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COLUMBIA GRAIN

Grain Merchant

Portland, OR · On-site

Grain Merchant Department: Merchandising Reports To: Vice-President, Grain Division Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics, and distribution of ...

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$5

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How much do grain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for grain in the United States is $16.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grain job?

Grain jobs typically refer to roles involved in the production, processing, storage, and distribution of grains such as wheat, corn, rice, and barley. These jobs can include positions like grain elevator operators, grain inspectors, millers, and logistics coordinators. Workers in this field ensure that grains are harvested, safely stored, and transported for further processing or sale. The industry is vital for food production and supply chains, requiring attention to quality control and safety regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work in grain jobs?

To thrive as a Grain Elevator Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grain handling equipment, safety protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, communication, and the ability to work well in a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient grain storage and handling while maintaining product quality and workplace safety.

What challenges do professionals in the grain industry face?

Professionals in the grain industry often encounter challenges such as fluctuating commodity prices, unpredictable weather impacting crop yields, and strict regulatory requirements regarding storage and transportation. Managing these issues requires strong analytical skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to risk management. Building solid relationships with suppliers, buyers, and logistics partners also helps mitigate disruptions and ensures a smooth flow of operations.

What is the difference between Grain vs Millworker?

AspectGrainMillworker
Required credentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of grain processingHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship in mill operations
Work environmentFarms, grain storage facilities, processing plantsMill facilities, manufacturing plants, processing sites
Employer & industry usageAgriculture, food production, grain handlingFood manufacturing, grain milling industry
Common search & comparison intentUnderstanding roles in grain processingDetails about working in grain mills

While both Grain and Millworker roles involve working with grain products, Grain workers typically focus on handling, storing, and basic processing of grain on farms or storage facilities. Millworkers are more involved in operating machinery within grain mills, ensuring proper milling processes. The roles differ mainly in work environment and specific responsibilities, but both require knowledge of grain handling and safety procedures.

More about Grain jobs

What cities are hiring for Grain jobs?

Cities with the most Grain job openings:

What states have the most Grain jobs?

States with the most job openings for Grain jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Grain jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Grain jobs are:

Grain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grain job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,919 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Grain Merchant

COLUMBIA GRAIN

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Columbia Grain rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Title: Grain Merchant

Department: Merchandising

Reports To: Vice-President, Grain Division

Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics, and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics for domestic and worldwide export markets. Our vertically integrated company is headquartered in Portland, OR, and we own and operate over 60 facilities, including grain elevators and pulse processing plants across WA, ID, MT, NE, and ND.

At all levels of our organization, our employees are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the industry. We've spent over 40 years cultivating lasting partnerships with a wide network of producers and the local communities surrounding our facilities, which enables us to source the highest quality product to fulfill our mission of feeding the world.

Position Description

The Grain Merchant is primarily responsible for buying and selling bulk grain utilizing shuttle freight, DET's, COT's, single rail cars and trucks. The Grain Merchant will work with the other members of the team to work toward operational goals while maintaining quality and efficiencies.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Trades major product line commodities for the company rail as a profit/loss center.
  • Monitors export and domestic markets and arbitrage opportunities.
  • Hedges purchases/sales of commodities through an on-line order entry system.
  • Coordinates grain shipments with elevator managers, other merchants and customers.
  • Projects freight needs and corresponding coverage in deferred positions.
  • Monitors railroad and barge performance, events, tariffs and rail incentive programs.
  • Communicates with other company departments, vendors and customers.
  • Other duties assigned.

Skills, Knowledge, Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or Business-related or 4 year's industry experience.
  • Strong conceptual and problem-solving skills to evaluate problems and apply knowledge to identify appropriate solutions; ability to resolve issues effectively and efficiently.
  • Strong customer service orientation and ability to establish solid working relationships.
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers and other employees.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
  • Strong interpersonal skills; ability to interact with all levels of management.
  • Ability to be flexible and adaptive to successfully achieve the function of the position.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, storage, interest, commissions, ratios and conversions quickly and accurately.
  • Good work ethic (team environment, both safe and quality), efficient and willingness to perform all required work with good attendance.

Benefits Offered

  • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and RX benefits
  • Company paid Life Insurance and Disability
  • Flexible Spending Plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401K Retirement savings plan
  • Paid Holidays, Vacation and Sick leave

Successful completion of initial and ongoing employment screens, including but not limited to criminal background and vehicle record as required.

Columbia Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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