Senior Agronomist

Gold Dust & Walker Farms is a fast-paced, family-owned agricultural operation with deep roots in the Klamath Basin dating back to 1973. Farming is more than our business — it is a way of life that has been passed down through generations. Our commitment to hard work, innovation, and continuous growth drives everything we do. We are seeking motivated, driven individuals who are passionate about agriculture and want to be part of a company that continues to evolve and expand. Position Summary The Senior Agronomist is responsible for leading agronomic strategy and crop production research across farming operations. This role provides advanced technical expertise in soil science, crop nutrition, irrigation management, pest management, and sustainable agricultural practices. The Senior Agronomist will work closely with farm management, operations, quality control, and executive leadership to maximize crop yield, quality, efficiency, and long-term soil productivity. This position requires strong leadership, analytical, and research capabilities, with a focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and data-driven decision making. Agronomic Strategy & Research

• Lead agronomic planning and strategy for potato, grain, and rotational crop production
• Conduct advanced research and field trials related to soil productivity and health, fertility programs, irrigation efficiency, pest and disease management, crop nutrition, sustainable farming practices, and variety performance
• Analyze soil, tissue, and water sample data to develop recommendations and corrective actions
• Develop and oversee nutrient management programs
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, practices, and crop inputs to improve productivity and efficiency
• Develop long-term soil conservation and soil health strategies
• Assist with budgeting and cost analysis related to agronomic programs and crop inputs Crop Production & Field Management
• Provide technical oversight and recommendations regarding planting schedules, fertilizer applications, irrigation scheduling, pest management, and harvest timing
• Diagnose physiological and agronomic crop issues caused by fertility deficiencies, soil conditions, water stress, disease pressure, insects, or pests
• Develop integrated pest management (IPM) programs
• Develop nematode control and mitigation strategies
• Monitor crop development and provide regular field reports to management
• Assist operations teams in optimizing field performance and production outcomes Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance
• Maintain organic and food safety integrity
• Ensure compliance with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), pesticide regulations, and export requirements
• Oversee pesticide reporting and conduct periodic audits
• Oversee collection and reporting of required water samples and field documentation
• Ensure agronomic programs comply with applicable environmental and regulatory standards Harvest & Storage Oversight
• Provide agronomic oversight during harvest operations
• Monitor harvest quality and mechanical damage trends
• Assist with quality control initiatives related to bruising, storage quality, sugars, and specific gravity
• Support cellar management and storage condition evaluations
• Respond to customer quality concerns and provide technical recommendations Leadership & Collaboration
• Serve as a technical resource and mentor for agronomy staff, farm managers, and operations personnel
• Assist with training and development of agronomy and quality control staff
• Collaborate with ownership and leadership on operational strategy and production goals
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors, consultants, universities, and industry professionals
• Participate in production and planning meetings Qualifications - Required
• PhD in Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop Science, Plant Science, or closely related field
• Minimum of 5 years of agronomy experience in commercial agriculture
• Strong knowledge of soil fertility, irrigation systems, crop nutrition, potato production systems, and pest and disease management
• Experience conducting field research and agronomic trials
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and leadership abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel between farm locations Qualifications - Preferred
• Experience in potato production and storage management
• Applicator's License or ability to obtain one
• Experience with organic production systems
• Experience with data analysis and precision agriculture technologies Physical & Work Requirements
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to walk fields and inspect crops regularly
• Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons
• Ability to work Saturdays and additional hours during planting and harvest seasons Location Primary work location will be based in Klamath County, Oregon, with regular travel to farm locations within the surrounding region.

Pay:

$90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Employee assistance program Health insurance Paid time off Relocation assistance Retirement plan

Experience:

Agronomist:

5 years (Required)

Language:

English (Required)

License/Certification:

Pesticide Applicator's License (Preferred) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required) Night Shift (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Klamath Falls, OR 97603: Relocate with an employer provided relocation package (Required)

Work Location:

In person