Research Agronomist in Ankeny, IA 50023

OBJECTIVE: The Research Agronomist will work with the RCFI team, farmers, ag retail, sponsors, collaborators, and landowners across Iowa to execute on-farm, agronomic research that is critically important to farmers’ ability to increase profitability, productivity, and sustainability. This role will provide technical assistance and communicate results to increase active farmer participation and engagement in programs and projects. Relationship-building, agronomy, and project management are key skillsets for success in this role. This position reports to the RCFI Research Agronomy Lead.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Contribute to the conception and development of innovative on-farm research programming that emphasizes agronomics and combines conservation for ISA’s farmer participants and stakeholders
Execute on-farm research trials and projects including: farmer recruitment, collection of data and management information, and dissemination of results
Coordinate with Conservation Agronomists to connect farmers with opportunities to identify and implement appropriate in-field and edge-of-field conservation products and practices for improved soil and water resource management practices and systems to maximize productivity and address resource concerns, farmer/landowner goals, and watershed project goals
Organize and lead participant group meetings to increase participation, understanding, and adoption of new practices
Promote and encourage increased farmer participation on ISA on-farm research projects and programs
Develop both written and verbal presentations, guides, protocols, and communication outreach materials when needed to support research programs and projects
Assist RCFI Research Agronomy Lead in preparing work plans, budgets, quarterly and annual reports, and help support new project contracts and grant development
Assist team in designing and implementing an engagement and communication strategy to increase farmer participation and increase the effective dissemination of project results and communicate and promote the value of research programs
Assist RCFI team in development and implementation of operational procedures, data management procedures, and other tools to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and reliability
Conduct education and outreach of data summarizations, including individual site, cross-site, and overall program level, to various audiences including farmers, non-farmers, and stakeholders
Coordinate with other ISA departments and staff embracing the culture of ISA and emulate that to the team

COMPETENCIES

Practical understanding and application of agronomy, especially field and/or on-farm research
Demonstrate initiative
Act as a champion of change
Relationship and network building
Demonstrates exceptional customer service
Evaluating and implementing ideas
Effective oral and written communication, especially with farmers
Prioritizing and executing work efficiently and effectively
Provide technical assistance to farmers, team members, and all stakeholders

LOCATION

Ankeny or residence within the state of Iowa, dependent on the candidate.

TRAVEL

This position requires up to 50% travel, primarily in Iowa. Frequently, travel is outside the local area and may be overnight.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no current supervisory responsibility. Some supervision for intern or temporary employees may be required.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in agronomy, environmental sciences, agricultural engineering, biological sciences, ecology, ag economics, or related field.
3-5 years of experience working in agronomy, agronomy sales, or conservation agronomy
Strong understanding of:

Strong technical knowledge of soybean cropping systems and agronomy
Experience in agricultural industry and ag retail system
On-farm research and/or applied field plot research

Capable of working in a team environment while working independently to achieve specific project deliverables.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with diverse technical and non-technical audiences
Understanding of computer technologies including data storage, statistical software, GIS, and monitoring equipment interfaces

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Master’s degree in agronomy, environmental sciences, agricultural engineering, biological sciences, ecology, ag economics, or related field
5-7 years of professional working experience in agriculture sales or consulting organization
Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) certification

BENEFITS

Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
Flexible Spending Account available
Cellphone and Wellness reimbursement
Fitness center
401(k) with generous company match
Tuition reimbursement program
Dress for your Day Dress Code