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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise farmers on crop potential and provide tailored agronomic solutions.
- Company: Join Cates Grain and Seed, a trusted leader in the agricultural industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company vehicle, and access to cutting-edge research.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the farming community with innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Minimum two years' experience in agronomy and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of a respected team dedicated to agricultural innovation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Cates has been a cornerstone of Mid Canterbury’s grain and seed industry for over 50 years, working alongside generations of local farming families. As one of the region’s first independent grain and seed companies, they specialise in the multiplication, production, and marketing of clover, pasture seeds, cereals, pulses, and brassicas, supplying both domestic and international markets.
Their commitment to the future of agriculture is reflected in their research and development initiatives. As a principal shareholder in Plant Research NZ Ltd, they are one of the few grain and seed companies in New Zealand with their own research arm—developing innovative field pea, wheat, triticale, and oat varieties using advanced breeding techniques.
With the upcoming retirement of a highly valued team member, they are looking for an experienced Agronomist to join them. Reporting to the Sales Manager, you’ll work closely with farmers, providing expert advice and tailored solutions to help them maximise their crop potential and connect with global seed markets.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Advising and supporting arable and pastoral clients with expert agronomic solutions.
- Collaborating with the Agronomy team to identify opportunities and drive business growth.
- Partnering with key suppliers to deliver the best outcomes for farmers.
- Working alongside internal teams to ensure a seamless customer experience.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and sound computer literacy.
- A highly organised individual with a strong work ethic.
- Proven ability to develop and maintain trusted relationships with farmers and industry partners.
- A minimum of two years’ experience in agronomy or a related role, with solid knowledge of the agricultural sector.
The Benefits of Joining Cates
- Be part of a long-established, respected company with deep roots in the industry.
- Work alongside a team of highly experienced agronomists who are committed to innovation.
- Access cutting-edge research and new crop varieties through dedicated research and development partnerships.
- Enjoy a competitive remuneration package, including a company vehicle.
The Details
This is a full-time, permanent position based in Canterbury, primarily covering Darfield and the surrounding areas. If you’re looking to join a company that values innovation, strong relationships, and real impact in the farming community, we’d love to hear from you. Applicants must hold New Zealand Residency or Citizenship. All applications will be handled with strict confidence.
Agronomist | Cates Grain and Seed employer: Farmers Weekly
Contact Detail:
Farmers Weekly Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Agronomist | Cates Grain and Seed
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the agricultural sector, attend local farming events, and engage with industry groups. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your agronomy projects, successful collaborations, and innovative solutions you've provided. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Cates Grain and Seed thoroughly. Understand their values, recent projects, and how they contribute to the agricultural community. Tailor your responses to show how you can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Cates team and contributing to their mission in the agricultural sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Agronomist | Cates Grain and Seed
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Agronomist role at Cates. Highlight your relevant experience in agronomy and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about agriculture and how your background aligns with Cates' mission. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the industry.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear and concise language, and don’t hesitate to share examples of how you've successfully communicated with farmers or industry partners in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Farmers Weekly
✨Know Your Crops
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of clover, pasture seeds, cereals, pulses, and brassicas. Being able to discuss specific varieties and their benefits will show that you're not just familiar with the industry but also genuinely interested in what Cates Grain and Seed does.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key for this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with farmers or industry partners in the past. Think about times when you provided expert advice or tailored solutions that made a real difference.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Cates is looking for someone highly organised, so come prepared with examples of how you've managed multiple projects or tasks simultaneously. Discuss any tools or methods you use to stay organised and ensure you meet deadlines.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask questions about their experiences at Cates and share your own stories that relate to the farming community. This will help demonstrate your ability to develop trusted relationships with farmers and industry partners.
