Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Grain Tester

🎯 Role Definition

As a Grain Tester, you are the frontline guardian of quality within our grain elevator and the broader agricultural supply chain. This position is far more than just a job; it's a critical function that ensures the integrity, safety, and value of the grain that feeds our communities. You will be directly responsible for analyzing and grading incoming and outgoing grain, making key decisions that impact producers and the company's bottom line. We're looking for a diligent and detail-oriented individual who understands the importance of accuracy and can thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, especially during the busy harvest seasons. Your work directly supports our commitment to providing high-quality products.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer (Agricultural/Elevator)
Farm Hand or Agricultural Technician
Lab Assistant (any industry)

Advancement To:

Lead Grain Grader / Quality Control Supervisor
Grain Merchandiser or Merchandiser Assistant
Grain Elevator Superintendent or Manager

Lateral Moves:

Quality Assurance Technician (Food Production)
Inventory Control Specialist
Lab Technician (Food Science)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Methodically collect representative grain samples from various inbound and outbound conveyances, including trucks and railcars, utilizing approved probing techniques to ensure the sample accurately reflects the entire load.
Conduct precise and timely grading and analysis of various grain commodities such as corn, soybeans, and wheat, according to established company and federal standards.
Skillfully operate and maintain a range of specialized grain testing equipment, including moisture meters, protein analyzers, and test weight scales, ensuring they are properly calibrated for accurate readings.
Accurately identify, quantify, and document all grading factors, including but not limited to moisture content, test weight, foreign material, splits, and various types of grain damage.
Diligently and accurately record all grading results and associated data onto scale tickets and into the company’s digital management system for inventory and settlement purposes.
Clearly and professionally communicate grading results, including any quality issues or necessary discounts, to truck drivers, agricultural producers, and internal team members.
Ensure all testing and grading procedures are performed in strict compliance with USDA and Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) regulations and standards.
Perform routine calibration checks and preventative maintenance on all grading equipment to guarantee consistent and accurate performance, reporting any malfunctions for repair.
Make informed and objective decisions to reject inbound loads that do not meet minimum quality specifications or to apply appropriate quality discounts based on established schedules.
Maintain a meticulously clean, safe, and organized work area within the grading station and scale house to ensure an efficient and professional environment.
Actively monitor the condition and quality of grain held in storage by performing regular sampling and testing from bins, reporting any changes or concerns to management.
Collaborate with operations personnel to direct the proper binning and segregation of grain based on its specific quality characteristics, such as moisture, grade, and protein levels.
Prepare, package, and accurately label grain samples for submission to third-party or central laboratories for more detailed or official analysis as directed.
Rigorously adhere to all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and best practices, particularly when working at heights or around moving vehicles and heavy machinery.
Manage the grain sample retention process by correctly labeling, cataloging, and storing official and file samples for the required period for verification and reference.

Secondary Functions

Provide backup support to the scale house operator during peak traffic periods, which includes weighing trucks in and out and ensuring accurate ticket information.
Assist with general housekeeping duties throughout the facility, including the scale, office, and surrounding grounds, to contribute to a safe and clean workplace.
Participate actively in ongoing training sessions and professional development opportunities to stay current with evolving grading techniques, standards, and new technologies.
Collaborate with the grain merchandising team by providing them with timely and precise quality data that informs purchasing strategies and sales contracts.
Contribute to accurate inventory management by providing detailed reports on the quality and characteristics of grain within the storage system.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Grain Grading Expertise: Deep understanding of USDA/FGIS grain standards and the ability to visually identify various grain damage factors and foreign materials.
Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating, calibrating, and performing basic maintenance on grain analysis equipment (e.g., DICKEY-john, Perten instruments).
Mathematical Aptitude: Strong ability to perform basic math, including calculating percentages and applying discount schedules accurately.
Computer & Data Entry: Competency in using computers for accurate data entry into proprietary grain management software and basic use of Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook).
Mechanical Aptitude: Basic understanding of how grain handling equipment (probes, conveyors, elevators) operates for safe and effective sampling.
Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, work in environments with dust and fluctuating temperatures, and safely climb stairs and ladders on grain bins and transport vehicles.
Heavy Lifting: Capacity to regularly lift and carry objects, such as grain samples and equipment, weighing up to 50 pounds.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for detail is non-negotiable, as small errors in grading can have significant financial consequences.
Clear Communication: The ability to communicate technical grading information clearly and respectfully to a diverse audience, including farmers and truck drivers.
Integrity and Objectivity: A strong ethical foundation to perform grading duties impartially and consistently, without bias.
Composure Under Pressure: The ability to remain focused, efficient, and accurate during the high-stress, fast-paced harvest season.
Problem-Solving: Resourcefulness to troubleshoot minor equipment issues and handle disputed grading results calmly and professionally.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED is required.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Agribusiness or Agricultural Economics
Agronomy or Crop Science
Food Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-3 years of relevant experience. We are open to training a dedicated candidate with a strong agricultural background and a willingness to learn.

Preferred:

1+ years of direct experience working as a Grain Grader or Inspector in a grain elevator setting is highly preferred.
Previous experience in a quality control or lab technician role within the food or agricultural industry.