Research Associate (Louisville, IL)

The Research Associate is primarily responsible for executing and overseeing research activities in a multidisciplinary applied swine science program. This role is responsible for conducting research trials and gathering data within hog production environments including traveling to large-scale Commercial Research Centers Sow Farms and Processing Plants. Adhering to scientific standards for research execution set forth in study protocols the Research Associate is accountable for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of all research data collected. The Research Associate delivers measurable value to the Company through high-quality research and adherence to best-in-class scientific standards. As a direct representative of The Maschhoffs this role will act professionally and in a way that upholds the Companys Purpose and Core Values.

Duties & Functions:
Foster partnership with both farm and plant personnel to ensure research trials are completed timely and within defined constraints
Balance the needs of the research program farms and processing plants allowing priorities to shift as needed
Conduct research in various hog production environments and at various stages of life cycle; provide updates on operational and research learnings and performance to Research and Development leadership
Collaborate with Research and Development leadership to design study protocols; adhere to established processes and protocols while executing research tasks
Collect live animal data at hog barns and carcass data at hog processing plants using multiple data gathering methods in support of the Companys strategic objectives
Drive biological pig performance by executing on all standard operating procedures ensuring the animal achieves maximum biological potential for growth
Serve as principal investigator on research projects by acting as the main point of contact writing study protocols making critical decisions throughout the study and assisting with the final write up of results and impact study
Lead the execution of commercial genetic testing with the Companys genetic partners
Capture and validate data and results of projects at Processing Plants
Responsible for data integrity through validation of equipment and execution of study protocols
Conduct work in a manner that safeguards colleagues and animals regardless of work location
Provide on farm support in animal care and maintenance tasks as needed

Position Qualifications:
Minimum Education: Bachelors degree or equivalent work experience is required
Major(s): Animal Science Agricultural Business or a related field
Minimum Years of Experience: 4 years of experience; education accepted in lieu of experience

Skills & Abilities:
Knowledge of:
Animal biology with an emphasis on swine production management practices
Microsoft Office
Scientific research methods and standards
Basic statistics
Data collection methodology

Skilled in:
Verbal and written communication
Budget and time management
Swine/animal husbandry
Critical thinking and informed decision making

Ability to:
Work with internal and external partners in a professional courteous manner
Work both independently and in a team environment to accomplish goals
Be creative and champion change while adhering to research standards
Maintain confidentiality
Accept coaching from peers and managers
Execute research protocols in accordance with The Maschhoffs Research and Development quality standards

Compensation and Benefits:

Targeted pay range of $ USD per year depending on experience and qualifications.

The Maschhoffs offers full-time regular employees a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Your choice between a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan and a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) plan.
• Two options for dental coverage both of which cover three main types of expenses and cover preventative care at 100%.
• Group rate vision benefits.
• Complimentary Basic Life Insurance as well as voluntary employee spouse and child life insurance policies.
• Short Term and Long Term Disability coverage at no cost to the employee.
• A traditional pre-tax 401(k) plan as well as a Roth 40(k) plan. The Company matches the first 4% of employee contributions which is immediately vested.
• A generous paid time off program including a life event day and volunteer day each year for full time employees.
• Participation in a Company Short Term Incentive Plan (STI) where payments are dependent upon several company factors/metrics.

Physical Demands:
Climbing: Less than 20%
Crawling/Stooping: Less than 20%
Hearing: 41% - 70%
Heavy Lifting: Less than 20% Up to 60 Lbs
Manual Dexterity: Less than 20%
Pushing/Pulling: Less than 20%
Speaking: 41% - 70%
Standing: 20% - 40%
Visual: Over 70%
Walking: Less than 20%

Required Experience:

IC