Agronomy Manager, Research ($78,000-$85,000/yr)

• Managing WCI’s involvement in the Regional Variety Trials (RVTs) across Alberta, including trial coordination, data analysis, and budget preparation
• Advising on and implementing best agronomic practices for plant breeding and small plot research to enhance efficiency and land utilization
• Coordinating the agronomic aspects of new research projects, including proposal development and reporting to third-party funding agencies, in collaboration with WCI breeders and scientists in biotechnology, pathology, and quality
• Liaising with crop commissions, Area Research Associations, post-secondary institutions, plant breeding centers, and industry representatives to foster collaboration
• Recommending program improvements in agronomy and extension for WCI
• Contributing to research extension through field days, publications, interviews, and speaking engagements
• Leading investigations into the impacts of genotype, environment, and management (GxExM) interactions for WCI varieties and breeding lines
• Coaching teams on trial protocols to ensure successful execution and compliance
• Overseeing trial inspections and ensuring high-quality data collection throughout
• Collaborating with WCI breeders and scientists in biotechnology, pathology, and quality to enhance research outcomes
• Distributing and publishing trial data to relevant stakeholders for further research and development
• Monitoring the overall performance of WCI trials and providing recommendations for improvement

To qualify, you will have a Master’s degree in Agriculture and/or Plant Science, ideally with 10+ years in farming or agronomic consulting work. A combination of education, research background, and hands-on experience may be considered.

The following are also required:

• A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Undergo a criminal record check
• Hold or ability to obtain a First Aid training certificate
• Willingness and ability to take part in hands-on physical tasks

The following skills and experience will be strong attributes:

• Practical experience in small plot research and variety development
• Comprehensive knowledge of agronomy, crop rotations, soil science, and sustainable agriculture practices in Canada
• Demonstrated ability to identify and solve agronomic challenges through practical solutions
• Solid understanding of agricultural regulations and compliance related to crop production and soil management
• Research expertise in crop yield and managing pest, disease, and climate resistance
• Familiarity with Genovix software, genomics tools, and the Microsoft Suite
• Proven experience mentoring and managing technical teams
• Excellent communication skills for clearly conveying complex agronomic concepts to diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency in operating field equipment such as tractors and hauling trailers (asset)
• Hold a Certified Crop Advisor certification (asset)

As our ideal candidate, you bring creativity, a collaborative mindset, and the initiative to drive innovation, all while keeping the bigger picture in focus to grow WCI’s Agronomy program. You are passionate about sustainable practices, willing to take calculated risks, and skilled at asking the right questions. Comfortable working closely with others, you also have the independence and self-sufficiency to manage your own projects effectively.

This is a dynamic leadership role that offers the opportunity to shape agronomic initiatives and collaborate across the agricultural industry. We are looking for someone who can combine practical expertise with innovative thinking, bringing fresh ideas and energy to help push Western Crop Innovations and Western Canada's agriculture industry forward. 

• Excellent health, vision and dental benefits package
• Relocation Assistance for the right candidate
• Travel reimbursement
• Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability
• 6% matching pension plan
• 22 days paid vacation
• Flexible hybrid work environment

If you're ready to invest your skills and reap the rewards, we invite you to apply today!