Job Title: Fiels Research Assistant
Duration: 8 Months
Location: Johnston, IA, 50131
 
Phenotyping Specialist
You will be a key contributor to a wide range of activities at the Johnston Research Centre. This role plays an important part in supporting the Phenotyping/Field Trial functional team, along with overall multicrop and multifunctional responsibilities.
 
Responsibilities – What You’ll Do

• Participate as a multicrop and multifunction team member supporting SPD, Biotech, and other functional areas, including Corn, Soy, Wheat, and Cropping Systems.
• Operate research equipment for planting and harvesting activities.
• Scout fields with a focus on agronomic pests and diseases.
• Collaborate with team members to support and drive regional scouting teams.
• Communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders to understand agronomic and functional deadlines.
• Work across Johnston Research Center functions to support site activities and assigned research projects.
• Assist with research center projects and research seed production activities, including seed preparation for planting, winter nursery deadlines, and overall operational support.
• Support critical peak periods (April–May and September–October), which may require overtime and weekend work.
• Willingness to manage employees, interns, and assistants as needed.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.
• Provide shipping support before planting and after harvest.
• Support regulated trials (approximately 10%).

 
Qualifications

• Experience in Agronomy, Plant Breeding, or with a research seed company.
• Technologically savvy, with proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn new technologies and software; experience handling large data sets.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong interpersonal abilities.
• Results-driven mindset with strong initiative, problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and time management skills.
• Safety-oriented, with a commitment to safe work and risk management practices.
• Equipment-oriented, with the ability to learn and operate research combines, tractors, and planters.

 
Physical Requirements – What You Will Need

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work in varying environmental and ergonomic conditions, including field work.
• Flexibility to work overtime and weekends during seasonal peaks as required.
• Ability to stay overnight during peak work periods.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; CMV experience (pulling pickup bumper hitch/gooseneck trailers).

 
 
At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 19.85/daily.