Horticultural Soil Specialist at Midwest Trading – Maple Park, Illinois

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gain proficiency and run laboratory testing on finished blends with high efficiency to review and post results quickly
• Run analysis on raw components according to established protocols and schedules
• Process samples for external lab testing
• Review and interpret external test reports along with supervisor for specification compliance
• Interpret laboratory results as they compare product and specifications
• Run laboratory analysis for customer and project work
• Maintain sample flow through of physical sample and virtual record in LIMS
• Maintain a neat and orderly workspace
• Work on process improvement projects as well as methodology development to constantly push the Quality program forward
• Assist Supervisor with data analysis and review

• Scout, test and monitor raw materials for quality parameters
  • Temperature; sampling; weed scouting; contamination; physical properties
• Provide guidance on material management on sight to ensure quality
• Sample and test raw materials from field and bins according to schedule
• Advise Production and Soil Scientist of necessary adjustments to production needed based on analysis of raw material stockpiles
• Monitor material storage bins and windows for contamination and report any issues
• Work with Soil Scientist and Ottawa team to manage quality of pine inventories and tracking in Ottawa to maintain consistency of finished blends and improve processing methods
• Participate in offsite sampling and source evaluation at supplier source locations

• Troubleshoot and investigate customer and quality issues and provide reporting to Supervisor
• Work independently on assigned technical support projects with Scientist
• Provide reporting and interpretation of data from projects
• Develop proficiency in horticultural soil concepts to apply to project work and technical support
• Assist Horticultural Soil Scientist with R&D projects

• Train in tasks of entire Quality Team
• Assist Supervisor in overseeing quality program and the quality assurance process
• Provide backup when necessary to other areas of team
• Provide backup interpretation and judgment on quality related issues for production and QA technician
• Implement SOP’s and provide feedback and support in updates and adjustments
• Developed understanding of product specifications
• Maintain effective communication with team members and supervisors

• Assist in improving laboratory processes and space utilizations
• Work in ROSS to assist in areas of responsibility
• Acquire company internal Operator’s Permit to allow assistance in operating equipment as needed
• Help maintain data for sales team such as latest tests and submittals
• Attend industry events as appropriate
• Sample preparations for customers and testing
• Sample storage
• Facility tours
• Other projects as directed

• Understand and follow company safety policies
• Maintain safety awareness in own work and broader facilities

• Strong commitment to quality
• Proficiency in Microsoft
• Good organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail

• Bachelor’s Degree in the area of required expertise.
• 1–3 years of professional experience
• Background in horticulture, plant and soil science or other related fields
• Work as a grower or other technical horticulture professional a plus.

• Strong commitment to quality
• Proficiency in Microsoft
• Good organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is a plus.