Operations Specialist

The purpose of Operations Specialist is to support the successful execution of sweet corn and green brean research trials in open field and greenhouse. This position combines hands on operation of specialized farm equipment with strategic leadership of third-party crews to ensure optimal trial management and data integrity.

• Assist in the end-to-end Trialing process to include setup and maintenance of yield trials from planting to harvest and tracking of different experimental entries.
• Operate and maintain GPS-equipped tractors/planters and other seed research equipment  with complex mechanical and electronic components.
• Use data collection tools to collect and record detailed observations and measurements from trial plots ensuring accuracy and consistency in data collection.
• Optimize the vegetable field-agronomy program by critically evaluating and implementing best practices to maximize crop yield and quality in open field and greenhouse environments.
• Function as an integral member of the operations team supporting all activities from seed to seed including but not limited to seed request packaging labelling seed treatment tissue sampling pollination data collection seed processing documentation training etc.
• Participate in research and process-improvement projects related to the growing of vegetables crops portfolio. 
• Managing coaching and training of third-party contract labor to ensure accurate results are achieved.
• Effectively communicating on a daily basis with peers breeding teams and supervisor regarding the status of projects and work activities.
• Follow and apply all HSE (Health Safety & Environment) and Stewardship practices as well as provide support to site management with the functional activities of a research facility.

Qualifications :

PLEASE NOTE -- Candidates must be already located in the United States and not require visa sponsorship.  This position is 100% onsite.

• BS/BA in agronomy horticulture plant science or an agricultural related field.
• Hands on experience in operating GPS-equipped tractors/planters combines embarked electronic equipment farming softwares robotics and other precision agriculture equipment.  
• Expert level experience in the operation adjustment maintenance and ability to do minor repairs on precision agriculture equipment including planters and combines is required.
• An expert level understanding of agriculture and agronomy practices is required.
• An expert level understanding of the practices and procedures that affect trial data quality is desirable.

Critical capabilities

• Pesticide Applicators License Holder or ability to acquire.
• Valid drivers license with an acceptable drivers history is required.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a federal medical card to operate commercial motor vehicles is required.
• Ability to use MS Office especially Word and Excel and other standard softwares.
• Ability to learn and use proprietary breeding management software systems.
• Ability to work in a team and to communicate with individuals throughout the organization.
• Must be available for unscheduled work based on field conditions and weather (including weekends).

Additional information

• All applicants must be eligible to work in the US without visa support.
• On-call for greenhouse emergencies or unscheduled work based on business needs or weather conditions (including weekends).
• Seasonal travel to off-station trialing locations.

Working Conditions/ Physical Demands

• Capable of working in high or low temperature conditions in field or greenhouse.
• Potential allergens: pollen fungal spores and chemical pesticides in the greenhouse.
• Work is performed in the field greenhouse lab and office.
• Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Capable of working long hours during time-critical periods of the growing season.

Additional Information :

What We Offer: 

• A culture that celebrates diversity & inclusion 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: 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. 

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