Agronomist

Coaldale Chamber of Commerce; Coaldale; On-site; CAD 65,500 - 87,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement savings benefits

Vacation and holidays

Mental health resources

Job summary

McCain Foods is seeking an Agronomist to join their North America Agriculture team in Coaldale, Alberta. In this permanent role, you will support potato production and grower partnerships.

Your responsibilities include providing technical support, conducting research, leading variety trials, and contributing to strategic plans. A Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, with a Master’s preferred.

The position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in potato production and storage practices.
• Strong analytical and statistical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support to growers.
• Participate in research and evaluation of new technologies.
• Lead regional potato variety trials and commercialization efforts.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Public speaking

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Agronomic techniques

Education

Bachelor’s in Plant Science or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

About the role.

McCain Foods is seeking an Agronomist to join our North America Agriculture team in Coaldale, Alberta. In this full‑time, permanent role you will play a key part in supporting potato production and strengthening grower partnerships across the region. Reporting to the Agronomy Manager, West, you will drive innovation through research, technology adoption, and best practices to optimize crop performance and deliver sustainable results.

What you’ll be doing.

• Partner with growers to provide technical support, agronomic expertise, and best practices to improve yield and quality.
• Participate in research and evaluation of new technologies, collaborating with universities, research institutions, and industry partners.
• Lead regional potato variety trials and support commercialization efforts.
• Lead and execute regional grower extension efforts to drive adoption of best practices and new varieties by our growers.
• Contribute to North America Agronomy strategic plans and deploy grower improvement initiatives.
• Develop and share Best Management Practices (BMPs) for crop nutrition, protection, and storage.
• Collect, analyze, and report data on crop development, quality, and yield throughout the growing cycle.
• Utilize McCain systems (Potato Database, PC&R, GMS) to track and monitor agronomic performance.
• Collaborate with Field Representatives and cross‑functional teams to support production goals.
• Participate in and lead key initiatives that advance the Agriculture strategy.
• Attend industry events, field days, and meetings to stay current on potato production trends.

What you’ll need to be successful.

• Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science, Soil Science, Agronomy, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Proven experience in potato production and storage practices.
• Strong analytical and statistical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with comfort in public speaking.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in fast‑paced environments.
• Commitment to safety and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Willingness to work outdoors and conduct in‑field crop and storage monitoring.
• Ability to supervise seasonal and hourly staff.
• Interest in applying innovative agronomic techniques and technologies.
• Proficiency in leveraging generative AI tools to streamline workflows, draft copy, or conduct data analysis.

About the team.

You will be part of the North America Agriculture organization, working closely with Agronomy teams, Field Representatives, and cross‑functional partners. This collaborative team focuses on delivering high‑quality potato production, advancing innovation, and building strong, long‑term grower relationships across the region.

Compensation Package

$65,500.00 – $87,400.00 CAD annually + Bonus Eligibility. The above reflects the target compensation range for the position at the time of posting. Hiring compensation will be determined based on experience, skill set, education and training, and other organizational needs. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Benefits

Employees are eligible for the following benefits: health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription drug), retirement savings benefits, and leave support including medical, family and bereavement. Well‑being programs include vacation and holidays, company‑supported volunteering time, and mental health resources. Coverages are aligned with country, provincial and state governing plans and can vary by work level, location and nature of the role. Additional benefit detail is available during the application process.

Equal Opportunity Employer

McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. As a global family‑owned company, we strive to be the employer of choice in the diverse communities around the world in which we live and work. We recognize that inclusion drives our creativity, resilience, and success and makes our business stronger. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions.

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