Agronomy Pesticide Group Lead Research Associate - Hawaii!

Have you thought about how to feed the fast growing world population? We have. 

And we are looking for top talent to join our team!

Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology.  The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market.  Sales in 2007 were approximately $9.2 billion.  Syngenta employs over 21,000 people in more than 90 countries.  Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York (SYT). 

Agronomy Pesticide Group Lead Research Associate – Kekaha, HI - 998

Role Purpose – 

In a highly team-oriented environment the Agronomy Research Associate will coordinate all pesticide activities. Working in conjunction with Agronomy Operation this will include effective planning and execution of pesticide applications, Worker Protection Standard compliance, Stewardship and regulatory compliance, maintenance of equipment and development of pesticide program to safely and reliably meet current and future crop care requirements. The Research Associate will train and supervise full time staff to provide effective and efficient field execution. The effectiveness of this position is measured by Nursery, Trait and Parent Seed groups meeting their timelines and returning target amounts of high quality seed, achieving across year reliability of seed increases and crosses, and maintaining budget efficiency.

Accountabilities – 

Develop and schedule pesticide applications to provide quality crop protection with minimal impact to environment. • Provide communication across group functions to ensure health and safety. • Equipment calibration, maintenance and repair. • Compliance to Federal and State laws regarding pesticides. • Maintain inventories and accurate records. • Contribute to SOP refinement, development. • Execute SOPs developed by Site Management Team. • Regular updates and written progress reports, timelines and needs communicated as requested by managers. • Continuous improvement through Quality Management • Communicate and solve staffing needs (assembling proper crew for necessary activities). • Develop and maintain productive working relationships with all Hawaii staff.

Knowledge, experience & capabilities –

Critical knowledge:

Thorough working knowledge of pesticides and safe application to row crops. • Working knowledge of different spray vessels i.e. self propelled, 3-point and their calibration methods. • Ability to conduct field diagnoses and perform troubleshooting to application equipment. • Good understanding of other agronomic/cultural practices (irrigation, tillage, IPM, planting). • Knowledge of and ability to use computer software for data management. E.g., Word, Excel, Access. • Knowledge of seed crop research, production and quality assurance practices.

Critical experience:

B.S. in agriculture or equivalent experience in tropical agricultural research preferred. • Knowledge of farm operations and agronomy necessary. • Ability to maintain/obtain a Private Applicator and CAT 10 Applicator's License. • The successful candidate will also demonstrate strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills. Strong computer skills are helpful. • The ability to function effectively as a team member and to perform detailed work is necessary. • The ideal candidate will also be flexible, adaptable and safety-oriented.

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities:

Ability to establish priorities and oversee multiple crews simultaneously at peak work periods. • Excellent leadership, team building and interpersonal skills, especially those required to successfully function as part of a cross-functional team. • Excellent analytical, organizational, planning and problem solving skills. • Ability to understand, communicate, supervise, and execute complex instructions. • Capacity to innovate in a focused and product-oriented manner.

Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.

Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at www.syngentacareers.com. EOE