict and build teams.
- A proven track record of being pro-active and taking initiative.
About the Team
Cavendish Farms is a leading producer of frozen food products for retail and foodservice markets throughout Canada, the United States, and around the world. We have two state-of-the-art potato processing plants in PEI, one in Lethbridge, AB and another in Jamestown, ND. Headquartered in Dieppe, NB, the company also operates an appetizer plant in Wheatley, ON and has sales office locations in Toronto and Boston.