Job Title: Applicator (Custom Applicator)
Location: Salinas, California
Company: Nutrien Ag Solutions
Position Summary
Nutrien Ag Solutions is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Applicator to join our Salinas, CA operations team. The Applicator is responsible for the safe and accurate application of crop protection products, fertilizers, and plant nutrition products while supporting local growers throughout the region. This role operates application equipment, maintains regulatory compliance records, and ensures the highest standards of environmental stewardship and customer service. Duties are consistent with Nutrien's Custom Applicator roles across its retail agriculture network.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate spray rigs and other application equipment safely and efficiently.
- Apply crop protection products, fertilizers, and plant nutrition products according to agronomic recommendations and label requirements.
- Mix, load, and calibrate chemicals and fertilizers for field applications.
- Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance of vehicles and application equipment.
- Operate onboard computers, GPS, and precision agriculture technology used in field applications.
- Maintain accurate application records and comply with federal, state, and company regulations.
- Handle and deliver bulk and packaged crop inputs, seed, and related agricultural products as needed.
- Assist with facility operations, inventory management, and equipment cleaning.
- Support mechanics and maintenance personnel with routine service activities.
- Follow all safety procedures and environmental compliance requirements.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
- Ability to obtain and maintain all required California agricultural licenses and certifications.
- Ability to work extended hours and weekends during seasonal peak periods.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous agricultural, farming, or crop production experience.
- Commercial Applicator License and/or CDL.
- Experience operating agricultural spray equipment.
- Knowledge of pesticides, fertilizers, and integrated crop management practices.
- Familiarity with precision agriculture technology and GPS-guided application systems.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Effective communication and customer service skills.
- Basic mechanical aptitude.
- Ability to maintain detailed records and follow regulatory requirements.
Physical Requirements
- Frequently stand, walk, bend, climb, and reach.
- Lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Work around agricultural chemicals and equipment while utilizing required PPE.
- Work outdoors for extended periods in varying environmental conditions.
Why Join Nutrien Ag Solutions
Nutrien Ag Solutions is a leading provider of crop inputs and services, serving growers through a large agricultural retail network. The company emphasizes safety, integrity, teamwork, and excellence while supporting sustainable agricultural production and grower success.
Recruiting Summary: Ideal candidates will have agricultural field experience, experience operating spray equipment, knowledge of crop protection products, and the ability to obtain required California applicator certifications. Experience with vegetable, berry, and specialty crop production common to the Salinas Valley is highly desirable. (Recruiting recommendation based on regional market needs; not a Nutrien-posted requirement.)