R&D Engineer IV - Application Technology Lead

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

4d

About The Position

The Digital Agriculture Innovations Lab ( www.isudigitalag.org ) at Iowa State University (ISU) is seeking an R&D Engineer IV – Application Technology Lead to join our growing team. This position will provide leadership and technical direction for an advanced research and extension program focused on agricultural application technology systems. The role encompasses innovation and education in liquid and dry application technologies for crop production, including herbicide, fertilizer, and targeted spraying systems for both ground and aerial platforms. Additionally, the position will manage technical staff, oversee laboratory and field testing operations, and coordinate interdisciplinary projects that span engineering, agronomy, and biological sciences. The successful candidate will possess strong hands-on expertise in agricultural chemical delivery systems and demonstrate leadership in both research and applied extension activities. Digital Ag’s vision to be the premiere thought leader and partner in ag innovation is reinforced by our mission to innovate, educate, and outreach by bridging the gap between ideas and practical application, cultivating a culture of continuous learning, and elevating individuals and organizations to adopt advanced ag tech solutions for a more sustainable and efficient future. Strengthened by a team of service driven and abundant thinkers, passionate about agriculture and striving for excellence, we are committed to combining technological advancement with practical solutions, emphasizing Digital Ag’s role in driving positive impact in the agricultural industry. As an Application Technology Lead , you'll have the chance to deploy state-of-the-art technology in agriculture. Our team promotes a learning-based environment where continuous growth and development are highly encouraged. You'll engage with innovative projects that push the boundaries of agricultural engineering and application technology, offering excellent opportunities for professional advancement and making a significant impact on the future of digital agriculture. Specific project areas include drone technologies and ag product application systems (dry and liquid products, seed and chemical), among others. This work will focus on translating technology from early proof of concept (TRL 3) to a system prototype (TRL 7). Candidate will be hired as a R&D Engineer IV. This is an initial three-year term position, with expectation for renewal based on funding. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position. Position will remain open until filled.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 8 years related experience

Nice To Haves

• Experience in design and testing of agricultural application technology systems.
• Experience with defining requirements, project planning, feature prioritization, and milestone tracking for technical projects.
• Knowledge of basic biological principles associated with herbicide modes of action and fertilizer uptake within agricultural row crops.
• Demonstrated experience preparing technical documentation and delivering industry-focused presentations, as evidenced by reports, publications, presentation lists, or portfolio materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead research, testing, and evaluation of spray system components, including nozzles, pumps, flow control systems, and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) nozzle technologies.
• Direct experimental programs on targeted and variable-rate spraying, drone-based application systems, and precision delivery technologies.
• Oversee laboratory setup, calibration, and operation of test stands for spray characterization, droplet spectra, and targeted application.
• Ensure full compliance and data quality associated with test programs and outcomes.
• Integrate biological efficacy testing to link engineering parameters with agronomic outcomes.
• Supervise a team of engineers, research scientists, and graduate students supporting laboratory and field experiments.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and budgets to ensure accountability and program success.
• Prepare and oversee Statements of Work (SOWs) and research contracts with industry and institutional partners.
• Develop and oversee high impact educational programs, workshops, and technical bulletins related to agricultural spray technology.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

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