Senior Agronomist

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Agronomist to join our sweet corn research team at Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc. (IFSI). As a key member of our research team, you will play a critical role in driving innovation and excellence in breeding, evaluation, and development of superior germplasm for use in vegetable seed markets worldwide.

Responsibilities:

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• Assist in variety testing activities, including coordinating testing sites, seed preparation, inventory management, planting, plot maintenance, and data collection\r
• Organize breeding nursery planning and coordination with 3rd party cooperators\r
• Lead pollination, tissue sampling, data collection, and disease inoculation in breeding nurseries\r
• Lead nursery harvest, drying, shelling, and treating of resulting seed\r
• Collect, summarize, and disseminate data for relevant traits in breeding nurseries and hybrid trials\r
• Manage part-time and seasonal labor to accomplish research program goals\r
• Assist in executing research project protocols, generating high-quality data, and communicating results\r
• Maintain and repair research equipment and facilities\r
• Coordinate seed shipment for internal and external destinations\r
• Ensure tasks are completed safely, accurately, and efficiently\r

Requirements:

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• Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in Horticulture, Crop Science, Agronomy, or related field\r
• Ability to operate and maintain basic farm equipment\r
• Pesticide applicator license required\r
• Excellent computer skills for data acquisition and reporting\r
• High attention to detail and accuracy in all activities\r
• Effective analysis and interpretation of data\r
• Strong written and verbal communication skills\r
• Able to work independently and lead teams\r
• Able to travel to contra-season nursery locations and hybrid trial testing sites\r
• Capable of working in greenhouse conditions or fields during periods of high heat, humidity, and rain\r
• Able to lift 75 pounds\r

What We Offer:

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• Salary: $80,000 - $100,000 per year, commensurate with experience\r
• Full benefit package: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD, 401k\r
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities\r
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment\r
• Opportunities for growth and advancement within the company\r

How to Apply:

Please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, to be considered for this exciting opportunity. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.