R&D Manager - Land O'Lakes Inc.

• The R&D Manager position will manage a 40-acre Research Farm and Associated Staff. Looking for scientific background and contributions in one of the following areas: Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Weed Science, Nematology, Entomology, or Plant Pathology. Management of personnel to successfully achieve company goals in an established, fast paced, team environment.

Job Responsibilities:

Execute Breeding & Trait Development Projects: Manage staff to complete overall breeding and trait development goals. Oversee projects in field and greenhouse environments. Field activities include farm operations relating to establishment and maintenance of nurseries, yield trials, and breeders seed production; greenhouse activities include plant propagation, multiple pest resistance screens, and crossing of plants.

• Manage labor and resources.
  
• Coordinate activities with other breeding programs and research stations. Ensure that projects are completed in a timely manner.
  
• Work with Farm manager on rotation of farm plots including but not limited to planting cultural practices, termination of plots (nurseries, yield trials, seed increases.
  
• Work with assistant breeders on nursery notes, plant selections, pest screens.
  
• Coordinate with Farm Manager and Assistant Breeder: Station budget, maintenance of facilities and equipment, procurement of supplies.
  

Data Management: Collect, manage, and curate data.

• Familiarity with scientific principles: experimental design and statistical analysis.
  

• Microsoft Office Products (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, SharePoint, etc.)
  
• Relational database experience a plus
  
• Familiarity with electronic data collection: hardware and software
  
• Ability to summarize data and make insightful decisions
  

Industry & Business Standards: Maintain and champion industry and business standards regarding ETS (stewardship), QMS (quality), and EH&S (safety). Actively pursue growth opportunities and support development of new talent in the organization. Support Diversity and Inclusion and work in a team-oriented environment.

Marketing/Plot Tours/ Industry Networking: Support sales and Senior breeder with coordination of field days and plot tours. Lead development and presentation of tour content.

Required Experience/Knowledge:

• Master's degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Weed Science, Nematology, Entomology, or Plant Pathology or related field with 4 years of related work experience.
  
• Principles of Agricultural Research: Statistical analysis, Experimental design, conducting field and greenhouse experiments.
  
• Proficient computer skills with an emphasis in Microsoft Office Excel, Word, and Outlook.
  
• Detail oriented, self-starter, ability to multi-task and prioritize, and strong organizational skills.
  
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently or collaboratively as a team member.
  
• Some extended hours or weekends and the ability to travel.
  
• Modest occasional lifting (

Preferred Qualifications and Competencies:

• PhD degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Weed Science, Nematology, Entomology, or Plant Pathology with 4-6 years of work experience.
  
• Technology and Data collection: familiarity with commercial breeding software.
  
• Experience leading a diverse team of individuals.
  
• Experience in greenhouse and/or small plot field research.
  

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About Land O'Lakes, Inc.

Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the business of food. We have been named a Top Workplace by Indeed and LinkedIn, and to the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list.

We provide a broad portfolio of benefits to keep you and your family at your best. Land O'Lakes is Where Your Future Takes Root.

Land O'Lakes, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) M/F/Vets/Disabled. The company maintains a drug-free workforce, including post-employment substance abuse testing pursuant to a Drug and Alcohol Policy.

Neither Land O'Lakes, nor its search firms, will ever contact you and ask for confidential information over the phone or in email. If you receive a call or email like this, please do not provide the information being requested.