Field Research Scientist (Northern South Dakota)

Bayer•Kennebec, SD

8d•Onsite

About The Position

At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where 'Health for all Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining ‘impossible’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice. Field Research Scientist (Northern South Dakota) Field Research Scientist (Northern South Dakota) At Bayer, we’re visionaries driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where our inclusive vision, health for all...hunger for none, is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re pioneering technology and digitalization, working with cutting edge science, technology, and equipment paving the way for us to achieve the unimaginable like innovating in agriculture and empowering farmers, helping our planet to thrive. Through a diverse and inclusive team, we’re doing it with energy, curiosity, and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities, and redefining ‘impossible’. Our Field Research Scientists are paramount in our ability to make this vision a reality. The Field Research Scientist role is a field facing role responsible for carrying out small plot field research activities in corn, soybeans and wheat based in Northern South Dakota and South-Central North Dakota. Primary responsibilities of the role are coordinating, negotiating, and contracting leased land for field research trials; acquiring local staffing for in-season activities; conducting research activities such as pre-season planning, planting, phenotyping, study management, harvest, and data analysis. All activities work together to facilitate trial execution that feeds the R&D pipeline. Additionally, the role will work with other remote Field Research Scientists andites on functional initiatives to improve data quality, standard operating procedures, or quality/compliance actions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
Strong technical aptitude and ability to work with connected systems and data management
Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative team-based environment
Ability to learn and operate research agriculture equipment, including precision agriculture technology
Knowledge or ability to learn region-specific crop production and farming practices
Knowledge of basic statistical analysis and experimental design principles
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Must live in or relocate to the growing area associated with the role – Northern South Dakota and South-Central North Dakota
Valid driver’s license; Driving record (MVR) will be reviewed and must meet guidelines based on the company’s Risk Screening for Hiring Drivers
DOT medical card or the ability to obtain one through successfully completing and passing a DOT physical. In addition, candidates must be able to meet all applicable DOT/FMCSA criteria. Drivers with previous DOT driving experience may be required to undergo FMCSA safety checks and applicable review
Federal regulations from the Department of Transportation cover this position and mandate the passing of certain preemployment requirements, such as a background check, drug test and physical
Ability to obtain Pesticide Applicators License and FAA part 107 Certification for Unmanned Aerial Systems
Ability to safely lift up to 50lbs.
Work in conditions that require sitting, standing, walking for extended periods
Ability to work in high and low temperatures in a field setting
Capable of working long hours, primarily during the peak busy field season

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Science in agronomy, ag sciences, life sciences, engineering, or related field with at least 5 years of relevant experience
Experience in agricultural research, seed technology industry or plant breeding
Broad knowledge of region-specific crop production and farming practices
Mechanical and IT aptitude
Experience with precision agriculture hardware and software
History of implementing continuous improvements and innovation

Responsibilities

Ensure safe and efficient operation of the research program in alignment with Bayer’s HSE (Health Safety & Environment), Quality, Compliance and Stewardship requirements, and Business Code of Conduct and Ethics Standards
Collaborate with Field Testing peers, Product Development Scientists, Planners, and other stakeholders to deliver detailed experimental protocols that enable advancement decisions by our scientists and product placement decisions for our customers
Operate equipment such as tractors and specialized planters, modified commercial harvesters, commercial drones, and other technologies and digital tools to collect, analyze, and deliver data on various agronomic traits in a timely manner throughout the growing season. Leverage knowledge of internal operations to work with internal partners on cutting edge innovation and proof of concept projects focused on improving tools and processes
Perform field selection, cooperator relations, site preparation, mapping/field design and maintenance of multiple field-testing locations; arrange contracted equipment hauling vendors as needed
Supervise and direct third-party labor or seasonal staff to achieve trial and business objectives
Be accountable for the performance of your growing area through self-motivation, problem solving, and decision making with respect to time, prioritization, and project management
Build and leverage networks across diverse teams and functions, with the ability to be agile, open to change, and engaged in continuous learning
Partner with manager on a targeted business and personal development goal plan that aligns with Bayer’s Dynamic Shared Ownership behaviors, leverage development opportunities to grow in your career and impact the Crop Science business
Travel up to 15% of the time particularly during peak seasons
Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons (including non-traditional day-time hours with the potential of overnight travel)
Position entails driving a company vehicle (pooled or assigned to the individual). This may include being required to drive greater than 5,000 business miles annually in a company supplied vehicle OR being expected to frequently drive a pooled car as part of your job duties – regardless of mileage
Position may require driving for the company that will fall under region-specific jurisdictions (US DOT/FMCSA or Transport Canada) and may require a specialized license, enabling the hauling of trailers, product, supplies or equipment in a safe manner