R&D Specialist III

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.

Bayer Crop Science is currently seeking a highly motivated Research and Development Specialist with the ability to work as a member of the Field-Testing Team within Plant Biotechnology. A successful applicant will contribute to the planning, coordination and execution of physiology experiments sponsored by both early and advanced phase projects.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Manage a broad range of operations including seeding, staging plant development, data collection, and harvest operations;
• Supervise and train temporary employees;
• Coordinate and communicate with Project Teams and other research sites to ensure efficient and high quality execution of crop physiology experiments;
• Contribute as a key member of project teams to rationalize and plan experiments;
• Work closely with Data Team to ensure accurate and timely delivery of data;
• Contribute to quality control of data;
• Utilize specialized research equipment related to Crop Physiology experimentation;
• Ensure that activities comply with Safety and Compliance standards;
• Position entails driving a company vehicle (pooled or assigned to the individual).

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree OR knowledge of bachelor’s degree completed by December 2026 in Crop Physiology, Agronomy, Plant Science, Biology or related fields;
• Field based research experience;
• Valid Driver’s License;
• Ability to carry out field-based research during the peak periods such as planting, flowering and harvest seasons;
• Familiarity with row-crop production and farm equipment operation;
• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to work effectively in a team-based environment;
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both written and oral;
• High level of agility in balancing and prioritize activities and resources;
• Strong computer skills related to data acquisition, organization, and data analysis;
• Proficiency in MS Excel, database systems, MS Word;
• Limited overnight travel, evening and weekend availability during peak periods;
• UAV pilot license or willingness to obtain;
• Illinois pesticide license or willingness to obtain.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to safely lift 50lbs;
• Work in conditions that require sitting, standing, walking for extended periods;
• Ability to work in high and low temperatures in a field setting;
• Capable of working long hours, primarily during the peak busy field season.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Crop Physiology, Agronomy, Plant Science, Biology or related fields with 4+ years’ experience or MS degree in Crop Physiology, Agronomy, Plant Science, Biology or related fields with 1+ years’ experience;
• Research experience with crop physiology or breeding experimentation;
• Experience with remote sensing/imaging and automated phenotyping;
• Expertise with technical instrumentation and/or engineering;
• Good working knowledge of statistics and experimental design.

Compensation: Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $68,240.00 and $102,360.00. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Additional benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc.