Production Research Manager Hybrid Wheat

KWS Cereals USA LLC is looking for a permanent full-time Production Research Manager with the start date in the first quarter of 2027! 

The Production Research Manager is responsible for the development and implementation of field production and seed conditioning research on a global scale for Hybrid Wheat. This role is responsible for continuously refining methodologies and technologies used to ensure the cost-effective production of high-quality hybrid seed. This role will be an integral part of the Production Team, planning and executing field and lab trials, assessing optimal environmental and agronomic requirements, managing internal and external trial providers, while maintaining budgetary targets. Additionally, the Production Research Manager will provide training and consultation to stakeholders involved in breeding and seed production. 

Key responsibilities:

Lead Field Trials for Hybrid Seed Production 

• Plan, coordinate, and execute field trials for both foundation and commercial hybrid seed production.
• Design experiments to evaluate and optimize environmental requirements and agronomic practices for hybrid seed production.

Develop and Refine Production Methodologies 

• Continuously assess and refine methodologies and technologies to ensure cost-effective and high-quality hybrid seed production.
• Implement new technologies and practices based on trial outcomes and industry advancements.

Manage Stakeholder Relationships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders involved in seed production, including growers, trial providers, and conditioning partners.
• Provide training, consulting, and technical support to stakeholders to ensure alignment with production standards and goals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external partners regarding hybrid production research.

Collaborate with International Teams

• Work closely with an international production research team to share knowledge, align strategies, and coordinate global research initiatives.
• Participate in cross-regional projects and contribute to the development of global best practices for hybrid cereal production.

Data Analysis and Reporting 

• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from field trials and production activities.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for internal teams, management, and external stakeholders.

Budget and Resource Management 

• Develop, manage, and monitor the research budget, ensuring all activities are aligned with cost targets and financial objectives.
• Track expenditures, forecast resource needs, and report on budget performance to leadership.

Required Qualifications:

• Experienced research expert with a focus on in-field trials and hybrid crop production
• Technical understanding of the production of small grains
• Good teamwork, communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required
• Ability to work outdoors
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• BA/BS in Agriculture or related field

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS or PhD in Agriculture or related field
• Experience with statistical or data analysis software
• 5+ years of appropriate work experience

We Offer:

• A salary between $85,000 to $95,000. This role is also eligible for an annual bonus. This reflects a reasonable estimate of the targeted base salary for this role. Based on factors such as geographic location and candidate qualifications, actual base pay is determined when an employment offer is made
• Health, dental, vision benefits
• Pension plan
• 401k with match
• Flexible paid-time-off (PTO)
• Professional training and development opportunities

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

This position is home office-based with an expectation of 30% travel.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

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. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and move objects up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.