Field Development Representative (Product Development)

Gowan-Compan; Chualar (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Gowan Seed in California is seeking a Field Development Representative (Product Development) to lead seed technology trials and market development for new varieties.

You will plan, plant, monitor and analyze trials, coordinating with breeders, sales and service teams to translate field results into market-ready products. A strong agriculture background and willingness to travel are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in agriculture, biology or a related field, or substantial farming experience.
• Valid driver's license, and ability to drive long distances on a regular basis.
• Ability to work 50+ hours per week seasonally, and be available for overnight travel, as needed.
• Strong professional interest in agriculture, with a problem solving and marketing mentality.
• Computer proficiency is a must.
• Meticulous research and data management skills are a key requirement of this position.
• Ability to manage deadlines, priorities, and the work of other people.

Responsibilities

• Plans, coordinates and executes an intensive seed trial program.
• Plants, maps, monitors and evaluates trials.
• Enters and manages data.
• Analyzes raw data to develop variety descriptions, season summaries and days to maturity information.
• Learns horticultural and market characteristics of vegetable crops in the market area.
• Develops relations with research, plant breeders and sales reps to stay abreast of developments.
• Participates in determining direction and investment in their programs.
• Regularly communicates between customer service, technical advisory, and product development teams.

Skills

Agriculture interest

Problem solving

Marketing mentality

Computer proficiency

Data management

Deadline management

Education

Bachelor's degree in agriculture or related field

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Field Development Representative (Product Development)

Full Time Gowan Seed California Salaried, Chualar, CA, US

Field Development Representative

Summary Description: The Product Development Specialist takes a lead role in all activities associated with the evaluation, introduction and market development of new varieties and products from all suppliers.

Variety and seed Technology Trials:

• Plans, coordinates and executes an intensive seed trial program.
• Plants, maps, monitors and evaluates trials.
• Enters and manages data.
• Analyzes raw data to develop variety descriptions, season summaries and days to maturity information.
• Learns the horticultural and market characteristics of vegetable crops grown in the market area.
• Develops relations with and regularly contacts research & development, plant breeders and sales representatives from supply companies to stay abreast of recent variety developments. Participates in determining the direction and investment in their programs.
• Participates as a regular member of the Gowan Seed brand marketing team.
• Ensures a regular two-way communication between customer service and technical advisory team and product development function, constantly seeking current information on customer needs, and applying that knowledge to the trial plan.
• Develops and schedules effective trial plans for Gowan Seed and across several geographic areas.
• Develops expertise in crops, varieties and production districts of concern.
• Maintains appropriate inventory of trial seed and ensures that all agreed-upon trials are conducted, recorded, and communicated in a timely manner.
• Supervises and directs Gowan Seed research station trial crew in the performance of duties.
• Effectively communicates information to product development, sales and management personnel through meetings and written reports.
• Participates in periodic updates to the Gowan Seed brand website and catalog, providing clarifying information and written product descriptions.
• Develops relations with non-seed purchasing decision makers in the Gowan Seed customer base including harvest managers, farm managers and new product specialists.
• Research and evaluate new seed technologies, focusing on effectiveness, market potential, user perception and regulatory impact.
• Participating in trade shows as a knowledgeable exhibitor, as assigned.
• Assists sales staff with customer complaint investigation

Territory/Travel Requirements:

• Most trial work will be conducted in the market territory
• Seasonal overnight travel required to attend Gowan Seed Co and vendor trials outside the market territory

Characteristics of a Successful Incumbent:

• I. Strong professional interest in agriculture, with a problem solving and marketing mentality.
• 2. Bachelor's degree in agriculture, biology or a related field, or substantial farming experience.
• 3. Valid driver's license, and ability to drive long distances on a regular basis.
• 4. Ability to work 50+ hours per week seasonally, and be available for overnight travel, as needed.
• 5. Computer proficiency is a must.
• 6. Meticulous research and data management skills are a key requirement of this position.
• 7. Ability to manage deadlines, priorities, and the work of other people.