Oct 07, 2026 4:58 PM (132 views)
Northeast Nebraska


My name is Zach Painter. I’m 29, originally from Battle Creek, and live in Norfolk with my wife and young son. I’m looking to get started as a first-generation corn and soybean farmer.

My background is in seed sales and agronomy. I have been a professional agronomist for over 10 years. I currently work for Champion Seed as the Western Sales Lead and own P3 Agronomics, providing EarthOptics soil sampling, crop consulting, and planting and fertility prescriptions. I studied agronomy, precision agriculture, and ag business at Northeast Community College, then earned my bachelor’s degree in business management from Peru State.

Although I don’t have a family operation to take over, I’ve been working on farms and around machinery since I was little. I have hands-on experience across all aspects of corn and soybean production, including operating equipment from planting through harvest. I understand the work, long hours, and responsibility that come with farming.

I’m hoping to connect with an established farmer who would be interested in working alongside someone younger and developing a plan for the future. That could mean helping with their operation while renting some acres of my own and arranging equipment use at agreed rates, or exploring a gradual succession plan with someone looking to slow down. I’m willing to put in the work and earn someone’s trust. My goal goes beyond a hired-hand position: I’m looking for a working relationship with a clear path toward growing my own operation. I don’t expect anything to be handed to me, and I’m open to discussing arrangements that make financial and practical sense for both sides.

I would continue my current work initially, so we would need to be upfront about availability, responsibilities, and long-term goals.

My focus is within 30 - 45 minutes of Norfolk NE and surrounding northeast Nebraska communities. If you’re considering your operation’s future—or know someone who might be interested—I’d appreciate the opportunity to sit down and visit.

Zach Painter
402-928-0296
[email protected]

Wanted