Field Station Development Representative

Business/Function Overview

FMC provides innovative and cost-effective solutions to enhance crop yield and quality by controlling a broad spectrum of insects, weeds, and disease, as well as in non-agricultural markets for pest control.

FMC is a globally diverse organization that offers its employees exciting opportunities to work on challenging projects that are important to the achievement of our strategic objectives. Your education and professional experience are valued and applied from day one. Your success at completing key initiatives can result in a varied, progressive, and fulfilling career with FMC.

With a corporate culture of innovation, integrity, responsibility, and customer intimacy, we foster "The Right Chemistry" in everything we do. We are looking for people to join us in creating, developing, and improving our products, our processes, and our markets. If you are ready to make a difference every day, FMC is ready to talk to you!

As an important member of the US Field Development Team at FMC, the Field Station Development Representative (FSDR) manages and implements a field-testing program primarily at the FMC Midwest Research Station (MRS) located in Rochelle, IL, primarily focusing on row crops including soybeans, corn, and wheat. The MRS is a 169-acre research facility where Herbicides, Fungicides, Insecticides, and biologicals are tested each year. The FSDR works closely with the North America Product Development Team (NAPD) to conduct field research to support FMC pipeline and helps support the Commercial Team by executing field trials and implementing plot demonstrations. Work activities include early-stage field research with exciting novel chemistry and biologicals, venture qualification studies, commercial product development, data summarization and presentation, and hosting field tours alongside the NAPD and Commercial Teams. The FSDR reports directly to the US Field Development Manager.

Job Overview and Primary Responsibilities

• Field Testing and Field Work
  • Conduct high-confidence field tests of crop protection products (synthetic and biologicals) for biological efficacy and crop safety for discovery and commercialization projects. This includes-planning, design, layout, planting, treatment application, evaluation and agronomic management of research trials.
  • Collect field research data and enter in corporate database in a timely manner. Responsible for the data quality for all development trials conducted or managed.
  • Develop action plans and budgets that meet technical and operational objectives while managing time and priorities in an independent work environment.
  • Provide input and participate with marketing, sales and tech service as needed on market intelligence and business opportunities in local territory.
• Data Management and Communication
  • Summarize biological data and communicate results to support data-driven decision making
  • Facilitate strong working relationships with Product Development Managers (PDMs) and Technical Service Managers (TSMs), educating peers about field trial observations and results to prepare for product launches.
  • Assist with on-site plot tours for internal and external audiences showcasing FMC products.
  • Represent FMC and seek out new talent at industry events such as media summits, trade shows, and scientific society conferences.
• Field Station Operations
  • Hire and supervise crew of seasonal interns who assist with the operation of the farm and field research ensuring a diverse and inclusive mentoring environment
  • Oversee facilities operations in partnership with other FSDR, including offices, shop, lab, and grounds. Maintain or arrange service for all onsite tractors, sprayers, and other field equipment.
  • Ensure that all field station activities meet local, state, and Federal laws and regulations, and FMC safety standards including safe chemical storage, shipping, handling and application of EPA-approved and experimental agricultural products.

Minimum Requirements

• MS in Weed Science, Entomology, Plant Physiology, Plant Science, Agronomy or other agricultural/related science, PhD ideal.
• Have a basic knowledge of a farming operation including cultural practices around ground prep, equipment setup and operation, cultivation, irrigation, planting, spraying and fertilizing the crops grown at the station.

Qualifications

• 2 years' experience in discovery, development or commercialization of agricultural products preferred; may include experience as a research assistant during postgraduate studies. In lieu of the above, 5 years' experience in production agriculture is acceptable.
• Safety and Certifications
  • Working knowledge of disease, insect and weed biology and appropriate field-testing procedures with a high level of technical competency in one or more of these disciplines. Knowledge of agricultural cropping systems, pests, practices and products and basic farm machinery operation and maintenance skills.
  • State pesticide application license required. Possess or be working toward a Pest Control Advisors (PCA) License and/or Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) Certification and maintain certification through continuing education hours.
  • Commitment to safe driving practices, chemical handling, and use of equipment. Driver's License required.
  • Ability to work outside in hot and cold conditions. Ability to carry a 50 lb backpack sprayer on uneven ground.
• Computer & Data Skills
  • Experience in field plot technique and statistical analysis of data. Familiar with ARM, FieldPro or other data recording system. Good technical aptitude (proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications).
  • Capable of designing protocols and research projects.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills in English, bilingual skills are a plus.
• Work Ethic
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to independently manage time and priorities. Ability to get results by delivering on commitments, both independently and through sound interpersonal skills, teamwork, and collaboration.
  • Ability to communicate to a wide variety of internal and external audiences in a way that promotes understanding and builds relationships.

EEO Statement

At FMC, diversity and inclusion are in our DNA. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive - regardless of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, color, age, religion or religious creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. FMC also supports employee participation in company employee resource groups that celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our workforce by providing communities for employees to connect with each other and raise awareness throughout FMC.

FMC complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact our Talent Acquisition department at talentacquisition@fmc.com.