Southern States Cooperative, Inc. has a team of Recruiters whose primary focus is to seek skillful, motivated individuals to become members of the Southern States family. If you are looking for an environment that is challenging, and where your efforts are rewarded, be sure to browse our Employment Opportunities site for positions you have an interest in pursuing.
At Southern States, we understand that everyone's time is valuable. With that in mind, our team of Recruiters generally conduct telephone screenings to gather information from applicants that are under consideration for a position.

Careers
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Corporate Positions
| Position Title : Customer Service Representative |
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Work Location : Corporate Headquarters, Richmond, VA
Qualifications :
Based in our Corporate Headquarters in Richmond, VA, you will support the Fertilizer Division in the handling of all aspects of customer orders for shipments of fertilizer materials to retail locations and manage material requirements for fertilizer plants and terminals. You will handle placement and pricing of direct orders for Crops/Fertilizer. Work in conjunction with vendors and procurement personnel to ensure customer service needs and expectations are achieved throughout dealer network.
- Minimum two years of high level, fast-paced customer service experience involving cross-sectional complexities, order-taking environment preferred
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office, Windows and Internet
- Intermediate to advanced data entry/keyboarding skills
- Knowledge of Southern States retail stores and organizational structure or able to learn
- Demonstrated track record of superior customer service skills
- Excellent telephone, communication and decision-making skills
- Able to exercise tact, diplomacy and conflict resolution
- Able to perform effectively independently as well as in a team
- Able to work extended hours during peak season
- Valid Drivers License - Satisfactory Driving Record
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs, pass background check and drug screen
Education : High School Diploma or equivalent
Responsibilities :
- Receive orders and insure prompt, accurate placement for retail and plant fertilizer materials
- Place fertilizer material orders via EDI, fax and phone with suppliers for shipment to retail and plant locations
- Enter purchase orders and shipping information into WSS Fertilizer System using least cost sourcing
- Obtain shipping information and order status from suppliers and notify retail locations of same
- Administer and explain to dealers and customers various fill or special programs
- Accurately quote prices using Service Guide. Apply understanding of special pricing, freight codes and freight equalizations

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| Position Title : Auditor I |
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Work Location : Richmond, VA - Raleigh/Durham area
Qualifications :
Seeking individuals for an entry level Auditor I position to begin a developmental career with the Internal Audit Department of Southern States Cooperative, Inc. We provide an opportunity to build a strong understanding of audit function and compliance to company policy and procedures. Based out of your home, you will conduct field audits at retail locations within an assigned territory (Southern Virginia and North Carolina). Ideal candidate should be open to relocation to Raleigh/Durham area. You will travel throughout territory to conduct audits at over 30 retail locations.
- Understanding of basic audit processes
- Strong analytical ability
- Effective written/verbal communication, interpersonal and relationship building skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Discreet and trustworthy
- Ability to learn operational functions in retail stores and Retail/Corporate accounting
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
- Valid Drivers License – Satisfactory Driving Record
- Able to travel up to 85% with 50% overnight stays
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs, pass background check and drug screen
Education : Bachelors degree in Accounting, Agriculture or related business field to include an acceptable level of accounting coursework
Responsibilities :
- Learn administrative and operating functions in retail stores and Retail/Corporate Accounting Dept.
- Complete on-the-job training to include one wholesale and one special audit review
- Perform audits in a manner that demonstrates a full understanding of professional auditing standards
- Learn the basics of audit program development and demonstrate capability to develop audit programs with supervision
- Learn the basics of operational auditing and demonstrate ability to analyze operation concerns with supervision
- Complete an annual audit for at least 75% of assigned stores

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| Position Title : Internet Services Developer |
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Work Location : Corporate Headquarters, Richmond, VA
Qualifications :
This position will be based at our Corporate Headquarters in Richmond, VA. You will need to possess the skill set for Web design, development and communication that will facilitate Southern States’ ability to move forward. This position will require you to work closely with the existing Web team to integrate E-Commerce and the ongoing development of our Web sites. In partnership with our retail and wholesale divisions, we will need to assist them in determining how the company’s Web site will help grow our business. Moving forward, your role will be integral in helping Southern States progress with our social media development.
- Previous experience in Web development and content
- Experience with AspDotNetStoreFront a plus
- Knowledge of Commercial Social Media
- Proficient graphic development skills (Photoshop, Fireworks)
- Web programming experience (HTML, .NET, CSS) with a proven track record in launching successful interactive Web sites/applications
- Previous experience working in multiple scripting languages such as Javascript and AJAX
- Ability to take on individual Web projects and bring to completion
- Effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a member of a cross-unit team
- Able to prioritize tasks and use good judgment in providing Web services based on needs
- Valid Driver's License - satisfactory driving record
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Able to pass background check and drug screen
Education : Bachelors Degree in a technical field (a combination of training and experience may be considered in lieu of degree)
Responsibilities :
- Develop, design, implement and maintain public Web site to expand online presence of new initiatives such as E-Commerce, online store maintenance, targeted Web and e-mail campaigns, use of Social Media, etc. to meet business needs
- Provide direction to Departments in content development - develop Web content and functionality, making use of interactive and dynamic techniques
- Edit and maintain Web site and Intranet content. Work with images, resizing, modifying to make Web ready
- Monitor Web sit traffic (Google, Analytics) and make recommendations for improvements to content and promotions to increase both traffic and sales
- Create and implement the best way to organize, characterize and visualize vast amounts of information that is most appealing and useful to ensure a positive customer experience
- Add new functionality through industry standard Web and scripting tools to expand customers’ Web site experience
- Interact and work with a wide range of corporate divisions and retail stores to expand their sections of the company’s Web sites
- Utilize social media to communicate with customers through popular social network channels such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others
- Expand and maintain .NET code on Web site, working in conjunction with external development vendors

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| Position Title : Feed Sales & Technical Representative - Eastern NY & Massachusetts |
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Work Location : Based out of your home (travel throughout Eastern NY & Massachusetts)
Qualifications :
- Previous experience in dealer sales and equine nutrition programs that has included sales
- In-depth understanding and extensive knowledge of horse industry
- In-depth knowledge of equine business and market needs
- Able to sell feed packages to equine customers and prospects
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- Able to manage several projects simultaneously
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Able to travel up to 50%
- Valid Drivers License - satisfactory driving record
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Able to pass drug screen and background check
Education : Bachelor's Degree in Animal Nutrition (combination of training and experience may be considered in lieu of Degree)
Responsibilities :
- Apply sales techniques to increase equine feed market share, grow independent dealer business and meet sales goals
- Provide leadership and training to our retail employees
- Call on equine customers and prospects to sell feeding programs and provide technical expertise
- Conduct presentations at Producer meetings and sales events
- Maintain up-to-date competitor information to maximize sales strength and ability
- Work in tandem with Feed Division staff to achieve success retail success with feed, competitive prices and programs

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| Position Title : Feed Sales & Technical Representative (Central, KY) |
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Work Location : Based out of your home (Central, KY)
Qualifications :
- Previous experience in equine feed programs that has included sales
- In-depth understanding and extensive knowledge of equine industry
- Established business contacts within the horse industry
- In-depth knowledge of equine business and market needs
- Able to sale feed packages to Equine Farmers
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- Able to manage several projects simultaneously
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Able to travel up to 50%
- Valid Drivers License
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Able to pass drug screen and background check
Education : Bachelor's Degree in Animal Nutrition (combination of training and experience may be considered in lieu of degree)
Responsibilities :
- Apply sales techniques to increase equine feed market share and meet sales goals
- Provide leadership and training to our retail employees
- Call on Equine Farmers to sale feeding programs and provide technical expertise
- Conduct presentations at horse owner meetings and events
- Maintain up-to-date competitor information to maximize sales strength and ability
- Work in tandem with Feed Division staff to achieve success retail success with feed, competitive prices and programs

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| Position Title : Feed Sales & Technical Representative (Western, KY) |
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Work Location : Based out of your home (Western, KY)
Qualifications :
- Previous experience in beef and equine feed programs that has included sales
- In-depth understanding and extensive knowledge of beef and horse industry
- In-depth knowledge of beef and equine business and market needs
- Able to sale feed packages to Beef and Equine Farmers
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- Able to manage several projects simultaneously
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Able to travel up to 50%
- Valid Drivers License
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Able to pass drug screen and background check
Education : Bachelor's Degree in Animal Nutrition (combination of training and experience may be considered in lieu of Degree)
Responsibilities :
- Apply sales techniques to increase beef and equine feed market share and meet sales goals
- Provide leadership and training to our retail employees
- Call on Beef and Equine Farmers to sale feeding programs and provide technical expertise
- Conduct presentations at Producer meetings and sales events
- Maintain up-to-date competitor information to maximize sales strength and ability
- Work in tandem with Feed Division staff to achieve success retail success with feed, competitive prices and programs

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| Position Title : Manager, Dairy Business Unit |
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Work Location : Richmond, VA
Qualifications :
- 7+ years (preferred) experience in dairy nutrition consulting and dairy business management
- Knowledge of dairy nutrition, dairy management practices and dairy animal health
- Knowledge of how to use dairy products and programs
- Effective leadership, training, organizational, communication and problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated ability in farm sales
- Ability to analyze on-farm dairy management and nutrition program
- Ability to address consumer needs and provide effective consultation
- PC proficiency – MS Office software
- On-Farm Ration software proficiency or able to learn
- Valid Drivers License, ability to travel (up to 50%)
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs., climb, stoop, bend, reach and crawl on a frequent basis
- Able to work safely in adverse weather and environmental conditions
- Able to pass background check and drug screen
Education : Advanced Degree (PhD or DVM) & Professional Animal Scientist (PAS) certification preferred. Minimum M.S. degree in Agricultural Science
Responsibilities :
- Provide sales and technical leadership to Field Sales/Technical staff
- Provide hands-on sales and business leadership for two geographic dairy-to-direct producer sales areas (North Carolina and Kentucky)
- Develop and manage Dairy Sales program, promotions and marketing plan
- Meet with Dairy Producers to address their needs, observe farm management practices, provide analysis and recommendations to increase milk production
- Participate in research planning and new product development
- Develop and maintain professional relationships with Land Grant Universities
- Maintain PAS certification and/or obtain within first year of employment
- Maintain and direct management of on-farm ration software
- Educate employees on how to use updates and enhancements to on-farm ration software

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Wholesale Positions
| Position Title : Agronomist (travel throughout Northern Alabama & Northwest Georgia) |
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Work Location : Based out of your home (travel throughout Northern Alabama & Northwest Georgia)
Qualifications :
Based out of your home, you will provide technical and sales direction for crops business to successfully increase sales of seed, fertilizer and crops protection products in respective territory. You will travel throughout Northern Alabama and Northwest Georgia to call on customer base, sell crops products and provide technical expertise to Farmers. Apply demonstrated ability to maximize market penetration and profitability.
- Seasoned experience in crops business that preferably has included sales
- Extensive knowledge of Agronomic requirements for production of healthy crops
- In-depth understanding of crops market in Alabama and Georgia
- In-depth knowledge of seed, fertilizer and crop protection markets
- Able to sell entire line of crop products
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Possess Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) license or able to obtain
- Valid Drivers License --satisfactory driving record
- Able to travel daily with overnight travel up to 25%
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs., able to pass drug screen and background check
Education : Bachelor's Degree in Agronomy or related field
Responsibilities :
- Meet or exceed assigned fertilizer, seed and crop protectant budget
- Provide sales, technical support, leadership and training to retail personnel
- Call on Farmers to sell crops products and provide agronomy expertise
- Provide technical advice to Farmers in resolving crop issues
- Promote crops sales, merchandising and fill programs
- Conduct competitive market research and communicate feedback to maximize sales, margins and efficiencies
- Conduct presentations at Producer meetings and sales events
- Maintain up-to-date competitor information to maximize sales strength and ability
- Work in tandem with Crop Division staff to achieve retail success with crops products

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| Position Title : Agronomist - Eastern, KY |
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Work Location : Based out of your home (travel throughout Eastern Kentucky)
Qualifications :
- Previous experience in crops business that preferably has included sales
- In-depth understanding and extensive knowledge of Agronomic requirements for production of healthy crops
- In-depth knowledge of seed, fertilizer and crop protection markets
- Able to sell entire line of crop products
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- PC proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Possess Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) license or able to obtain
- Valid Drivers License, able to travel daily with overnight travel up to 25%.
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs., able to pass drug screen and background check
Education : Bachelor's Degree in Agronomy or related field
Responsibilities :
- Meet or exceed assigned fertilizer, seed and crop protectant budget
- Provide sales, technical support and training to Dealer personnel
- Call on Farmers to sell crops products and provide agronomy expertise
- Provide technical advice to Farmers in resolving crop issues
- Provide leadership and training to our retail employees
- Promote crops sales, merchandising and fill programs
- Conduct competitive market research and communicate feedback to maximize sales, margins and efficiencies
- Conduct presentations at Producer meetings and sales events
- Maintain up-to-date competitor information to maximize sales strength and ability
- Work in tandem with Crop Division staff to achieve retail success with crops products

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Retail Positions
| Position Title : Technical Sales Representative - Seed |
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Work Location : Based out of your home (Travel throughout Kentucky)
Qualifications :
- Must have a good understanding of seed markets in Kentucky and other retailers in the region
- Strong background and previous experience in Sales
- Knowledge of Agronomy and seed variety selection for the production of healthy crops and issues specific to the geography
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
- Honesty and Trustworthy
- PC Skill Proficiency (MS Outlook, Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint)
- Possess Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) certificate or is prepared to get one
- Valid Drivers License with satisfactory driving record
- Must be able to travel daily with overnight travel up to 25%
- Will need to work extended hours needed
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs, pass drug screen and background check
Education : BS degree in Agronomy or a related field
Responsibilities :
- Provide sales leadership, training and support to our retail system
- Work closely with the Crop Division staff to achieve or exceed assigned seed budget
- Call on selected farmers to sell seed and provide appropriate expertise on behalf of Southern States retail stores in assigned territory.
- Provide technical advice to farmers in resolving seed issues
- Promote seed sales and merchandising programs and coordinate seed orders from all Southern States retail stores in assigned territory
- Conduct competitive market research and communicate feedback to maximize sales, margins and efficiencies
- Conduct presentations at Producer meetings and sales events
- Maintain up-to-date competitor information to maximize sales strength and ability
- Establish and manage seed variety plots where required

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| Position Title : Field Sales Associate - KY & TN |
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Work Location : Simpson, KY area and Southern Tennessee
Qualifications :
- Agricultural/Agronomic Background preferred
- Minimum of 3 years of agricultural and/or farm experience
- Two years of sales experience
- Certified Crops Advisor preferred
- Strong background in Crops and ability to make crop recommendations
- Knowledge of fertilizer and chemicals
- Experience with Precision Ag. helpful
- Strong relationship/sales abilities
- Ability to adapt to new technologies
- PC Skill Proficiency Microsoft Office
- Effective communication, organizational and analytical skills
- Team Player, Great Attitude, Flexible, Customer Oriented and driven to be successful personally and professionally
- Ability to travel up to 100%
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs, pass drug screen and background check
Education : BS degree in Agronomy or equivalent work experience
Responsibilities :
- Make farm calls to new and existing customers in the area to solicit sales and make recommendations relating to our products and services.
- Works closely with the local store manager/district manager to coordinate sales efforts, develop prospect lists, identify pricing strategies and to develop availability of products.
- Organize and hold or attend events, shows and meetings.
- Coordinates all resources needed to solve the customer’s issues and complaints, which may require you to work with buyers, agronomist, vendors, local and district managers.
- Provides technical assistance and related information to customers regarding best management practices.

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| Position Title : Territory Sales Manager - Western, KY |
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Work Location : Western, KY
Qualifications :
- Agronomy experience is a plus
- Minimum of 2 years of agricultural and/or farm experience
- Able to sell the complete line of crop and livestock needs
- Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales and meet sales goals
- Able to learn and present programs to Producers/Growers in group or individual settings
- Effective communication, organizational and presentation skills
- PC proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Valid Drivers License
- Able to travel up to 80%, limited over night stay
- Able to lift up to 50lbs.
- Able to pass drug screen and background check
Education : Coursework in agronomy and cattle preferred. A combination of training and experience may be considered in lieu of completed coursework
Responsibilities :
- Perform sales responsibilities for livestock products (feeds, mineral, animal health, equipment) to meet sales goals
- Prioritize and make sales calls to Growers/Producers and apply demonstrated sales ability
- Make farm calls in the region of two store locations' market areas and apply technical expertise
- Organize and hold or attend events, shows and meetings

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| Position Title : Manager, Queen Anne County Service |
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Work Location : Queen Anne County Service, Centreville, MD
Qualifications :
- Agricultural/Agronomic Background preferred
- Five years of crops experience
- Two years of retail experience
- Certified Crops Advisor preferred
- Strong background in Crops
- Supervisory experience preferred
- Strong relationship/sales abilities
- Honesty and Trustworthy
- PC Skill Proficiency (MS Outlook, Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint)
- Effective communication, organizational, multi-tasking and analytical skills
- Ability to learn essential job functions to fulfill job scope
- Team Player, Great Attitude, Flexible, Customer Oriented and driven to be successful personally and professionally
- Organize and attend grower meetings
- Will need to work the hours needed during the busy seasons
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs, pass drug screen and background check
Education : BS degree in Agronomy or equivalent work experience
Responsibilities :
- Work side by side with the store employees to promote services to our farmer members
- Supervise team associates
- Assist in driving sales with inside sales, on the farm sales calls, as well as grower meetings
- Directs record keeping and inventory control
- Directs the workflow of team associates
- Performs fill-in jobs for all employees when necessary
- Exercises discretion and independent judgment with reference to ordering qualities and types of merchandise needed
- Performs other management or administrative duties as the day- to- day operations require
- Makes decisions requiring independent judgment and discretion in respect to credit administration and payment of bills
- Develops advertising, merchandising techniques and programs that conform to policy guidelines and budget requirements
- Engages regularly in making sales or taking orders for services during customer visits in the store

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