Agriculture OPT Jobs in Iowa
Iowa is one of the top agricultural states in the U.S., with major employers like John Deere, Cargill, and Iowa State University Research Farms actively hiring international talent in agronomy, food science, and agricultural engineering. Des Moines, Ames, and Cedar Rapids are the primary hiring hubs for F-1 OPT agriculture roles, offering opportunities across crop sciences, animal nutrition, and agribusiness.
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INTRODUCTION
Nutrien is a leading provider of crop inputs and services, and our business results make a positive impact on the world. Our purpose, Feeding the Future, is the reason we come to work each day. We’re guided by our culture of care and our core values: We put safety first. We act with integrity. We are stronger together. We deliver with excellence.
ABOUT THE JOB
Nutrien Ag Solutions is the retail division of Nutrien, providing full-acre solutions through our network of trusted crop consultants at more than 2,000 locations in North America, South America, and Australia. For more than 150 years, we have been helping growers achieve the highest yields with the most sustainable solutions possible, offering a wide selection of products, including our proprietary brands: Loveland Products, Inc.; Proven®Seed and Dyna-Gro®Seed; as well as financial, custom application and precision ag services.
Through the collective expertise of our nearly 26,000 employees, we operate a world-class network of production, distribution, and ag retail facilities. We efficiently serve growers' needs and strive to provide a more profitable, sustainable, and secure future for all stakeholders. Help us raise the expectation of what an agriculture company can be and grow your career with Nutrien and Nutrien Ag Solutions.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Manage delivery drivers and warehouse team for the location
- Order and maintain inventory with coordination of branch manager
- Assist in hiring seasonal staff and supervise all other warehouse staff and ensure proper training is provided
- Oversee maintenance, cleanliness, and repairs of facilities and equipment
- Ensure SH&E compliance at the location
- Ensure paperwork is completed fully and in a timely manner
- Handle and deliver bulk and packaged chemicals and seed
- Maintain application maintenance records
- Operate small mobile equipment (forklift, frontend loader, etc.)
- Operates computers on equipment
- Dispatch of trucks in compliance with DOT regulations
- Report any safety concerns to the branch manager as soon as they are identified
- Assemble customer orders
- Plan and develop policy, procedures, and ensures team adherence
- Perform any other duties as assigned
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- 2+ years of leadership experience in agriculture or a combination of education and work experience
- College degree is preferred
- Proficient use of computer programs to include Excel, Word, Outlook
- Willingness to travel
- Clean Driving Record
COMPENSATION
The estimated salary that Indeed, Glassdoor and LinkedIn lists does not represent Nutrien's compensation structure. Nutrien is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.
This job will remain posted until filled. In accordance with Nutrien policies, you will be required to undergo a background check, and may be required to undergo a substance test. While we appreciate all applications we receive, only candidates under consideration will be contacted. Applicants must meet minimum age requirements, as permitted by law.
Our Recruitment Process: Application > Resume Review > Pre-screen/Interview > Offer > Pre-Employment Conditions > Welcome to Nutrien
To stay connected to us and for the latest job postings and news, follow us on: LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
OPT Agriculture Job Roles in Iowa
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Search Agriculture Jobs in IowaAgriculture OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Iowa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which agriculture companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in Iowa?
Iowa's largest agricultural employers include Cargill, John Deere, Pioneer (a Corteva brand), and Iowa State University's extension and research programs. These organizations have histories of hiring international graduates in technical roles. Sponsorship is not guaranteed and depends on the specific role, degree field, and employer hiring needs at the time of application. Targeting companies with established international hiring programs improves your chances.
Which cities in Iowa have the most agriculture F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Ames leads for research and science-oriented agriculture roles, largely due to Iowa State University and its affiliated research institutions. Des Moines is the main hub for agribusiness, food processing, and corporate agriculture functions. Cedar Rapids has a strong food manufacturing and grain processing presence. Smaller cities like Waterloo and Iowa City also see hiring in animal science, food safety, and agricultural technology roles.
What types of agriculture roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship?
Roles that require a bachelor's degree or higher in a directly related field are strongest for F-1 OPT eligibility. In Iowa's agriculture sector, these commonly include positions in agronomy, crop science, food science, agricultural engineering, animal nutrition, precision agriculture technology, and agricultural data analytics. General labor or non-degree field roles typically do not qualify for STEM OPT extensions, which are available only to graduates in designated STEM-classified programs.
How do I find agriculture F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Iowa?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and F-1 OPT holders looking for sponsorship-friendly roles. You can filter by visa type, industry, and state to surface agriculture positions in Iowa from employers open to F-1 OPT candidates. Beyond Migrate Mate, Iowa State University's career center and agriculture-focused career fairs in Ames are practical on-the-ground resources for connecting with employers familiar with OPT hiring.
Are there any Iowa-specific considerations for F-1 OPT in agriculture?
Iowa's agriculture industry is heavily tied to crop cycles and seasonal research timelines, so many employers hire for positions that align with planting and harvest seasons, particularly in research roles. F-1 OPT students in STEM-classified agriculture programs, such as agricultural engineering or food science, may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving them up to three years of work authorization. Confirming your degree's STEM classification with your DSO before applying is important.