Job Description

Please note: this is a hybrid position. Candidates must be located within a two‑hour radius of Highland, IL.

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta’s Operations & Trialing Team is seeking a Trialing Specialist 3 in Chester, IL.

The purpose of the Research Associate 3 is to support the Trialing Manager in executing research level yield trials on time, with high precision and accuracy in a safe, compliant manner to generate the highest quality data to allow identification of superior performing products in corn and soybeans.

Accountabilities:

• Function as an integral member of a team responsible for planting, plot maintenance, spraying, note taking (phenotyping), and harvesting research‑level yield trial plots.
• Serve as the expert point of contact for the team on the operation and maintenance of agricultural machinery and/or agricultural research equipment, such as precision planters, drones, automated phenotyping equipment, and research combines.
• Set the standard for the team by performing all tasks and behaving in a manner compliant with and supportive of all safety and stewardship‑related company policies and practices, as well as completing all required company training courses.
• Explain and supervise tasks completed by full‑time, peak‑time, and third‑party contract labor to achieve the Trialing Manager’s desired results (e.g., assisting the team with field layout, planting, phenotyping, and harvest).
• Effectively and regularly communicate with peers and supervisors regarding project status, work‑related activities, and the quality and timeliness of data collected.
• Propose process improvements with impact at both local and regional levels.

Qualifications

** PLEASE NOTE:** Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without requiring current or future sponsorship (this also covers OPT/CPT and H‑1B visas).

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree (preferably in an agriculture-related discipline) with relevant experience is required. Associates degree with significant years of experience will be considered. Degreed candidates with relevant operational training or experience outside of agriculture will also be considered.
• Experience with precision agriculture equipment and software systems is required.
• A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driver’s history is required
• Ability to acquire and maintain a federal medical card to operate commercial motor vehicles is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a FAA Part 107 Certificate is desirable.
• In depth knowledge of agriculture and agronomy practices is required.
• A strong understanding of the practices and procedures that impact trial data precision and accuracy.
• Strong communication skills and proven ability to work well as part of a team.
• Pesticide Applicators License Holder or ability to acquire.
• Proficient with MS Office, especially Word and Excel, Smartsheets and other standard software.

Desired Skills

• Master’s degree (preferably in an agriculture-related discipline)

Additional Information

What We Offer:

• A culture that celebrates belonging & collaboration, 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 a top employer by Science Journal.
Learn more about our team and our mission here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVCN_51GbNI

Syngenta 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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