Research Associate 2

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta's R&D team is seeking a Research Associate 2 in Salinas, Puerto Rico. This role will support continuous nursery operations for corn and soybean by developing integrated pest management strategies, overseeing pesticide selection and application, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with company, local, and federal regulations.

Responsible for executing and managing diverse operational tasks in agricultural research, with a focus on operations, yield trials, nursery operations, and/or agronomy in seed production across multiple crops.  Performs role responsibilities with weekly supervision. 

Accountabilities:

• Execute daily operational activities within functional areas such as operations, trialing, agronomy, or nursery operations. 
• Perform data collection and reporting, inventory management, field activities, accurate data and/or observations from trials and nursery plots, plant care, machine operation and/or maintenance, and perform standard processes and protocols.  Update records and documentation and present performance metrics to management. 
• Implement compliance in areas that may include industry regulations, internal policies, HSE, EPA and WPS, equipment handling, quality standards, and best practices in agricultural research and operations. 
• Train and mentor junior team members and seasonal staff in operational and/or agronomic processes, equipment handling, required protocols and/or data collection. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, improve communication, and ensure project success. 
• Identify and implement process improvements and optimization strategies to enhance efficiency and productivity. 
• May monitor and maintain greenhouse environments, including plant care, pest management, and equipment operation. 

Required:

• Associate's degree in Agriculture, Operations Management, or related field or 2+ years of relevant experience.  
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to off-site facilities/ field locations as required. 
• Ability to effectively work in outdoor field environment, greenhouse or controlled laboratory environments 
• Ability to lift 50 pounds 
• Ability to perform manual labor tasks, such as bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods  
• Ability to obtain necessary license or certification 
• Ability to work flexibly, including weekends or different shifts when required 

Desired:

• Demonstrated experience in agricultural operations, process improvement, and data collection. 
• Strong understanding of agriculture, agronomy practices, and field trial operations. 
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to train and lead others. 
• Experience operating, maintaining, and performing minor repairs on field and plot equipment. 
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation of research results. 
• Familiarity with greenhouse or indoor growing systems (preferred). 
• Problem-solving skills and ability to identify root causes and apply corrective actions. 

What We Offer:

• A culture that celebrates diversity & inclusion, promotes professional development, and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members. Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.

Syngenta has been ranked as a top employer by Science Journal. Learn more about our team and our mission here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVCN_51GbNI

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

WL: 2B

#LI-ONSITE