Job Description

Position Summary

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Field Research Agronomist is responsible for executing field operations (from planting to harvesting) in small plot trials located at multiple research sites. This is a multifaceted role which requires a combination of reporting, analysis, labour, and supervisory skills ensuring that field trials are completed to a high standard and provide a high standard of data. Outside of the growing season this position is responsible for seed preparation, data analysis, indoor operational support and general maintenance in anticipation of future activities.

Responsibilities

? Operate small plot equipment (tractor, combine) executing all stages of field work, including seeding, spraying, rototilling and harvest on a variety of crops, including canola, wheat, soybeans, hemp, etc.

? Must be comfortable loading and hauling small plot equipment while following all safety protocols and guidelines

? Where appropriate, operate various hand tools for harvesting (shears, scythe, machete, etc.) to collect, harvest and maintain field trials

? Apply appropriate crop protection products according to manufacturer's specifications ensuring that proper safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) is used

? Utilize GPS technology in trials, including block layouts and automatic tripping mechanisms

? Assist in all aspects of trial operations including site selection & preparation (fertilizer, flagging, etc.), site layout, seed treating & packaging, seeding preparation, all field operations, data collection, sample preparation and quality analysis

? Comply with stewardship protocols and assist with site maintenance including rouging, required operations and all necessary documentation

? Regularly visit and inspect remote sites throughout to ensure trials adhere to required specifications and standards

? Assist in any aspect of trial preparation, including arranging trials, stickering, seed counting

? Accurately inspect, measure and record attributes both in qualitative and quantitative measures

? Troubleshoot equipment issues in the field

? Regularly inspect and review equipment to ensure that it meets maintenance and lease specifications

? Provide input into writing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for trialing and seed operations

? Communicate with landowners to address current and future issues affecting plot management, escalating any concerns to the Operations Manager

? (Where required) assist with training and coordinating of Breeding Assistants and summer students/interns

? Operate lab equipment in warehouse ex: seed counter, NIR machine etc.

? Contribute to indoor operations and special projects as well as upkeep and maintenance of site locations in the "off-season" through snow removal, minor repairs to buildings and equipment

? Remain current on best practices in seed production research methodologies and trialing

? Attend research meetings and provide constructive feedback to the management team

? Other duties as required/assigned

Qualifications

Formal Education or Equivalent

? Minimum Diploma or BS in Agronomy, Plant Science or Botany

? (Preferred) Professional Agronomist (PA) designation

? (Preferred) Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) designation

? (Preferred) Certified in Pesticide Application license

? Valid Class 5 driver's license (Class 3 preferred

? Must currently reside and be legally able to work in Canada

Years of Experience

? Minimum 1-3 years of experience in field evaluation trials in prairie field crops

? Experience working with and operating tractors, combines and farm machinery

Characteristics

? Comfortable working in a fast-paced start-up environment

? Highly independent, goal-oriented and solution driven

? Strong verbal and written communication skills

? Strong computer skills with general utility software (spreadsheets, word processing)

? Self-starter and able to proactively address challenges

? Ability to work well within time constraints, able to effectively prioritize in a high demand environment within multiple locations

? Must be able to travel within Manitoba and possible occasional seasonal travel throughout Canada (BC, AB, SK, ON)

? Ability to work additional hours during seeding and harvesting

? Ability to travel ~50% of the time

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $60,500.00-$80,500.00 per year

Schedule:

Monday to Friday Overtime
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-03-25
Expected start date: 2025-04-03