1

Grain Elevator Operator Jobs in Ridott, IL (NOW HIRING)

Grain Elevator Operator information

See Ridott, IL salary details

$5

$15

$21

How much do grain elevator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for grain elevator operator in Ridott, IL is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the typical challenges grain elevator operators face during peak harvest season?

During peak harvest season, Grain Elevator Operators often experience long hours and a fast-paced work environment due to the high volume of incoming grain. Managing storage capacity efficiently is crucial, as is ensuring the safe and timely unloading, weighing, and sampling of grain trucks. Operators must also be vigilant about maintaining equipment and upholding safety standards to prevent accidents. Effective communication with farmers, truck drivers, and team members is essential to keep operations running smoothly under pressure.

What is the difference between Grain Elevator Operator vs Grain Mill Worker?

AspectGrain Elevator OperatorGrain Mill Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentElevator facilities, outdoor and indoorMill facilities, indoor
Industry UsageGrain storage, transportationGrain processing, milling
Job FocusLoading, unloading, maintaining elevatorsOperating milling equipment, quality control

Both roles involve working with grain and require safety training, but Grain Elevator Operators focus on managing grain storage and transportation at elevators, while Grain Mill Workers handle processing and milling tasks inside facilities. They share similar credentials and work environments but differ in job focus within the grain industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grain elevator operator?

To thrive as a Grain Elevator Operator, you need a strong understanding of grain handling procedures, equipment operation, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grain grading tools, conveyor systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a commitment to safety are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining grain quality, ensuring workplace safety, and supporting efficient facility operations.

What does a grain elevator operator do?

A grain elevator operator manages the daily operations of a grain elevator, which is a facility used to store and handle bulk grain. Their responsibilities include receiving, weighing, sampling, and storing grain, as well as maintaining equipment and ensuring grain quality. They also coordinate the loading and unloading of grain shipments, monitor inventory levels, and follow safety and regulatory guidelines. Grain elevator operators play a crucial role in the agricultural supply chain, ensuring that grain is properly stored and transported.

Seasonal Grain Elevator Operator - FS GRAIN - Polo, IL

GROWMARK, Inc.

Polo, IL

$17.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Growmark rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 65 rated farming


Job description

FS GRAIN is a leading grain company with 80 full time employees operating in Northern Illinois. FS GRAIN operates 19 facilities with a combined storage capacity of 40 million bushels, and access to multiple grain markets, including ownership of two Class I shuttle loaders. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PAY SCALE

$17.50-18.00

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT 

Under the direction of Facility Manager, is responsible for elevator operations including grain handling, safety and maintenance, rolling stock, and customer service.   

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 

Responsible for grain handling including incoming, stored, and outgoing grain.  Maintains the grain quality, blending, and providing grain drying services. 

Responsible for the housekeeping generally involved with the handling of grain. 

Responsible for compliance with OSHA, state, and federal safety regulations and maintenance and professional appearance of equipment, rolling stock and facilities.  

Provides professional customer service that results in a pleasant experience for customers. 

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS 

Responsible for maintaining company equipment according to company standards, adheres to the company Uniform Policy, and maintains the appropriate professional image. 

Performs related duties as assigned. 

REQUIREMENTS 

Normally requires a high school diploma and/or experience in a related agricultural field. 

Proven ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment 

Understanding and willingness to learn grain handling. 

Understanding and experience with mechanical diagnosis, service, repairs, maintenance, and upkeep of equipment and vehicles. 

Preferred basic computer skills and the ability to use the computer to enhance grain handling  

Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and have the ability to travel independently and overnight when necessary.  

Ability to work extended hours and on-call as business conditions warrant. 

Occasionally exposed or required to:   

  • Extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, etc.) 
  • Noisy conditions 
  • Working conditions may include dust, fumes, chemicals, and electrical hazards with appropriate safety measures 
  • Work at varying heights including climbs on grain bins, legs, etc.  
  • Lift 51 - 70 lbs. 

At FS GRAIN, we are dedicated to supporting the long-term financial well-being of our employees through a fully funded pension, a cornerstone benefit that ensures security for the future. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a variety of supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, disability, hospital indemnity, and identity theft protection. To promote a healthy work-life balance, employees enjoy generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays, giving you time to recharge and focus on what matters most. Additionally, our 401(k) plan with company matching helps you plan for retirement, while our free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports your overall well-being. Whether you're starting your career, balancing family life, or planning for retirement, our company is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that meets your needs at every stage. Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law.  In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.

We are an equal opportunity/Disabled/Protected Veteran Employer. All individuals, regardless of demographic or other background, are encouraged to apply. Further, as a federal, state, and local contractor, we comply with government regulations and executive orders as applicable, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with disability and protected veterans.
 
Employment is contingent on, among other things, receipt of an acceptable and job-related background check, drug test, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law.

What Growmark employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


GROWMARK logo

About GROWMARK

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GROWMARK is an agricultural cooperative serving almost 400,000 customers across North America, providing agronomy, energy, facility engineering and construction, and logistics products and services, as well as grain marketing and risk management services. Headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois, GROWMARK owns the FS trademark, which is used by its member cooperatives. GROWMARK also owns and operates SEEDWAY, the largest full-line seed company in the United States. More information is available at growmark.com.

Industry

Clean energy services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Bloomington, IL, US

Year founded

1927

Social media