Agronomic Research Scientist

Syngenta; Waterloo Precinct (NE); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work options

Medical, Dental & Vision coverage

401k with company match

Profit sharing

Paid vacation

Education assistance

Job summary

Syngenta in Waterloo, NE is seeking a senior agronomy researcher to lead field trials for corn and soybean varieties and to publish agronomic content that strengthens NK and Golden Harvest brand positioning as trusted advisors.

The role requires advanced degrees in agronomy with substantial experience in research, data analysis, and collaboration with sales and agronomy teams across Eastern Commercial Units. Strong project management and communication skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• PhD or MS in Agronomy preferred; BS with 5+ years experience considered.
• 5+ years in commercial or R&D agronomy with statistics and data analysis.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of farming best practices, seed technologies, and crop protection.
• Ability to manage field plots and supervise personnel.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with sales and agronomy teams across Eastern Commercial Units to identify regional needs and deliver targeted agronomic solutions.
• Lead the full research lifecycle from study design and prioritization through pre-planting preparations, including technology agreements, seed treatment, plot planning, and field mapping for corn and soybean variety trials.
• Oversee field activities including planting, plot maintenance, harvest operations, treatment applications, data collection, and supervision of part-time research personnel at multiple sites.
• Conduct statistical analysis of yield and agronomic data; prepare technical reports and presentations; confidently present findings to internal teams, dealers, customers, and industry influencers.
• Maintain research equipment precision and efficiency through routine maintenance, seasonal prep, and innovative equipment design to support accurate treatment applications and data collection.

Skills

PhD/MS in Agronomy

5+ years agronomy research

Statistical data analysis

Research project management

Communication skills

Seed technology knowledge

Education

PhD in Agronomy

MS in Agronomy

BS in Agronomy + 5+ years experience

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

At Syngenta Seeds Field Crops,we'reshaping the future of agriculture and empowering farmers to meet the ever-growing demand for food and fuel.We’rea global Ag Tech powerhouse, headquartered in the United States, with passionate, local experts collaborating with farmers to deliver solutions that create market opportunities.We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for unmatched in-field performance.Our seeds help mitigate risks such as disease,insect,weed, and extreme weather pressures, all while promoting sustainable farming practices that protect and enhance our planet. Join our mission of revolutionizing food security and transforming agriculture.

Job Description

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta’s Sales Team is seeking a (position title) in Waterloo, NE. This role will support Syngenta's marketing and sales objectives by conducting comprehensive agronomic research studies on corn and soybean varieties, delivering value-added agronomic content that strengthens NK and Golden Harvest brand positioning as trusted agronomic advisors in the marketplace.

Accountabilities:

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with sales and agronomy teams across Eastern Commercial Units to identify regional needs and deliver targeted agronomic solutions.
• Lead the complete research lifecycle, from study design and prioritization through pre-planting preparations, including technology agreements, seed treatment, plot planning, and field mapping for corn and soybean variety trials.
• Oversee all field activities, including planting, plot maintenance, harvest operations, treatment applications, data collection, and supervision of part-time research personnel across multiple research sites.
• Conduct statistical analysis of yield and agronomic data; prepare technical reports and presentations; and confidently present research findings to internal teams, dealers, customers, and industry influencers.
• Maintain research equipment precision and efficiency through routine maintenance, seasonal preparation, and innovative equipment design to support accurate treatment applications and data collection.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. and/or M.S. in Agronomy or a related field strongly preferred.
• Candidates without postgraduate training, but holding a B.S. in Agronomy with five or more years of experience conducting agronomy research trials and statistical data analysis, will be considered.
• 5+ years of experience in a commercial or R&D agronomy role, with a strong technical background and understanding of sales/commercial aspects.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to deliver key messages clearly and concisely.
• Good personnel and facility management skills.
• In-depth understanding of statistical principles and data analysis.
• Knowledge of farming best practices, seed technologies, and crop protection.
• Ability to skillfully plan, organize, and monitor performance to meet deadlines.
• Ability to coach people to excel by giving clear, direct, and skillful feedback.
• Ability to help teams understand how objectives are aligned with company strategy and how they add value.

Additional Information

What We Offer:

• A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members. Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
• Full Benefit Package (Medical,Dental& Vision) that starts your first day.
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training,promotionor any other employment practices for reasons ofrace, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Use of AI in Our Recruitment Process

At Syngenta, we use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen applications for high-volume roles.

When you submit an application, AI technology assesses your profile against the job requirements and generates a matching score. This score reflects how closely your qualifications, skills, and experience align with the role's criteria as defined in the job description.