Del Monte Foods (DMC Foods Inc.), the Foods Division of Fresh Del Monte, is seeking a Seasonal Sample Scout. The Seasonal Sample Scout position is located at Manito, Illinois and is responsible for supporting field operations through crop scouting, pest and disease monitoring, stand counts, sample collection, and data entry activities during the growing season. This role works closely with the Field Department to monitor crop conditions, gather field data, and support agronomic decision-making.

The Seasonal Sample Scout assists with field inspections, trap monitoring, pesticide record collection, sustainability projects, and other activities that support Del Monte’s agricultural operations from approximately April through September.

Pay Range is dependent on prior experience with our field department. Pay range is $17.80-$18.80.

• Field Scouting and Crop Monitoring
• Scout fields for pests, diseases, weed pressure, and other crop concerns.
• Monitor insect traps and record findings.
• Conduct stand counts at crop emergence and throughout the growing season.
• Collect field samples for testing, evaluation, and agronomic analysis.
• Identify crop conditions that may impact yield, quality, or harvest timing.
• Assist with crop scouting activities related to sustainability and field improvement projects.
• Support field teams with collection and review of grower pesticide records.
• Observe and report field issues, crop concerns, weather impacts, or unusual conditions to field management.
• Data Collection and Reporting
• Enter scouting data, trap counts, stand counts, and field observations into company systems.
• Maintain accurate records using programs such as Croptrak, Microsoft Office, and other field data systems.
• Assist with preparation of reports related to scouting, crop conditions, pest pressure, and harvest readiness.
• Maintain confidentiality of company, grower, and field information.
• Communicate effectively with field supervisors, growers, and other employees regarding field conditions and priorities.
• Safety and Equipment
• Safely transport self to and from field locations.
• Follow all company safety policies, field procedures, and emergency response guidelines.
• Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Comply with EPA Worker Protection Standards and pesticide safety requirements.
• Support safe handling of field equipment, sample materials, and company vehicles.
• Become forklift certified and/or pesticide applicator certified if needed for the role.
• Assist with other field department duties as assigned.

• The Sample Scout position qualifies for an Attendance Bonus for maintaining positive attendance.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• You must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Availability to work from approximately April through mid-September.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively with others.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, growers, and coworkers.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with company and grower information.
• Ability to safely travel between field locations.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, overtime, weekends, and extended hours during harvest periods.
• Ability to walk long distances in fields and work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions.
• Ability to bend, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English effectively.
• Previous agricultural, scouting, farming, field research, or crop monitoring experience preferred.
• Experience working with crop scouting software, field mapping tools, or data entry systems preferred.
• Knowledge of pests, diseases, insects, weed identification, and crop development stages preferred.
• Previous experience working outdoors in agricultural environments preferred.
• Wisconsin Pesticide Applicator Certification preferred or ability to obtain.
• Forklift certification preferred or ability to obtain.
• Familiarity with sustainability programs, field trials, or agronomy projects preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered.
• Must be able to effectively read, write, speak, and understand English in order to perform the essential functions of the position.