Job Description: Ag Retail & Bulk Plant Manager
The Location Manager is responsible for the overall profitability, operational efficiency, and safety of the retail store and the bulk fertilizer/feed plant. This role directs day-to-day operations, manages inventory, ensures strict regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, Dept. of Ag), leads a team of operational and sales staff, and maintains strong relationships with local agricultural producers and co-op members.
Core Responsibilities
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Plant & Warehouse Operations: Oversee the blending, storage, and distribution of bulk fertilizer and livestock feed. Ensure all equipment (blenders, leg systems, conveyors, rolling stock) is properly maintained and operating at peak efficiency.
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Retail & Sales Management: Drive retail storefront profitability. Manage product displays, local marketing, and retail customer service. Work closely with sales staff or agronomists to ensure timely delivery of custom feed mixes and fertilizer applications to fields.
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Inventory & Logistics Control: Oversee precision inventory management for bulk ingredients (nitrogen, potash, phosphate, micronutrients, grain commodities) and retail products. Coordinate inbound rail or semi logistics and outbound custom application equipment.
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Regulatory & Safety Compliance: Maintain zero-incident safety standards. Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and state Department of Agriculture regulations regarding bulk chemical/fertilizer containment, dust control (for feed/grain safety), and hazardous materials. Lead routine safety training and facility audits.
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Financial Performance: Manage the location’s profit and loss (P&L) statement. Develop annual budgets, manage operational expenses, approve local credit terms, and optimize labor costs.
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Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and supervise warehouse operators, custom applicators, retail clerks, and delivery drivers. Foster a culture of accountability and team safety.
Required Qualifications
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Experience: 3–5+ years of experience in agricultural retail management, agronomy operations, or feed/fertilizer plant management.
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Education: Degree in Agribusiness, Agronomy, Animal Science, or Business Administration preferred; equivalent hands-on operational leadership experience highly valued.
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Certifications/Licenses: Ability to obtain or maintain a commercial pesticide/fertilizer applicators license or Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) credential is a plus. Valid driver’s license required; CDL is a strong asset.
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Skills: Strong mechanical aptitude (understanding plant flow and equipment maintenance), proficient in ag-specific ERP/inventory software, and excellent communication skills for dealing with both farm laborers and commercial growers.
