Agronomy Operations Specialist

Agronomy Operations Specialist

The Answer Plot Research Specialists are the operating arm of the Winfield United research program.

In this role you will perform all aspects of operational functions including but not limited to: farm equipment preparation & operation, seed prep, equipment transport, field operations (planting-harvest), drone flights and GIS applications for the approximately 9 research plot locations in the Bismarck, ND territory.

The Research Specialist will report to the Research Manager and will assist in planning and executing the research objectives for the territory.

This is a remote/virtual role and must be located in the Bismarck, ND area

Primary Responsibilities:


* Research plot maintenance and preparation- Considerable time is devoted to preparing sites to include planting, maintaining, spraying and harvesting the research plots.

Prepare for training sessions or grower field days.

Grooming plots and planning protocol execution to coincide with these events is paramount.


* Crop scouting/advising - Considerable time will be spent walking research plots to evaluate weed control, insect infestations and disease outbreaks, consulting with Agronomists or Technical Seed Managers on solutions, and planning operations to resolve issues with crop production.


* Help Train and Guide Summer Research Technicians (interns) -Summer Research Technicians require direction from Research Specialists to complete operational goals.

The Research Specialist develops workflows, task lists and trains Summer Research Technicians on skills necessary to complete the work in a timely manner with exceptional quality.


* Planning Activities - Assist his/her Research Manager in several planning and organizing tasks such as but not limited to the following: sourcing research sites, developing contracts, site layout, entry lists, database setup, equipment prep, fertilizer and crop protection planning, operational plans, and data flow planning.


* Work with Land O'Lakes safety team to ensure DOT and Safety compliance.

This includes tracking fuel receipts, RAIR compliance; ensuring proper logbook procedures are followed.

Experience and Education


* Bachelor's degree strongly desired; experience in lieu of degree may be considered


* Up to 2 years of small plot or Ag retail experience or previous Summer Research Technician experience


* Must have or be willing to obtain a Class A CDL and Pesticide Applicators License within first 60 days of employment


* Demonstrated computer skills in Microsoft suite of products (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)


* Ability to work independently and in a team environment


* Must have a valid driver's license acceptable to company policy in order to operate company vehicle


* Previous experience operating farm or research equipment strongly desired


* Role will require daily and overnight travel, as well as extended hours (including weekends) (50% or more)

Compet...