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Grain Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Organizational Background Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination ... Position Description The Grain Buyer is primarily responsible for procuring (negotiating, buying ...

Jamestown West - Jamestown, ND 58401 Organizational Background Columbia Grain International, LLC is ... Position Description The Grain Buyer is primarily responsible for procuring (negotiating, buying ...

Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES POET Grain is a leader in the grain market, buying nearly a billion bushels of grain annually from over 30,000 local ...

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Grain Merchandiser

Fort Morgan, CO · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

In this role, you will be responsible for managing the procurement and sales of grain, building and maintaining relationships with customers and buyers, and analyzing market trends to maximize ...

Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES POET Grain is a leader in the grain market, buying nearly a billion bushels of grain annually from over 30,000 local ...

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES POET Grain is a leader in the grain market, buying nearly a billion bushels of grain annually from over 30,000 local farmers. When we show up to work at POET Grain, it ...

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES POET Grain is a leader in the grain market, buying nearly a billion bushels of grain annually from over 30,000 local farmers. When we show up to work at POET Grain, it ...

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Grain Elevator Operator

Ewing, NE · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Grain Elevator Operator

Arnold, NE · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Potentially be involved in buying/selling grain * Perform and assist in facility maintenance Grain Elevator Operator Requirements: * Previous experience working in a grain facility required * Ability ...

Reporting to the Lead Grain Originator, the Commodity Buyer will execute grain merchandising strategies, secure spot and forward grain supplies, monitor market conditions, and support risk management ...

Reporting to the Lead Grain Originator, the Commodity Buyer will execute grain merchandising strategies, secure spot and forward grain supplies, monitor market conditions, and support risk management ...

Reporting to the Lead Grain Originator, the Commodity Buyer will execute grain merchandising strategies, secure spot and forward grain supplies, monitor market conditions, and support risk management ...

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Grain Buyer information

See salary details

$34.5K

$68.4K

$102.5K

How much do grain buyer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for grain buyer in the United States is $68,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grain buyer?

Grain buyers are professionals who purchase grain, such as wheat, corn, soybeans, and other crops, from farmers or producers. They often work for grain elevators, food processing companies, or commodity trading firms, negotiating prices and contracts based on market conditions and quality standards. Grain buyers evaluate crop quality, monitor market trends, and build relationships with suppliers to ensure a steady and cost-effective supply of grain. Their role is crucial in the agricultural supply chain, helping to connect producers with end-users or processors.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a grain buyer?

To thrive as a Grain Buyer, you need strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and a solid understanding of agricultural markets, typically supported by a degree in agribusiness or a related field. Familiarity with commodity trading platforms, grain quality assessment tools, and inventory management systems is essential. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and decision-making skills help Grain Buyers build supplier partnerships and respond to market changes. These competencies are crucial for securing quality grain at competitive prices while managing risks and supporting supply chain stability.

What challenges do grain buyers face when negotiating with suppliers?

Grain Buyers often encounter challenges such as fluctuating market prices, variable crop quality, and the need to balance supplier relationships with company goals. Negotiating fair contracts requires staying updated on market trends and being able to assess the quality and value of grain quickly. Building trust with farmers and suppliers is essential, as is transparent communication to ensure both parties benefit from the agreement. Effective Grain Buyers also need to manage logistics, such as coordinating delivery schedules and ensuring compliance with quality standards.

What is the difference between Grain Buyer vs Grain Merchandiser?

AspectGrain BuyerGrain Merchandiser
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer agricultural or business degreesSimilar credentials; often requires knowledge of commodities and trading
Work EnvironmentFarmers, grain elevators, processing plantsTrading firms, grain elevators, agricultural companies
Industry UsageUsed to describe roles focused on purchasing grain directly from farmersEncompasses broader activities including buying, selling, and trading grain commodities

While both roles involve working with grain commodities, a Grain Buyer primarily focuses on purchasing grain from farmers, whereas a Grain Merchandiser handles a wider range of activities including trading, selling, and managing grain inventories. The roles often overlap, but the Grain Buyer is more procurement-oriented, and the Grain Merchandiser has a broader scope in the grain supply chain.

How do you become a grain buyer?

To become a grain buyer, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in agriculture, sales, or commodities trading. Developing knowledge of grain markets, supply chain logistics, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance job prospects; strong negotiation and communication skills are also important.

Is being a grain buyer a difficult job?

Being a grain buyer can be challenging as it requires strong negotiation skills, knowledge of market trends, and attention to detail. The job often involves managing large transactions, working under time-sensitive conditions, and maintaining relationships with farmers and suppliers.
More about Grain Buyer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Grain Buyer jobs?

The most popular types of Grain Buyer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Grain Buyer jobs?

The top employers for Grain Buyer jobs are:

What states have the most Grain Buyer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Grain Buyer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Grain Buyer jobs?

For Grain Buyer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Grain Buyer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,384 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Buyer

Jamestown, ND • On-site

COLUMBIA GRAIN
51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Columbia Grain rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Organizational Background

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, 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 and to fulfill our mission of feeding the world.

Position Description

The Grain Buyer is primarily responsible for procuring (negotiating, buying) and contract management for pulses and grains from local farmers. This includes ensuring that procurement is done to maximize returns while maintaining competitive pricing, managing transactions to follow Columbia Grain and customer risk management strategies, ensuring locations do not run out of product, and establishing long-term relationships with suppliers. The Grain Buyer will work with the other members of the team to work toward operational goals while maintaining quality and efficiencies.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Responsible for procurement, contracting and transportation of pulses, grain and other products.
  • Oversee shipments and logistics that may include off site storage at other locations.
  • Purchase products for any of the regional locations based on supply and demand. 
  • Develop arbitrage/merchandising opportunities for grain.
  • Analyze local supply/demand, competition, crop and market conditions to buy grain at optimum price levels.
  • Gather market intelligence on competitor activities and share with pulse and grain team.
  • Support the processing facilities managers to ensure they have the product they need to operate.
  • Assist with sampling, weighing, and contract settlements as necessary.
  • Other duties assigned

Skills, Knowledge, Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or Business-related or 2-5 year’s industry experience.  
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • Knowledge of fundamental and technical market drivers pertaining to pulses and grains.
  • High attention to detail and ability to multi-task are essential.
  • Ability to read and interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. 
  • Strong interpersonal skills; ability to interact with all levels of management.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 
  • Ability to be flexible and adaptive to successfully achieve the function of the position.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, ability to calculate figures and divide in units of measure (BU, ST, MT and CWT) using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • 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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