Corn Breeder – Research & Development

Job ID: BH330215

Category: Researcher

We are conducting a client search for an experienced corn breeder to join their Research & Development organization. The Corn Breeder develops, tests, identifies, and documents stable corn hybrids that create the highest net return for corn growers in Wyffels’ target market. This position gathers technical information that will characterize, position, and manage corn hybrids and seed technology for optimal performance. The Corn Breeder also disseminates information to sales and marketing that enables accurate product positioning and management and subsequent increases in sales and company profits.

This position reports to the Director of Research and is a part of the Research & Development Department. This department is responsible for planning and coordinating research activities, including corn breeding, testing, and hybrid commercialization.

Responsibilities:
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.
• Develop, identify and classify new products (base genetics) that are superior to current lineup.
• Conduct inbred line development in an effective, efficient, and timely manner.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for a specified RM zone.
• Coordinate testing activities, advancement decisions, and test seed availability for an assigned relative maturity zone (e.g. 100-105 RM).
• Plan, conduct, and summarize agronomic experiments as requested by Director of Research.
• Work with the Agronomy Management team to provide hybrid characteristics, product placement, new traits, and general agronomic information to the sales department.
• Review region sales projections and coach District Sales Managers and Region Managers on product life cycles within assigned RM zone.
• Maintain and enhance personal knowledge of genetics and technology through contacts in the seed industry, self-study, and professional meetings.
• Adhere to the principles outlined in the company’s mission and vision statement.
• Observe company safety and driving policies.

Requirements:

Qualifications:
• A PhD in plant breeding, plant science, agronomy, or closely related field is preferred. An MS degree and 10 or more years of related experience may also qualify.
• A minimum of 8 years of corn breeding experience.

Required:
• Excellent oral, presentation and written communications skills.
• Successfully interact with a wide range of persons in agriculture. (i.e., customers, seed reps, RMs, DSM’s, Research Group members, management)
• Excellent computer skills including spreadsheet, database and statistical analysis.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to perform tasks and achieve results with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.
• Remain abreast of current scientific advancements through self-study and by attending professional meetings.
• Gather, organize and display information effectively for presentations.
• Maintain security and confidentiality of information, demonstrating discretion and professionalism.
• Demonstrate the ability to manage time and meet deadlines.
• Valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Voice Voice communication with co-workers Daily
Standing Presentations and field inspections Frequently
Sitting At Desk Frequently
Typing/Writing Type & enter data into computer, complete paper work and forms, take notes, send electronic mail Frequently
Stooping Inspecting fields During growing season
Lifting Up to 25 pounds of equipment/seed

During Growing Season - Outside working conditions during part of the growing season may include long hours in variable weather conditions. Overnight travel is required approximately 30 days per year. The noise level is moderate for the majority of the job responsibilities. During the planting and harvest season, the noise level at research test sites may be greater.

The Planet Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Type:: Direct
Location:: Geneseo, IL, USA