Production Research Assistant at Monsanto Company

Job description

Monsanto Africa Production Research team is seeking a motivated Production Research Assistant based in Lichtenburg reporting to Production Research Scientist West. This role will work closely within the Supply Chain department.

Job Summary

This role is responsible for the support and execution of high quality production research, parent test and process trials within South Africa. The assistant will also be responsible for planting and managing field trials, collecting and reporting of data and managing temporary workers reporting into this role. The main deliverables is to support the Production Research Scientist in any projects or activities that drives projects that will lead to improved yields, reliability and reduction of manufacturing cost.

Key Responsibilities

• General compliances:
• Follow all relevant Environmental, Safety and Health rules and regulations
• Follow all ISO9001:2015 standard operating procedure
• Parent test production research trials:
• Identify key areas (locations) and co-workers to conduct production research and parent test trials in the western maize production area of South Africa
• Plan, organize and execute production research and parent test trials, data collection and timely reporting of data in accordance with agreed procedures and protocols
• Operate a precision trial planter and GPS tractor system to ensure error free plot establishment
• Utilize in house research software for trial mapping, data quality checking, analysis and reporting
• Utilize in house electronic data collection software of all traits established in protocols
• Trial analysis:
• Participate in the Six Sigma program to gain necessary experience for future green belt certification
• Statistical sound data reporting and sharing of the results to stakeholders
• Connectivity:
• Support local production teams to address production challenges, execution of initiatives and implementation of recommendations
• Close relationship with the processing plant to supply necessary projects and research that will improve processing efficiency
• Other functions:
• Utilize SAP to create purchase order requisitions and approval of payments
• Management and supervision of Production Support temporary staff
• Manage the logistics behind planter, harvest and equipment movements
• Assist in the management of equipment maintenance and new innovations
• Must be able to travel and support the needs within South Africa and other countries in the CES Africa region

Required Qualifications And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related discipline. MSc in a relevant agricultural discipline is an added advantage.
• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role
• Hands-on experience in design and execution of field trial
• Knowledge of seed production or related crop production experience will be beneficial
• Experience in working in a team based environment
• Strong technical knowledge of related field and processing equipment

Desired Skills

• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills, especially English
• Willingness to work in field conditions
• Basic knowledge of seed or crop production, pests and disease identification and its control will be beneficial
• Computer literacy with MS Office and statistical related software
• Sound decision making and judgement skills
• Completes all assigned tasks on-time with minimal oversight
• Excellent relationship amd networking skills
• Good organizational skills
• Results orientation
• Must be willing and able to travel
• Code EB drivers license

Why work with us?

Life at Monsanto means collaborating with dedicated professionals in a stimulating environment.
Our people demonstrate our winning culture through positive and meaningful relationships.
You will work with market leading brand products in a global organization.
We provide competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and some of the best career development opportunities in the industry.
Monsanto is named Great Place to Work in many countries around the world.
Join our global team where your contribution will make a real difference!