Research Associate

Intermediate Research PositionIntermediate level position in the Research Department which we are seeking someone with some basic agriculture and field research knowledge. The main responsibility for this job will be conducting mini-strip and replicated testing as well as participating in other facets of Beck’s Research Department.As a member of the Beck’s Family of employees, all full-time employees are eligible for a generous benefits package:Health benefits including two medical plan options and company HSA contributions, dental, vision, employer paid life/AD&D for you and your dependents, disability insurance, and access to an onsite Nurse Practitioner401k plan match & company sponsored pension plan and access to a Financial Advisor to help you manage your retirement savingsPaid time off, Paid Holidays, Wellness Programs, & Corporate DiscountsCompany Christmas Party, Free Lunch, & Much MoreResponsibilitiesCoordinate plot locations and logistics with plot cooperatorsMeasuring and setting flagsWorking with cooperators to ensure proper seedbed preparation, fertility program and weed controlSeed PreparationPrepare seed for mini-strip and replicated testingPlanting of mini-strip and replicated plotsTransporting planting equipment to outlying locationsEnsuring plots are planted as directed by the Testing Site LeadData CollectionStand counts, early vigor, and plot ratingsFlowering dataPhysical characteristics (Plant and ear heights, etc)Disease evaluation and agronomic notesPlot MaintenanceWork with cooperators to ensure plots are maintained to Beck’s Hybrids’ standardsApply fertilizer, herbicide, and insecticide as neededPlot HarvestTransport harvest equipment to outlying locationsCollect fall agronomic notes (stability, plant integrity, etc)Conduct harvest of mini-strip and replicated plotsResearch Equipment MaintenanceEnsure machinery is maintained to Beck’s Hybrids’ standards to minimize downtimeDiagnose and make repairs as neededData ReportingSome duties may include reporting notes, harvest data, and preparation of yield reports for Beck’s Product Development StaffWarehousing/distributionInventory incoming shipmentsOrganize and stage outgoing shipmentsLoad/unload trucks as neededPerform seed deliveries as neededAid in isolated corn block, nursery, and winter nursery workSupervise full time employees, part time employees, and interns that report to the Research Associates as neededWork in other areas of Beck’s Hybrids’ operations as directed by the Testing Site Lead to ensure efficient site operations.Job RequirementsEducation and training:Minimum of high school diploma or GED equivalent, advanced degree preferredClass A CDL or the ability to obtainPesticide applicator license or the ability to obtainMust possess and maintain valid driver’s license and insurable driving record as determined by Beck’s automobile insurance policyTechnical knowledge:Excellent verbal and written communication skillsPossess strong agronomic and mechanical skillsPossess positive attitudeAbility to establish priorities, work independently, work as a team member, and proceed with objectives without supervision.Skill to use personal computer and various software packagesPhysical demands:Ability to pass DOT physical examination and obtain Medical Examiner’s Certificate is requiredOvernight travel is requiredMust be able to lift up to 70 pounds unassistedExperience:Field Research and/or Agriculture experience preferred** In an effort to provide a safer, drug-free workplace for employees, all full-time applicants to whom offers of employment are made must submit to a drug test and background check, subject to applicable local, state, or federal laws or regulations. Employment at Beck's is contingent upon passing these pre-employment screenings.