Research Associate 2

Syngenta; Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full Benefits Package

401k Plan with match

Paid Vacation & Holidays

Job summary

Syngenta Seeds Field Crops is seeking a Research Associate 2 to support regulated trait evaluation field trials in corn and soybeans, ensuring high precision data collection and timely execution. You will locate testing sites, plant, phenotype, harvest, and maintain trial plots while following all stewardship protocols.

Ideal candidates have a master’s or relevant bachelor’s degree, experience with precision ag equipment and software, and a strong ability to work independently and in teams.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in agriculture or related field, or a bachelor’s degree with relevant experience.
• Experience with precision agriculture equipment and software systems.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain necessary licenses (e.g., Part 107, pesticides) as applicable.

Responsibilities

• Locate and contract high quality testing locations for field trials and manage planting, maintenance, spraying, phenotyping and harvesting.
• Act as the site’s subject matter expert for regulated field trials and ensure proper documentation and stewardship.
• Serve as the primary contact for assigned testing locations and coordinate with the Trialing Manager.
• Maintain and operate agricultural machinery and research equipment including drones and phenotyping systems.
• Ensure safety and compliance with company policies and complete required training.
• Guide full-time and contract labor to achieve trial results and assist with field layout, planting, phenotyping, and harvest.
• Communicate progress and data quality to peers and supervisors; propose process improvements.

Skills

Precision ag equipment

Software systems

Education

Master’s degree in agriculture or related field

Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience

Associate’s degree with significant experience

Tools

Precision planters

Drones

Automated phenotyping equipment

Research combines

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

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

Job Description

We are seeking a Research Associate 2 to support the Trait Evaluation regulated field trial network in executing regulated research yield trials on time, with high precision and accuracy in a safe and compliant manner, to generate the highest quality data to allow identification of superior performing products in corn and soybeans.

Accountabilities

• Serve as an integral member of the team responsible for locating and contracting high quality testing locations, planting, plot maintenance, spraying, note-taking (phenotyping), and harvesting research trial plots
• Serve as the subject matter expert for all regulated field trials conducted by the site, ensuring that all paperwork, documentation, and stewardship protocols are followed
• Function as the key contact for the assigned testing locations
• Serve as an expert on operations and maintenance of agricultural machinery and research equipment, including precision planters, drones, automated phenotyping equipment, and research combines
• Set the standard for the local team by performing all tasks in compliance with and in support of all safety and stewardship-related company policies and practices, including completion of all required company training courses
• Guide and supervise all tasks completed by both full-time and third-party contract labor to achieve the Trialing Manager’s desired results, e.g., assisting the team with field layout, planting, phenotyping, harvest, etc.
• Effectively and regularly communicate with peers and supervisors regarding the status of crop destruct projects, work-related activities, and the quality and timeliness of collected data
• Propose process improvements that positively impact both local and regional sites
• Support other activities based on business and team needs

Qualifications

PLEASE NOTE: Candidates must reside in and be permanently authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship. This includes, but is not limited to, OPT, CPT, and H-1B visa holders.

• Master’s degree (preferably in an agriculture-related discipline) or a bachelor’s degree with relevant experience is required. Associate’s degree with significant years of experience will be considered. Degreed candidates with relevant operational training or experience outside of agriculture will also be considered.
• Experience with precision agriculture equipment and software systems
• A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to acquire and maintain:
  • Part 107 Federal Aviation Administration is desirable
  • Federal medical card to operate commercial motor vehicles is required
  • Class A CDL is desirable
  • Pesticide Applicators License
• In depth knowledge of agriculture and agronomy practices is required
• A strong understanding of the practices and procedures that impact trial data precision and accuracy
• Strong communication skills and proven ability to work well both independently and as part of a team
• Experience working with regulated material is desirable

Additional Information

What We Offer:

• A culture that celebrates belonging & 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 atop employerby Science Journal.

Learn more about ourteamand ourmission 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.

WL2A

Salary range for this position is $55,200 - $82,800 annually