Research Associate at Corteva Agriscience

You will be part of a team that is building the future of agriculture – leading breakthroughs in the innovation and application of science and technology. In this role, you will use your research/agricultural experience to execute the day-to-day operations and maintenance at our Delmas research facility. In collaboration with other functions and breeding programs you will oversee land preparation, manage irrigation scheduling, planting, and harvesting. 

Your Challenge:

• Ensures efficient field preparation takes place and maintenance of crops on the farm 
• Ensuring precision farming practices are implemented on an R & D level – fertilizer & chemical application, weed control, pest control, crop rotations
• Responsible for day-to-day operations, maintenance (handling of contractors) and upkeep on the farm, including labor relations and scheduling.
• Responsible for day-to-day maintenance of research equipment including irrigation systems, tractors, planters
• Interact with breeding and other functions with a mindset focused on continuous improvement
• Assist with field allocation, ensuring adherence to spatial and/or temporal isolation to maintain the company’s good track record in regulatory compliance
• On the ground implementation and training on new equipment and processes
• Lead the implementation of safety programs and protocols (safety, efficiency, effectiveness) specific to direct work environment to identify and communicate potential risks and benefits
• Complete personal development activities as part of a performance management and development plan

Key Stakeholders and Interactions: You will work in collaboration with the Operations manager, Breeders and other SRA’s 

Qualifications

To Grow What Matters, You Will Need 

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or scientific related field plus 3 years industry related experience required
• Strong background in agronomy
• Extensive knowledge on pesticides and herbicides would be beneficial.
• Experience with irrigation systems and scheduling.
• Proven ability to make timely decisions and solve problems
• Excellent interpersonal/communication skills are required for fostering teamwork, enhancing a good working environment, and effectively developing strong working relationships with a diverse group of people
• Ability to supervise and prioritize multiple tasks is critical
• Technical and mechanical skills for troubleshooting, maintenance, and upkeep of equipment, to ensure excellent condition and safety of equipment at any time.
• Proficiency in Office software such as spreadsheets, mail, calendar, and presentation software.
• Always comply with safety regulations and country laws, lead in way which will inspire all team members and follow the example
• After hours work is required
• Ability to work outside in all kinds of weather
• Valid driver’s license is required
• Ability to operate power equipment is recommended.  (Timing of pesticides and herbicides could fall outside normal office hours)

Who Are We Looking For?

• Curious, bold thinkers who want to grow their careers and be part of a winning team
• Market shaping individuals who want to transform the agriculture industry to meet the world’s growing need for food
• Collaborators who thrive in a diverse, inclusive work environment
• Innovators who bring initiative and fresh ideas that drive our business into the future and make us an industry leader