Field Testing Agronomist

at  Bayer Crop Science

At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where ,Health for all, Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining ‘impossible’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice.
Field Testing Agronomist
This position is responsible for implementing a small plot field research program in Canola. Other row crops may also be part of the field-testing program. Primary responsibilities of the role are coordinating, negotiating, and contracting leased land for field research trials; acquiring local staffing for in-season activities; conducting research activities such as pre-season planning, planting, phenotyping, study management, harvest, and data analysis.
Partnering with breeding scientists, the position optimizes programs and uses cutting edge proprietary digital systems and equipment. All activities work together to facilitate trial execution that feeds the R&D pipeline. Additionally, the role will work with other remote Field-Testing Agronomists and/or sites on functional initiatives to improve data quality, standard operating procedures, or quality/compliance actions. We are looking for someone to be part of our dynamic and results driven team, working closely with the Field Testing Agronomists (FTAs) in Western Canada and our hub in Saskatoon.
This is a remote, field-based permanent position with frequent local travel, based in the Crossfield, Alberta area.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor of Science degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience; OR Masters of Science degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience, OR PhD with relevant experience
Experience/knowledge of precision agriculture hardware and software (i.e. FieldView/UAV’s/Drones)
History of implementing continuous improvements and innovation

Ensure safe and efficient operation of the research program in alignment with Bayer’s HSE, Quality, Compliance and Stewardship requirements, and Business Code of Conduct and Ethics Standards
Partner with Plant Breeders, Planners, Innovation Scientists, Data Scientists, and Agronomic Research Specialists to generate data that allows us to develop and deploy top-performing products in ways that fit each grower’s unique operation and environment
Regular interaction with other Field-Testing Agronomists, Agronomic Research Specialists, Operations Guides, and Principal Investigators is expected in order to facilitate efficient trial planning and placement, sharing of ideas and techniques and quick response to issues that may arise (e.g. weather or pests affecting trials)
Perform field selection, cooperator relations, site preparation, mapping/field design and maintenance of multiple field-testing locations; arrange contracted equipment hauling vendors as needed. Requires safe driving including frequent trailer use hauling loads in excess of 10,000 lbs; pre-trip inspections and use of log books
Maintain field trial sites as weed, insect and disease free; confident agronomic ability in identifying key weeds, insect and disease problems is critical, as is timely and accurate implementation of control measures
Leverage various digital and mechanical platforms to collect, analyze, and deliver data on various agronomic traits in a timely manner throughout the growing season; opportunities to work with cutting edge innovation and proof of concept projects
Be accountable for functional program performance and/or project results through leadership, strategic planning, and coordination across partners; prioritize and monitor tasks to ensure completion within deadlines and discretionary budget
Partner with the Regional Lead on a targeted business and personal development goal plan that aligns with Bayer’s values, leverage opportunities and empower the innovative and digitally advanced environment to grow in your career and impact the Crop Science business
Agility, communication, self-motivation, and strategic thinking are key to success in this role;
Frequent local travel within the area, plus potential overnight travel during peak times