Seed Science Operations Trait Development Agronomist

Role Overview

• Managing the agronomy of in-season seed to harvest activities for regulated field trials, data collection and recording, analysis of agronomic, quality data for trial reports.
• Monitoring and controlling isolation and post-harvest area for volunteer canola and related species, ensuring compliance is maintained.
• Assisting in the development of new methods and protocols for testing new traits and selecting events and allele combinations as well as providing feedback and suggestions to established methods and protocols to improve the efficiency and quality of the program.
• Adhering to stewardship, regulatory, and QMS compliance programs, policies, and procedures. This includes documentation, record keeping, data management, trial management, periodic trainings, audits, etc.
• Establishing and maintaining strong grower relations and supervision of summer associates and casual employees.
• Supporting the management of resources within assigned location, with the goal of achieving all objectives and effective operation of the program. This includes facility operation & management, equipment maintenance, inventory management, seasonal staff hiring & supervision, and seed lab activities.
• Participating in the local EHS program to ensure all activities are being performed safely and responsibly. This includes training of new employees and contributing to the safety culture within the team.
• Participating in regional planning and results meetings to establish alignment of protocols & resources, and to ensure trialing results are properly communicated and interpreted.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in agriculture or related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience, OR a diploma in agriculture or related discipline with 8 years of experience.
• Experience in the canola industry is required.
• Experience in conducting research trials using statistical design and analysis, canola agronomy, canola botany, plant breeding, genetics, pollen flow, and genetic purity, are all assets.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting tractors, sprayers, planters, plot combines, and other related small plot equipment an asset.
• A G endorsement (Heavy Trailer) or 1A is an asset as well as experience loading, unloading, and trailering equipment.
• Canadian Drone Pilot license is also an asset.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to be flexible and modify plans as required to minimize impact on data and production as situations arise.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team either as a member or supervising contract employees is required in fulfilling job responsibilities.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with growers.
• Experience with running statistical analysis is an asset.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Flexible working arrangements
• Professional development opportunities