Field Scout, Seasonal (Albany, OR)

As a Seasonal Field Scout at Wilbur-Ellis, you will be responsible for pest trap placement and monitoring pest activity of various crops. Key tasks include preparing and installing traps, inspecting and maintaining data counts of the pests trapped, using GPS to map fields, and scouting crops for economic pests to report to the Sales Representative. Your collaboration with the field sales and operations support team is essential to ensure the success of our agricultural operations.

To apply for the Seasonal Field Scout role at Wilbur-Ellis, you should ideally be a college student majoring in Agriculture, Plant Science, or Horticulture. Excellent math skills are necessary, along with a strong interest in agricultural operations. Candidates should also possess good interpersonal skills for effective communication with customers and team members. Relevant experience is preferred but not mandatory.

Essential skills for a Seasonal Field Scout at Wilbur-Ellis include proficiency in the MS Office Suite, strong math abilities for accurate counts, and the capability to operate a vehicle safely in compliance with state laws. You should be willing to work outdoors in various weather conditions and be physically capable of bending, kneeling, and walking long distances. Strong interpersonal skills for working with customers and team members are also key to succeeding in this role.

The pay range for the Seasonal Field Scout position at Wilbur-Ellis is between $15 and $20 per hour. Keep in mind that wages may vary depending on your location, skills, and experience. In addition to competitive pay, this role also includes vacation, holidays, and various health and retirement benefits, ensuring a well-rounded compensation package.

At Wilbur-Ellis, we prioritize the training and development of our employees, including Seasonal Field Scouts. You can expect comprehensive onboarding that covers the essential responsibilities and safety protocols. Additionally, you will learn hands-on techniques for pest monitoring and data collection from experienced team members. Our supportive environment ensures that you will receive guidance and resources to excel in your role.

When answering this question, highlight your enthusiasm for agriculture and how your interests align with the responsibilities of the Seasonal Field Scout. Discuss your educational background in Agriculture, Plant Science, or Horticulture, and express your eagerness to gain hands-on experience with pest management and crop monitoring.

Discuss any internships, coursework, or volunteer experiences you have had that relate to agriculture or horticulture. Specific examples of tasks you've performed, such as working with plants, monitoring pests, or working outdoors, will help convey your readiness for the Seasonal Field Scout role at Wilbur-Ellis.

Discuss your resilience and adaptability in outdoor work environments. Express your understanding of the importance of monitoring crops effectively and your willingness to work in varying weather conditions to ensure the success of the agricultural operations at Wilbur-Ellis.

Share your approach to organization, which might include using digital tools or methods for tracking data accurately. Explain how your attention to detail helps you maintain accurate pest counts and monitor pest activity effectively as a Seasonal Field Scout.

Discuss your problem-solving skills and your ability to seek guidance from your supervisors or the Sales Representatives. Emphasize the importance of accurate identification for effective pest management and how you would take steps to report your findings promptly.

You might say that the most important quality is attention to detail, as it directly affects the accuracy of data collection and pest monitoring. Highlight other qualities like dependability, strong interpersonal skills, and a willingness to learn, which are crucial for success in the Seasonal Field Scout position at Wilbur-Ellis.

Describe your communication style and how you ensure your findings are conveyed clearly and accurately. Mention that you would utilize reports, briefings, or organized logs to present the data, fostering strong collaboration between you and your field sales team.

Discuss any relevant experience you have with using GPS or mapping technology. If you don't have direct experience, express your willingness to learn and how you are comfortable with basic software, such as MS Office Suite, that relates to data management in the field.

Share a specific example where you faced a new challenge, detailing how you adapted and the outcomes. Be sure to connect your adaptability to what you might face as a Seasonal Field Scout at Wilbur-Ellis and how this flexibility will be an asset.

Express your desire to gain practical experience in agriculture, develop your skills in pest management, and build a foundation for your career. Mention how you would like to contribute positively to the team and embrace opportunities for growth and learning during your seasonal role.