Job Title: Agronomist/Field Scientist

• 4 month contract to potential full time hire.
• Start time is anywhere between 5-7 am depending on weather. Full time 40 hours a week
• Best candidate: PhD with degree within plant science or related. Someone with pesticide experience.
• This position is 75% field work and 25% remote computer work
• Main office is in Shafter, but will need someone open to traveling from different sites.

Job Description

Our organization is seeking a Contractor Field Scientist/Intern to join our Crop Health Research and Development (CHRD) Integrated Field Science (IFS) team in the South San Joaquin Valley of California. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing and overseeing self-initiated trials in various locations such as Shafter, Corcoran, Five Points, and Dinuba. This position involves using scientific and agronomic skills to carry out the CHRD project workplan for trials in entomology, weed science, plant pathology, and nematology. The role requires collaboration with the CHRD Field Science Leader and other stakeholders to plan and implement field trials focused on the efficacy, crop safety, and characterization of crop protection and biostimulant technologies.

Responsibilities

• Establish, implement, evaluate, record, summarize, and archive field research focused on approved biology research questions.
• Interact effectively with other Field Scientists, biology leaders, and commercial counterparts, collaborating on various research programs.
• Perform robust data summary, statistical analysis, and reporting activities for project stakeholders.
• Champion a world-class safety culture by actively learning, applying, and promoting best-in-class safety processes and procedures.

Essential Skills

• MS degree or PhD in Entomology, Weed Science, Plant Pathology, or related field of study, or 5+ years of direct experience in a similar role.
• Experience with applied agricultural field trial work.
• Good understanding of statistical tools and principles commonly used in agricultural field trial activities.
• Significant experience with pesticide applications and ability to obtain a valid applicator license.
• Familiarity with farming and field trial equipment, such as tractors, sprayers, and implements.
• Good organizational skills to plan and coordinate experiments across multiple projects.
• Ability and willingness to work independently and during non-conventional work hours.
• Excellent personal interaction skills for developing strong internal and external working relationships.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to drive.
• Availability to work during significant trial efforts in the current growing season.
• Ability to work outside during high summer temperatures.
• Ability to get medically approved for a respirator.
• Able to regularly lift 30 lbs and occasionally 50 lbs.
• Fluency in English.
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Work Environment

This role involves research conducted outside and in the field, often during high summer temperatures. Candidates must be able to work in these conditions and adhere to safety protocols.