Research Associate 2

DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC); Illinois; On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision

401k with company match

Paid time off

Education assistance

Wellness programs

Job summary

Syngenta seeks a Research Associate 2 in Malta, IL to execute and manage varied operational tasks in agricultural research, focusing on controlled environment operations. The role includes data collection, inventory control, plant care, and adherence to protocols with weekly supervision.

Accountabilities cover performance metrics, compliance with EPA/WPS, and collaboration with cross‑functional teams to streamline processes and improve productivity.

Qualifications

• Must have an associate degree or 2+ years in agriculture/related field.
• Ability to work effectively in controlled environments.
• Willingness to work multiple shifts, including weekends.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform manual labor as needed.
• Accurate record-keeping of research documents and license/certification as required.

Responsibilities

• Execute daily operational activities in a controlled environment.
• Collect data, manage inventory, and report performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, policies, HSE, EPA and WPS.”
• Train and mentor junior team members and seasonal staff.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to improve processes and efficiency.
• Identify and implement process improvements to boost productivity.
• Monitor plant care, pest management, and equipment operation in controlled environments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Data collection

Record-keeping

Communication

Team mentoring

Problem-solving

Education

Associate degree in agriculture/related field

Tools

Greenhouse systems

Job description

Company Description

At Syngenta Seeds Field Crops, we're shaping the future of agriculture and empowering farmers to meet the ever-growing demand for food and fuel. We’re a 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 Operations & Trialing Team is seeking a Research Associate 2 in Malta, IL. This role will be responsible for executing and managing varied operational tasks in agricultural research, with a focus on operations within a controlled environment. Performs role responsibilities with weekly supervision.

Accountabilities:

• Execute daily operational activities within functional areas focused in a controlled environment.
• Perform data collection and reporting, small flower pollination, inventory management, accurate data and/or observations from trials, plant care, and perform standard processes and protocols. Update records and documentation and present performance metrics to management.
• Implement compliance in areas that may such as industry regulations, internal policies, HSE, EPA and WPS, equipment handling, quality standards, and best practices in agricultural research and operations.
• Train and mentor junior team members and seasonal staff in operational tasks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, improve communication, and ensure project success.
• Identify and implement process improvements and optimization strategies to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Monitor and maintain controlled environments, such as plant care, pest management, and equipment operation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate’s degree in agriculture, Operations Management, or related field, or 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Ability to effectively work in controlled environments.
• Ability to work multiple shifts, such as weekends.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform manual labor tasks, such as bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods.
• Accurate record-keeping of research documents.
• Ability to obtain necessary license or certification.

Desired:

• Demonstrated experience in agricultural operations, process improvement, and data collection.
• Strong understanding of agriculture and controlled environments.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, such as the ability to train and lead others.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Experience with greenhouse or indoor growing systems (preferred).
• Problem-solving skills and ability to identify root causes and apply corrective actions.

Additional Information

Salary for this position ranges between $55200 - $82,800 annually.

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 has been ranked as a top employer by Science Journal. Learn more about our team and our mission here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVCN_51GbNI

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

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