Director of Agricultural Systems Research

For more than 20 years, Threemile Canyon Farms has responsibly provided for the nutritional needs of a growing population through our sustainable dairy and farming operations. While we are proud of our contributions, we know that what sets us apart is not just what we do, but how we do it.

We were early innovators in building a "closed loop" system of sustainable farming, which is made possible by our decision to bring together crop farming and dairy production. These are highly complementary pursuits – particularly when it comes to recycling waste. We put organic waste back into the soil, which not only minimizes the amount of waste we produce but also helps keep our crops healthy. With more than 39,500 acres of irrigated farmland, we understand that our commitment to responsible farming is important to us as well as our community.

Essential Functions:

• Utilize statistical methods to analyze collected data, identify trends and draw conclusions on crop production practices (irrigation scheduling, fertility, equipment utilization, technology, pest management) to improve crop performance and sustainability.
• Develop and apply computer models to simulate complex agricultural systems and predict potential impacts of production practices.
• Analyze new and emerging technologies and equipment that may be used to improve crop performance, reduce inputs and improve sustainability.
• Design, implement, collect data, and monitor innovative agricultural projects and field trials in collaboration with team members, customers, industry and university personnel and prepare final analysis reports using statistical methods.
• Work closely with Directors and Accounting teams to assist in setting business goals, process improvement opportunities, quantify research results and identify practical applications of research findings.
• Work with data engineers and scientists to prepare existing data for storage and analysis. Assist in establishing new data gathering and analysis techniques within the organization.
• Stay up to date with industry developments, technology and best practices through ongoing professional development and research.
• Be a self-starter; ability to work independently as well as with other team members and management
• Attend required company meetings and training and participate in constructive discussion
• Follow all safety rules and regulations while performing work assignments and adhere to all policies and procedures as specified in company manuals and as directed in the employee handbook
• Conduct self in the presence of customers and community so as to present a professional image of Threemile Canyon Farms
• Proactively seek and participate in available company-sponsored training, in an effort to develop and advance knowledge base and skill set
• Maintain a positive and professional working relationship with peers, management, and support resources, with a constant commitment to teamwork and exemplary customer service
• Perform all other duties as assigned by management in a professional and efficient manner

Secondary Functions:

• Assist with budgeting process.
• Analyze production/sales contracts and make suggestions to maximize returns
• Assist IT Department in data warehousing, collection, organization, and software solution decisions.
• Collaborate with peers across the farm, dairy and other segments of the business on related projects to optimize the farm and dairy.

Scope and Accountability:

• Incumbent's decisions and actions may strongly impact the company's revenue and operations.
• Decisions and actions may have an impact on reputation, and/or customer satisfaction.
• Incumbent makes recommendations, gives direction to others, and performs work independently or with moderate supervision.
• Work under established guidelines and controls, including Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Environmental Protection Agency/Worker Protection Program (EPA/WPS).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, or another Ag Related field. Master’s degree or higher strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical and technology background.
• 5 years’ previous agricultural experience.
• Advanced knowledge of cropping systems, practices and precision agriculture.
• Hands on experience with conducting field experiments, data collection and managing research plots.
• Obtain Oregon Private Pesticide Applicators license. CCA preferred.
• Strong presentation and organizational skills.
• System knowledge should include solid proficiency with Excel, Power BI and other Microsoft Office products. SQL Database, statistical analysis software, GIS, and relevant modeling software.
• General knowledge of accounting processes (Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, General Ledger).
• Able to work alone, remotely or in a team environment.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Candidate must have valid work authorization and be able to work in the U.S. without company sponsorship.

Work Environment:

• Work is split between indoor using a range of IT systems and outdoors during the growing season with some exposure to extreme weather conditions.
• Exposure to poisonous chemicals through the application of pesticides.
• Stand, walk, bend, stretch, and reach with arms for up to 10 hours.
• Lift up to 80 pounds.
• Some overtime required. Ability to work weekends as needed. Some travel required.
• Stand, sit, and work on computers for up to 10 hours.