Lead Seed Agronomist

McCain Foods USA • Plover, WI

2d • $81,600 - $108,900 • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Seed Agronomist is responsible for assisting in buiilding argonomic strategies to drive quality improvements for our seeed and process growers. This role works closely with regional seed growers, McCain internal stakeholders, and research organizations to enhance seed quality, support new variety adoption, and advance regenerative agriculture practices across McCain’s proprietary potato varieties.\ Ideal candidates will have natural leadership talent with the ability to leverage seed potato production knowledge into proven results for McCain’s growers. The Lead Seed Agronomist position will be based in Plover, Wisconsin, and will report directly to the Seed Agronomy and Variety Research Manager

Requirements

• Strong, hands-on experience in full-cycle seed potato production, including storage.
• Proven ability to build trust and communicate effectively with grower partners.
• Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science (Master’s degree preferred).
• Strong soft skills, capable of leading people and projects with accountability.
• Strong analytical capabilities, including extensive knowledge using modern technology and applications for the collection, analysia nd interpretation of agronomic data.
• Excellent time management and prioritization skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, safety mindset, and growth-oriented approach.
• Ability to travel cross-border throughout North America (up to 50%).
• Valid driver’s license.
• Professional Agrologist Certification (or ability to obtain).
• Certified McCain Agronomist (CMA) certification required within two years of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Potato Production and Extension Management Develop and enact regional agronomy plans (agronomy, regenerative agriculture, and storage) to improve and secure seed potato supply in assigned regions.
• Lead potato seed research projects and seed grower extension of research results.
• Develop innovative methods to monitor and manage seed crop performance in-field and storage.
• Use modern technological methods to develop prescriptive models which guide McCain’s seed growers in producing high-quality seed.
• Drive grower engagement in developing regenerative agricultural practices in their operations aimed at improving long-term production stability and profitability.
• Develop Crop Improvement Plans aimed at improving yield and maintaining quality in storage through focused extension support.
• Maintain accountability of plans to targeted objectives.
• Maintain regional seed agronomy 3rd party relationships (industry and academic) ensuring McCain is at the forefront of the latest agronomic and technical solutions.
• Establish and maintain quality standards for data on winter grow-out and post-harvest evaluations.
• Support McCain Seed Operations team with agronomic analytics to guide variety and volume placement among seed growers.
• Champion safe operations and behaviors in work every day with McCain employees and with our growers.
• Professional Development Engage in continuous learning opportunities to develop skills and knowledge of potato production.
• Be an engaged and energetic team member supporting fellow Agriculture team members and company objectives.
• Be the face of McCain Agriculture: Represent McCain Foods as a leader in the potato industry.

Benefits

• Employees are eligible for the following benefits: health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription drug), retirement savings benefits, and leave support including medical, family and bereavement.
• Well-being programs include vacation and holidays, company-supported volunteering time, and mental health resources.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees