Field Agronomist II (White Heath, IL) - Bayer Corporation

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 Agronomist II (White Heath, IL)  

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Plan, manage and conduct internal research trials to obtain data defining the biological/chemical activity of experimental compounds identified as candidates for new product development with limited direct supervision from the Regional Manager.  May be called on to provide technical product training to Market Development Reps and internal colleagues as new products near registration and enter into pre-launch phase. The Field Agronomist II may also be called to interact locally at universities and other research organizations as needed to conduct trials in early research phases. The Field Agronomist II acts as a resource for Bayer management within the U.S. and is frequently involved with the evaluation and improvement of the new product development processes and positions.  All functions are conducted within approved company policies, procedures, and budgets.

The primary responsibilities of this role, Field Agronomist II, are to: 

1. NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT:  Primarily responsibility for the timely completion of biological performance studies for compounds in the field development phase of new product discovery and development. Significant involvement in early-stage testing is expected. A Field Agronomist II independently conducts, supervises and coordinates studies and has the overall responsibility for the appropriate design and timely completion of all studies in the designated territory or Technology Station. The incumbent must provide data on product efficacy so that it can be included in decision making processes, within strict budget guidelines and summarize research findings and recommend future research activities.  With some supervision or guidance, decides research cooperators, GIA allocation, future testing needs, local, district, and regional product potential, budget management, and intern selection ;

1. TECHNOLOGY EXCHANGE: May assist Market Development Reps with University Cooperator relationships; in some cases of early phase testing, may serve as a local Bayer contact for University Research Staff and other key influencers and establish a working partnership with them.  Make technical knowledge transfer presentations to internal customers and at scientific meetings to promote and create interest in new products and upcoming Bayer technology;

1. INFLUENCER ACTIVITIES: Network with peers in Agronomic Operations (Field Based Reps), Market Development Reps, Regional Manager, and Agronomic Services Managers in Product Development to identify new business opportunities, explore means to capitalize on these opportunities, and to optimize Bayer resources.   If internal capabilities are not available for trials execution, position protocols and GIA with cooperators to achieve trial objectives. Maintain direct interface with key researchers and University personnel to keep updated on new technology and pest problems.  Serve as a Bayer Crop Science Ambassador. The incumbent may also be asked to provide assistance to Market Development with training and demonstration activities. Leadership skills are demonstrated with both internal and external customers and utilize these skills in service to programs, societies, organizations, and projects;

1. SAFETY: Responsible for safety in handling and storage of pesticides, vehicle and equipment used to conduct field trials. Assist with safety training;

1. TEAM BASED ACTIVITIES: Cooperate with region peers, Agronomic Services Managers and Market Development Reps to conduct biological trials in areas or crops not readily available at other locations;

1. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH: Maintain an active status in appropriate professional societies and industry groups and prepare and deliver technical presentations at meetings;

1. Position entails driving a company vehicle. This may include being required to drive greater than 5,000 business miles annually in a personal, pooled, or rented vehicle OR being expected to frequently drive a pooled car as part of your job duties – regardless of mileage;

1. Position requires driving for the company that will (may) fall under DOT/FMCSA jurisdiction. This may entail the hauling of trailers, product, supplies or equipment in a safe manner.

WHO YOU ARE

Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree;
• Evidence of proficiency and innovation at the previous position must be evident in addition to experience;
• Valid driver’s license; Driving record (MVR) will be reviewed and must meet guidelines based on the company’s Risk Screening for Hiring Drivers;
• Position requires driving for the company that may fall under DOT/FMCSA jurisdiction. This may entail the hauling of trailers, product, supplies or equipment in a safe manner;
• Have or be able to obtain a valid State Pesticide Applicators License in working geography within 60 days;
• Up to 20% local travel;
• Ability to lift up to 60lbs;
• Functional knowledge of all key and most secondary crops and pests within the territory is essential;
• Working knowledge in three pest control disciplines;
• Incumbent must be a proven resource for innovation, trial design, and conduct of field trials, with regional/national familiarity with crop/pest biology and management principals in the area of his/her specialty;
• Advanced communication and human relations skills are necessary to perform the duties of the position, influence decision makers and project a positive Bayer technical image;
• Advanced analytical and creative skills are needed to identify and take advantage of new business opportunities within the territory;
• The workload requires advanced organizational, prioritization, and planning skills;
• Time management skills are critical to manage an internal research program to create recommendations for new product labels and cultivate professional relationships both internally and with external cooperators;
• Advanced interpersonal skills are required for effective interaction with key influencers; Peers and other Bayer Crop Science personnel recognize individuals in this position as one to seek for advice in problem solving;
• Capable of operating experimental and commercial spray equipment and laboratory equipment;
• Summarize protocols with Regional impact;
• Good to excellent working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• BS degree plus 7 years of demonstrated skills and relevant experience, or a master’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience, or a PhD plus 3 years relevant experience in the evaluation of crop production technologies.

Domestic relocation assistance may be offered for this role.

Sponsorship may be provided.

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