Research Operations Leader (m / d / f)

Eschbach Research Center Operations Lead

At Eschbach Research Center, we are at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in agrisciences. Our mission is to push the boundaries of research and development, and we are seeking a passionate Operations Lead to join our dynamic team. If you are a strategic thinker with a knack for operational excellence, we want to hear from you!

Position Purpose:

• Coordinate the leadership of day-to-day management at the Research Center.
• Serve as the liaison between process leads and as the key contact for the center.
• Ensure safe, effective, and efficient management of Research Center processes locally.
• Plan for Research resources (manpower, machinery, equipment, tools, facilities) to produce high-quality data, meet field operation schedules, and support product development.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management:

• Manage daily center operations, ensuring timely completion of research and business needs.
• Organize and direct research operations to optimize asset use while achieving objectives.
• Coordinate leadership team meetings with agendas, schedules, and follow-ups.
• Manage land cooperators and off-site storage effectively.
• Ensure regulatory compliance (safety, wage laws, etc.).
• Conduct regular team meetings for updates and task management.
• Monitor capacity, equipment, labor, and resolve issues to meet research goals.
• Identify and resolve problems with support from leadership as needed.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Coach and develop team members, fostering collaboration and modeling Core Values.
• Establish and support performance goals aligned with strategy.
• Hold employees accountable and recognize achievements.
• Encourage feedback and process improvements.

Promoting a Culture of Core Values and High-Quality Results:

• Promote health, safety, and environmentally friendly practices.
• Ensure SHE programs are executed and safety culture is fostered.
• Monitor quality throughout research processes and testing.

Scientific Collaboration:

• Work with Research Scientists and EZ Leads to set project goals aligned with business needs.
• Stay current with new technology and encourage professional development.
• Monitor research progress, identify issues, and communicate with leadership.
• Participate in product selection and advancement meetings.
• Serve on cross-project research teams as appropriate.

LI-IM #LI-Hybrid

Qualifications:

Education:

• Master’s degree in an agriculture-related field.

Experience:

• 5-7 years in research operations.
• Proven track record in managing complex projects and leading teams.

Skills and Abilities:

• Forecast labor, resources, and space needs with a research operations background.
• Leadership skills to motivate, lead meetings, make decisions, and solve problems.
• Positive attitude with realistic goal setting.
• Excellent communication skills for teamwork and stakeholder engagement.
• Proactive in stakeholder communication.
• Willing to challenge and implement changes.
• Resilient and positive under stress.
• Knowledge of corn cultivation, agronomy, and trialing is essential; experience with other crops is acceptable.
• Knowledge of corn products and markets is ideal; motivation to learn is required.
• Fluent in English and German; French is a plus.

Working Conditions:

Primarily in a Research Center setting with frequent field visits. High workload during peak seasons, including long hours and weekends. Occasional regional travel.

Why Join Us?

Innovative Environment:

• Join a cutting-edge research center contributing to agrisciences.
• Work on impactful projects shaping the future.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• Be part of a passionate, collaborative, and diverse team.
• Engage in an environment that promotes open communication and idea sharing.