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)
Competencies & Other Skills
Communication – Delivers clear, concise, and effective verbal and written messages directed to the appropriate audience(s).
Delivers Results – Makes commitments and keeps them. Gets things done in collapsed time frames. Reduces complexity and increases focus. Delivers industry leading results. Adaptability/Flexibility – Maintains effectiveness despite changes. Can change direction quickly. Can support/adapt to change.
Integrity – Demonstrates honesty, is widely trusted, keeps commitments, treats people with dignity and respect.
Critical Thinking Skills – Gathers and integrates critical information to arrive at effective solutions. Breaks down problems into simple tasks or activities.
Customer Focus – Responds appropriately and takes personal responsibility for meeting customers’ expectations. Maintains effective communications with customers.
Other skills: Must have ability to lift 50 lbs, able to climb on and off of farm/research equipment and be able to walk and work in field plots. In addition, should be able to communicate with all levels (verbal and written), as well as concentration, memory and decision making all part of normal job expectations.
Environment: Farm/research equipment can be loud, fields are dusty and dirty, and weather conditions can vary from hot and humid to cold and wet
Salary Range: $59,840-$89,760
About Land O'Lakes, Inc.
Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list.
Benefits for most full-time roles include medical, dental, vision, PTO, life & disability insurance, education assistance, a 401k and a variety of well-being resources. Most part-time employees are eligible for prorated PTO, holiday pay, employee development programs, prorated education assistance, and a 401(k).
Land O'Lakes, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) M/F/Vets/Disabled. The company maintains a drug-free workforce, including post-employment substance abuse testing pursuant to a Drug and Alcohol Policy.
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