Sprayer Systems & Application Tech Lead — Field Innovator

Digital Ag Innovation Lab; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Digital Ag Innovation Lab at Iowa State University seeks a Sprayer Systems and Application Technology Lead to build and lead a program focused on development, testing, and field evaluation of agricultural application systems. This hands-on role blends engineering, field research, and sponsor relations to advance liquid, dry, and variable-rate technologies.

This role involves working with engineers, agronomists, researchers, and industry partners to push equipment design, application parameters,

Qualifications

• Experience with agricultural application systems, precision agriculture, agriculture equipment, agronomy, crop production, or related technology development.
• Understanding of engineering principles affecting application performance (droplet size, pressure, flow, speed).
• Experience with field trials, lab testing, product evaluation, or system benchmarking.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, testing, and field validation of agricultural application systems, including spray, fertilizer, and targeted delivery technologies.
• Define technical and agronomic requirements and develop field and laboratory test methods, performance measures, and validation plans.
• Evaluate how application systems and operating parameters affect application performance, crop response, input use, and field productivity.
• Analyze field and system data to guide technology development and improve application performance.
• Lead and mentor engineers, technicians, students, and research staff while coordinating work across agronomy, engineering, and industry partners.
• Lead research projects and develop new industry opportunities, including scope, resources, budgets, schedules, sponsor communication, and delivery.

Skills

Ag application systems

Droplet size/pressure/flow

Field trials

Cross-functional leadership

Project leadership

Agricultural equipment

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Digital Ag Innovation Lab at Iowa State University seeks a Sprayer Systems and Application Technology Lead to build and lead a program focused on development, testing, and field evaluation of agricultural application systems. This hands-on role blends engineering, field research, and sponsor relations to advance liquid, dry, and variable-rate technologies.

This role involves working with engineers, agronomists, researchers, and industry partners to push equipment design, application parameters,