Agricultural Research Organization is seeking dedicated Research Associates to execute operational and testing activities at corn and soybean research sites across the USA. As a Research Associate, you’ll manage field trials, collect accurate data, maintain seed inventory, operate research equipment, supervise seasonal employees, and contribute to research program success. This hands-on position offers meaningful opportunity to advance agricultural science through rigorous field research supporting crop innovation and development.
About Agricultural Research Organization — Innovation Leadership
Research Focus: Corn and soybean field research and crop development programs
Program Scope: Multi-site field trials across multiple USA locations
Quality Commitment: Maintaining highest research data integrity and accuracy standards
Innovation Mission: Advancing agricultural science through rigorous field research
Team Culture: Collaborative, safety-focused research environment
Research Associate Role — Field Research Operations Focus
Research Scope: Executing operational and testing activities at research sites
Field Operations: Planning, implementing, and maintaining field trials
Data Management: Ensuring accurate data collection and inventory management
Equipment Operation: Safe operation of field research equipment and machinery
Research Associate Position Overview
The Research Associate position offers hands-on opportunity to support agricultural research programs through field operations and data collection. You’ll participate in all stages of crop research from seed packaging through harvest, maintain seed inventory systems, set up and execute field experiments, operate research equipment, supervise seasonal team members, and ensure data integrity and quality standards. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to work collaboratively, safety commitment, and willingness to work extended hours during growing seasons in varying weather conditions.
As a Research Associate, you’ll serve as essential contributor to research program success, supporting scientists and agronomists through meticulous field execution and record keeping. You’ll gain valuable experience in crop research methodologies, agricultural equipment operation, team supervision, and research quality standards. Your contributions directly impact research validity, crop innovation advancement, and development of improved agricultural varieties.
Why This Role Matters: As Research Associate in agricultural research, you support critical crop development advancing agricultural innovation, execute field research ensuring data accuracy, operate specialized agricultural equipment, manage research inventory and records, supervise seasonal team members, advance career in agricultural science, and contribute to developing improved crop varieties benefiting agriculture globally.
Key Responsibilities & Research Duties
Crop Production & Research Operations
- Participate in seed packaging and preparation activities
- Assist with timely planting operations in field trials
- Support crop pollination and flowering stage management
- Conduct routine crop scouting and observation activities
- Participate in harvest and crop evaluation activities
Field Trial Setup & Execution
- Support field experiment setup and site preparation
- Assist with trial layout and plot establishment
- Execute planting protocols and procedures
- Support timely harvest operations and activities
- Participate in field trial maintenance throughout season
Data Collection & Record Management
- Maintain accurate note-taking and field observations
- Record data accurately and consistently
- Support quality data collection and documentation
- Ensure proper record-keeping and archival
- Contribute to maintaining research data integrity
Seed Inventory & Stock Management
- Maintain accurate seed inventory systems
- Ensure proper storage of seed stocks
- Monitor seed viability and condition
- Support inventory tracking and documentation
- Assist with seed distribution and allocation
Agricultural Equipment Operation
- Operate field research planters safely and effectively
- Operate spraying equipment for crop treatment
- Operate combine harvesters and crop collection equipment
- Perform equipment maintenance and care
- Ensure safe equipment operation at all times
Seasonal Employee Supervision & Training
- Supervise seasonal employees in field operations
- Train seasonal staff on procedures and safety
- Ensure safe and efficient team operations
- Provide guidance and task direction to team
- Monitor team performance and productivity
Safety Standards & Compliance
- Adhere to company safety standards and protocols
- Promote safety culture and practices
- Follow safe procedures around agricultural equipment
- Maintain outdoor work safety and compliance
- Report safety concerns and incidents
Qualifications & Requirements
Educational Requirements
- Associate degree in Agronomy required
- Associate degree in related agricultural field
- Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy or Agriculture preferred and highly valued
- Bachelor’s degree in related agricultural science field
Professional Experience
- Prior experience in agricultural research operations
- Background in field operations and crop research
- Hands-on experience with crop management
- Experience with agricultural equipment operation
Skills & Abilities
- Strong ability to work collaboratively within teams
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Strong record-keeping and attention to detail
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
- Willingness to learn various software tools
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
Physical & Licensing Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 60 pounds regularly
- Valid driver’s license with clean MVR history
- Ability to travel 40 nights per year including occasional weekends
- Willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons
- Ability to work safely in outdoor environments
Compensation & Benefits Package
Salary & Compensation
- Approximate pay range in Illinois: $60,000 – $70,000 annually
- Performance-based incentives available
- Compensation commensurate with experience and education
Health & Insurance Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Company paid long-term and short-term disability insurance
- Company paid life insurance with optional supplemental
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Retirement & Financial Benefits
- 401(k) plan with company match (eligible 1st of month following hire)
- Financial security planning assistance
Time Off & Work-Life Balance
- Generous vacation time and paid holidays
- Volunteer Time Off for community involvement
- Paid parental leave
Professional Development & Wellness
- Tuition reimbursement for professional development
- Health club reimbursement and wellness support
- Ongoing training in research methodologies
About Agricultural Research Programs — Innovation Advancing Agriculture
Agricultural research organizations across the United States conduct critical corn and soybean field trials advancing crop development and agricultural innovation. These programs operate multiple research sites across various climates and soil conditions, executing rigorous field experiments supporting crop genetics and agronomic advancement. Research Associates play essential roles executing field operations, maintaining data integrity, and supporting scientists in developing improved crop varieties. The work directly contributes to agricultural productivity, food security, and sustainable farming practices benefiting farmers and agriculture globally.
Career Excellence in Agricultural Research: Build agricultural research career with leading crop research organization, gain hands-on experience in field research methodologies, work with advanced agricultural equipment and technology, support crop innovation advancing agriculture, develop expertise in research data collection, advance career in agricultural science, and contribute to developing improved crop varieties benefiting global agriculture.
Who Should Apply?
- Agronomy Graduates: With Associate or Bachelor’s degree
- Agricultural Research Professionals: With field operations background
- Crop Science Specialists: Seeking field research roles
- Field Operations Technicians: Ready for research environment
- Agriculture Students: Gaining practical research experience
- Equipment Operators: With agricultural machinery experience
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