Corn Research Specialist | Nursery

Wyffels Hybrids•Geneseo, IL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you detail‑driven, hands‑on, and passionate about corn research and seed production? As a Corn Research Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in supporting corn nursery research operations by coordinating lab and nursery activities that ensure accuracy, organization, and efficiency from start to finish. This role offers a unique blend of technical lab work, field support, data management, and team leadership, making it ideal for someone who enjoys variety and takes pride in precision. In this position, you’ll prepare and manage research materials, support pollination and harvest activities, maintain equipment and data systems, and lead seasonal employees to deliver high‑quality results in a dynamic research environment. Working closely with breeding and research teams, you’ll help ensure nursery operations run safely, smoothly, and on schedule while continuously looking for ways to improve processes and outcomes.

Requirements

B.S. Degree in Agronomy or closely related field -or- High School Diploma and five years of experience in corn research nurseries and evaluation.
Knowledge of field crop production and field/research equipment.
Corn breeding and seed production methods and techniques.
Research plot and testing techniques used in hybrid evaluation.
Organizational and supervisory skills to effectively supervise seasonal employees and complete all necessary operations effectively.
Good verbal and written communication skills enabling interaction with co-workers, growers, cooperators, and customers.
General computer skills and knowledge of Windows-based programs, and motivation to learn new software and computer accessories.
Maintain security and confidentiality of information, demonstrating discretion and professionalism.
Maintain accurate records and efficient file management of inventory.

Nice To Haves

Preferred hands-on experience operating agricultural research equipment (e.g., tractors and planters) and supporting seed corn nursery field operations, including planting, spray treatments, pollination, and harvest activities.
Class A CDL commercial driver’s license.
Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and supervise the preparation of research materials and activities in the lab. Including seed preparation and processing, inventory, organization, packaging, field layout, and all associated manual and computer-generated lists, labels, maps, stakes, and books for nurseries, experimental production, and yield trials.
Supervise, instruct, train, motivate, and delegate responsibilities to seasonal employees. Interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) are essential and must be continually developed and cultivated.
Assist in pollination management, inventory management, packaging, seed processing, and hand harvesting as needed.
Organize and analyze data/information files and prepare required reports.
Maintain and service lab equipment. Schedule outside work and service as needed.
Promote and contribute to improving accuracy and efficiency within the department through research and development of new procedures and/or tools.
Effectively communicate with management and peers regarding the status of projects and work activities.
Organize and maintain Research Procedure and Protocols related to specific responsibilities.
Flexibility to work overtime when needed.
Knowledge and working experience with research databases (e.g., PRISM) to support corn research trials and data collection.
Ensure all safety policies, procedures, rules, and regulations are adhered to.