Lead Seed Agronomist

'' • Plover, IA

33d • $81,600 - $108,900

About The Position

The Lead Seed Agronomist is responsible for assisting in building agronomic strategies to drive quality improvements for our seed growers. The incumbent will work with regional seed growers, McCain internal stakeholders and research organizations to monitor and drive seed quality improvements with McCain 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 may be based in one of the following McCain regions: Easton, Maine or Plover, Wisconsin reporting directly to the Seed Agronomy and Variety Research Manager.

Requirements

• Emphasis on strong practical experience in full cycle/generation seed potato production is critical, including storage.
• Must have a strong ability to connect and communicate with McCain’s grower partners.
• A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural science. Master’s degree in related emphasis of study preferred.
• Must have strong soft skills, capable of influencing people and leading projects effectively.
• Strong analytical capabilities, including extensive knowledge using modern technologies and applications for the collection, analysis, and interpretation of agronomic data.
• Must be able to keep self and others on track with objectives; time management and prioritization are key skills.
• This position is most suited to an individual who demonstrates strong leadership skills and has the desire and ability to contribute and grow within the McCain Foods North America organization.
• A strong bias towards workplace safety both for McCain employees and our grower partners.
• Ability to travel across the border throughout North America (up to 50% travel)
• Valid driver’s license.
• Professional Agrologist Certification (or ability to obtain).
• Certified McCain Agronomist (CMA) certification required within two years of hire.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enact regional agronomy plans (field and storage) to improve and secure seed potato supply in assigned regions.
• Lead potato seed research projects and seed grower extension
• Develop innovative methods to monitor and manage seed crop performance in-field and storage
• Use modern technological methods to develop recommendations which guide McCain’s growers in producing high-quality seed
• Drive grower engagement in developing holistic agricultural practices in their operations aimed at improving long-term production stability and profitability.
• Develop crop 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
• 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