Field Associate II - Harrisburg, SD

Field Associate II (Harrisburg, South Dakota)

At Bayer, we're visionaries driven to solve the world's toughest challenges and striving for a world where our inclusive vision, health for all...hunger for none, is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We're pioneering technology and digitalization, working with cutting edge science, technology, and equipment paving the way for us to achieve the unimaginable like innovating in agriculture and empowering farmers, helping our planet to thrive. Through a diverse and inclusive team, we're doing it with energy, curiosity, and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities, and redefining 'impossible'.

Our Field Associate II is paramount in our ability to make this vision a reality.

Your Tasks and Responsibilities

The Field Associate II is a field-facing role responsible for contributing to an R&D Field Trial program in crops such as corn, soybean, wheat, cotton, canola, and camelina, depending on the region. Primary responsibilities of the Field Associate II role:

• Coordinate with growers on leased land space
• Assist with acquiring and supervising local staffing during in-season activities
• Assist with conducting in-season research activities such as phenotyping, study management, and data analytics review as part of overseeing and executing research trials that feed the R&D pipeline
• Partner with other Field Associates on site as well as other cross site functions on initiatives to improve data quality, standard operating procedures, or quality/compliance actions

The primary responsibilities of this role, Field Associate II (Harrisburg, South Dakota) are:

• Ensure safe and efficient operation of the research program in alignment with Bayer's HSE (Health Safety & Environment), Quality, Compliance and Stewardship requirements, and Business Code of Conduct and Ethics Standards
• Collaborate with project team members to deliver detailed experimental protocols that enable advancement decisions by our scientists and product placement decisions for our customers
• Use equipment like tractors and specialized planters, modified commercial harvesters, commercial drones, and other technologies and digital tools to collect, analyze, and deliver data on various agronomic traits in a timely manner throughout the growing season. Leverage knowledge of internal operations to work with internal partners on cutting edge innovation and proof of concept projects focused on improving tools and processes
• Self-motivate, problem solve, and make decisions with respect to time, prioritization, and project management
• Build and leverage networks across diverse teams and functions, as well as establishing and maintain partnerships in the local community, including but not limited to local leaders, influencers, and growers
• Supervise and direct third-party labor or seasonal staff to achieve trial and business objectives
• Communicate across teams and leaders, with the ability to be agile, open to change, and engaged in continuous learning
• Partner with manager on a targeted business and personal development goal plan that aligns with Bayer's Dynamic Shared Ownership values, leverage opportunities and empower the innovative and digitally advanced environment to grow in your career and impact the Crop Science business
• Travel up to 15% of the time particularly during peak seasons
• Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons (including non-traditional day-time hours with the potential for overnight travel)
• This position requires the ability to drive a company vehicle. This may include driving greater than 5,000 business miles annually in a company supplied (pool) vehicle OR being expected to frequently drive a pool vehicle as part of your job duties regardless of mileage
• Position may require driving for the company that will fall under region-specific jurisdictions (US DOT/FMCSA) and may require a specialized license, enabling the hauling of trailers, products, supplies or equipment in a safe manner

Required Qualifications

Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:

• Bachelor's degree OR Knowledge of BS/BA degree completed by September 2026
• Strong technical aptitude and ability to work with connected systems and data management
• Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative team-based environment
• Ability to learn and operate research agriculture equipment, including precision agriculture technology
• Knowledge or ability to learn region-specific crop production and farming practices
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Valid driver's license
• DOT medical card or the ability to obtain one through successfully completing and passing a DOT physical
• Ability to obtain Pesticide Applicator's License
• Ability to obtain Drone Pilot's License (FAA part 107 Certification)

Physical Demands of required tasks:

• 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 of Science in agronomy, life sciences, engineering, computer science, or related field OR Master's Degree; Experience in agricultural research, seed technology industry or plant breeding; Knowledge of basic statistical analysis and experimental design principles; Mechanical and IT aptitude; Experience with precision agriculture hardware and software; History of implementing continuous improvements and innovation

Position located in Harrisburg, South Dakota. Domestic Relocation may be eligible Posting available until August 7, 2026. Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $58,498.40 - $87,747.60. Compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Other benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc. If selected for this role, the offer may vary based on market data/ranges, an applicant's skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors.