Operations Associate II

At Bayer we're visionaries, driven to solve the world's toughest challenges and striving for a world where 'Health for all Hunger for none' is no longer a dream, but a real possibility.

The Operations Associate II is responsible for executing daily operations that support North America Plant Breeding Research and Development efforts while serving as a key member of the site's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

Key Responsibilities:

Greenhouse Operations & Research Support

• Execute daily greenhouse and research operations in support of breeding and R&D objectives;
• Organize and execute research protocols and operational plans aligned with site priorities;
• Support planting, irrigation, crop protection, land preparation, harvest, and other production activities as needed;
• Operate research and greenhouse equipment while ensuring safe and efficient utilization;
• Maintain accurate records, notes, and operational data within enterprise systems and greenhouse control platforms;
• Support implementation of innovative technologies, tools, and methodologies that improve operational efficiency and research outcomes.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Support all components of the site IPM program under the guidance of the IPM Guide;
• Conduct routine greenhouse scouting and monitoring of pest and disease pressures;
• Collect and maintain accurate scouting records and agronomic observations;
• Safely prepare, mix, load, and apply pesticides according to prescribed programs;
• Perform spray spot treatments and other crop protection activities as required.
• Ensure timely communication and documentation of pesticide applications in accordance with regulatory and internal standards;
• Maintain pesticide inventories, storage areas, and waste management processes;
• Adhere to all integrated pest management protocols and procedures.

Equipment, Operation & Maintenance

• Operate pesticide application equipment, greenhouse automation systems, and other operational machinery;
• Perform basic troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and mechanical repairs on greenhouse equipment and operating systems;
• Support operational reliability initiatives through proactive maintenance and system monitoring;
• Utilize digital technologies and operational software platforms to support decision making and workflow execution.

Safety, Compliance & Quality

• Maintain compliance with all Bayer HSE, QA/QC, OSHA, WPS, RCRA, FIFRA, state, and federal regulatory requirements;
• Participate in and support safety inspections, audits, and compliance programs.
• Complete and support required SOP, equipment operation, safety, and compliance training programs;
• Ensure work is performed in a manner that supports site quality metrics, operational efficiency, and cost effectiveness;
• Promote a culture of safety, stewardship, and continuous improvement across all operations.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Build strong working relationships across Greenhouse Operations, Breeding, Agronomy, Field Operations, Site Leadership, and IPM teams;
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to achieve operational and research objectives;
• Train and mentor team members and seasonal employees on operational procedures, equipment operation, and safety practices;
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and actively contribute to innovation initiatives;
• Support project execution and coordinate activities to ensure successful delivery of operational goals.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED;
• Prior work-related experience in agriculture, supply chain, manufacturing;
• Arizona Department of Agriculture Private Pesticide Applicator License, or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire;
• Ability to work extended hours during peak operational seasons;
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English;
• Proficiency with computers, mobile devices, Microsoft Office applications, and data management systems;
• Ability to prioritize work and operate effectively with limited supervision;
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully within a diverse team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree. Preferred disciplines: Agriculture, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Business, Engineering;
• With Bachelor's degree, 3+ years' work-related experience in agriculture, supply chain, manufacturing and, in lieu of degree, 6+ years' work-related experience in agriculture, supply chain, manufacturing;
• Experience with greenhouse operations, crop production, or agricultural research environments;
• Knowledge of pesticide regulations including WPS, RCRA, and FIFRA;
• Experience with greenhouse automation systems, precision agriculture technologies, and data collection platforms;
• Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills;
• Demonstrated success implementing continuous improvement initiatives;
• Experience working on collaborative cross-functional project teams.

Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $61,680.00 - $92,520.00. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Additional benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc.