Wheat Breeding Station Technician - Field Ops & Data

KWS SAAT SE; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 34,440 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Pension plan and 401(k) with employer

Flexible PTO

Professional training and development

Job summary

KWS Cereals USA in Champaign, IL is seeking a Station Technician to support wheat breeding activities from planting to harvest. You will assist the Station Manager and operate field equipment, collect data, and ensure quality and safety standards are met.

The role requires outdoor work, valid driver's license, ability to travel, and basic computer skills. This permanent, full-time position is based in Champaign, IL and offers professional growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of crop production, farming practices, and farm equipment operation and repair.
• Good mechanical skills.
• Ability to work outdoors.
• Ability to work non-standard hours when needed.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to obtain and maintain a CDL.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a forklift driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a pesticide applicators license.
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally.
• HS diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Technical support of the wheat breeding activities in the USA.
• Support the Station Manager in executing field research operations at all locations, including preparation, sowing, maintenance, and harvest of the breeding nursery and yield trials.
• Operate proprietary software for data collection.
• Operate small research equipment including tractors, plot planters, sprayers, and plot combines.
• Ensure that company assets are adequately maintained.
• Assist breeders in field data collection and harvest activities.
• Coordinate necessary activities to turn around seeds between harvest and sowing.
• Train and provide technical supervision to seasonal staff.
• Maintain purchasing within budget and authority levels.
• Work variable hours as needed.
• Travel regularly and/or drive on behalf of the business.
• Meet attendance requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Crop production knowledge

Mechanical skills

Outdoor work

Driver's license

Forklift license (intent to obtain)

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

BA/BS in Agriculture (preferred)

Tools

Data collection software

Field equipment operation tools

Job description

KWS Cereals USA in Champaign, IL is seeking a Station Technician to support wheat breeding activities from planting to harvest. You will assist the Station Manager and operate field equipment, collect data, and ensure quality and safety standards are met.

The role requires outdoor work, valid driver's license, ability to travel, and basic computer skills. This permanent, full-time position is based in Champaign, IL and offers professional growth opportunities.