Seed Production Research Associate (Kabwe, Zambia, ZM)

At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where ,Health for all, Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. 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’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice.

Seed Production Research Associate

Job Purpose:

The Seed Production Research Associate is accountable for planning and executing the Breeding strategies to produce Corn seeds that will feed diverse pipelines across Africa countries aligned with scientists from P Design and P Development.

This position requires a strong knowledge in Corn seed production operations with a strong emphasis on Corn agronomy and for the experimental design of nursery field.

This role involves overseeing the daily operations within the Seed Production workflows, focusing on efficient resource planning, safety protocols, and quality assurance initiatives.

Key responsibilities include managing nursery activities such as field preparation, planting, irrigation, pollination, and harvesting to ensure optimal seed quality and operational excellence.

Contributions are also expected in coordination of seasonals workers during the seed processing and packaging activities.

This role plays a key role in maintaining consistent seed production quality and integrating innovative technologies into production processes. Active collaboration with both local, regional and global stakeholders.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities: 

Responsible for the experimental design and management of nurseries in the field and for the evaluation of experimental fields.

Oversee farm-related activities such as field preparation, irrigation, planting, harvesting, and maintenance as needed.

Responsible for planting and harvesting Corn experimental fields with a focus on corn agronomy.

Manage data collection equipment and train the team to carry out evaluations.

Responsible for data processing and analysis using company-provided software, generating graphical visualizations to support decision-making.

Support planning activities, including monitoring planting and harvest dates, site planting capacity, procurement of inputs and supplies, and workforce requirements for the activities.

Conduct critical analysis of the main deliverables for each season and contribute to identifying root causes related to key productivity deviations.

Manage supplies, stock, and supplier communications to ensure timely availability of consumable resources.

Supervise temporary workers to carry out the operations requested and ensure equipment, packaging and daily maintenance when needed.

Support the implementation of the innovation on seed production methods to enhance nursery quality and data collection practices.

Ensure compliance with HSE rules, monitoring and executing daily operational tasks.

Identify and report potential risks and opportunities observed during daily operations.

Maintain timely, complete, and accurate records of all processes and outcomes, ensuring alignment with established objectives.

Collaborate with EMEA SP&PD Hub as well as with the ACU Corn Units to ensure high-quality seed production and timely delivery to all stakeholders.

Engage with EMEA and Global Breeding teams to execute initiatives and align with global strategies.

Skills and Qualification:

B.Sc. in agriculture, agronomy, breeding, biology, chemistry, or related field and 03 year of significant experience in agricultural-related position

Fluent on English is required.

Strong understanding of crop production and farm practices, with experience in nursery and hybrid seed production is required.

Proficiency in MS Office and interest in software and data management, with the ability to quickly learn new programs such as Velocity (approximately 25% of the role will involve computer-based tasks).

Highly self-motivated, innovative, and proven track record in field activities.

Exceptional organizational and record-keeping skills, with a strong attention to detail to ensure accurate and efficient operations.

Ability to effectively prioritize and balance multiple tasks while meeting deadlines.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Capable of working independently as well as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and initiative.

It is desirable to have some knowledge/understanding around seed production techniques.

A strong desire for personal and professional growth at Bayer.

Valid driving license is required (Category B)

UAV pilot license with relevant experience in field data collection and data processing & analysis is an added advantage.

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we want to ensure persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact us at nicole.gien.ext@bayer.com

Location:

Zambia : Zambia : Kabwe

Division:

Crop Science

Reference Code:

892536

Bayer welcomes applications from all individuals, regardless of race, national origin, gender, age, physical characteristics, social origin, disability, union membership, religion, family status and pregnancy. We are committed to treating all applicants fairly and avoiding discrimination.

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