Who We Are

At CentralStar we help dairy and beef producers maximize their herds by connecting key farm areas. We offer industry-leading genetics, reproduction services, herd health products, DHI, diagnostic testing, and consulting. As a member of our team, YOU help producers see the whole picture, enabling them to optimize efficiency and profitability. Our team members live in the communities they serve, forming one of the most comprehensive agriculture field services teams in the Midwest.

Jobs at CentralStar Cooperative

Our Culture

Fostering your passion through our FUSION Culture

CentralStar offers a FULFILLING career with a vision that aligns with your goals and principles. We value the UNIQUENESS of every team member and empathy for each other’s thoughts, ideas, and experiences to build camaraderie and a well-rounded team.

SYNERGY and teamwork are vital for supporting our customers and the future of their farms. INDEPENDENCE and accountability help you recognize your role and responsibility, fostering trust within the team.

We invest in OPPORTUNITY for learning and goal achievement, ensuring you have the necessary skills for your career. Our NURTURING environment includes job shadowing, recognition, mentoring, and guidance to support your personal and career growth.

Embracing our FUSION Culture empowers team members to create bright futures and unifies our diverse group into a cohesive team. We look forward to hearing from you.

Our culture is one of passion for our team members, the Ag industry, and producer success.

Perks and Benefits for Full-time Careers

Paid training

Paid time off

Health, dental, and vision-insurance options

Flexible-spending account

401 (k) retirement with company match

Sponsored life and long-term-disability insurance

Optional short-term-disability insurance

Team-member Assistance Programs

Continuing-education

Team-member awards program

 Team Member Award Winners 2023

Nathan Ellerbrock Team A.I. Technician of the Year 2023
Shellie Volker DHI Specialist of the Year 2023
Rachel Keuning First Year DHI Specialist of the Year 2023
Rachel Donlin First Year DHI Specialist of the Year 2023
Kyle Peissig First Year DHI Specialist of the Year 2023
Jeremy Konen A.I. Specialist of the Year 2023
Harvey Stieve Outstanding Effort 2023
Garret Carnahan A.I. Specialist of the Year
Dave Lindberg Area Sales Manager of the Year 2023
Carla Stetzer Consultant of the Year 2023
Becky Spatz A.I. Specialist of the Year 2023

Life at CentralStar

Meet some of our team and hear their stories.

Candidate Journey

Once your application has passed the screening process, and caught the attention of the team, the hiring manager will reach out for next steps.

1. Phone Screening

A member of the hiring team will reach out to discuss potential opportunities and learn more about you, and possibly schedule a first interview.

2. First Interview

You will meet the hiring manager and another member of the CentralStar team to discuss your work experience. This interview will provide a better understanding of the responsibilities and expectations of the role you are interested in.

3. Interview / Job Shadow

This step varies by position and may include an interview or working alongside team members in the role you are applying for. This experience gives you a clearer understanding of the requirements, responsibilities, and FUSION culture at CentralStar.

4. Job Offer

The hiring manager will call you with the job offer and follow up with an email. If you accept the Human Resources team will send you the contract to sign electronically.

Behind the Scenes: Our Team’s Passions

Lynn Harbaugh

CentralStar Area Sales Manager Lynn Harbaugh (far left) is well known for his judging performances in the international dairy-show ring, but it’s what happens on the home front that brings him the most satisfaction. “I help coach Shawano County 4-H (pictured) and Clintonville FFA dairy judging (in Wisconsin),” said Lynn. “I’ve been working with 4-H for nearly 15 years and FFA for five years.”

 As a lifelong dairy enthusiast, Lynn understands the significance of these programs in fostering leadership skills and agricultural knowledge among young people. “I do it, because I like seeing these young people go from being shy to growing into very outgoing individuals, each with a new sense of confidence. I enjoy evaluating cattle, and building the kids’ confidence at the same time is the rewarding part.”

 Dairy-judging competitions not only enhance participants’ understanding of breed standards and animal husbandry but also cultivate critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills. Shawano County is fortunate to have several high-quality Holstein and color-breed herds who understand this and open their barn doors to Lynn’s judging teams and the other coaches who help. “We always have our first practice judging the Hoard’s Dairyman classes and then do six to eight weeks of on-farm practices,” added Lynn. “On farm, we usually place two to three classes each practice, and the older kids give two sets of reasons. The oral-reasons part is something we encourage all our kids to try and work to develop. It’s a great life skill.”

 The impact of Lynn’s volunteering extends beyond just skill development; it strengthens community ties and fosters a sense of belonging among participants. “I enjoy networking with these dairy producers and their families. Our county has a strong program, because we have several people who enjoy giving back to a program that helped mold them.”

 Lynn’s dedication not only enriches their knowledge and skills but also reinforces the values of hard work, perseverance, and community service. In the world of agriculture, it’s these qualities that will ensure a bright future for both the industry and the youth who will lead it.

Lynn Harbaugh with Shawano County 4-H dairy-judging program