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.

Field Research Scientist (Northwest, Iowa) 

Field Research Scientist (Northwest Iowa)

At Bayer, we re visionaries driven to solve the world s toughest challenges and striving for a world where our inclusive vision, health for all...hunger for none, is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We re pioneering technology and digitalization, working with cutting edge science, technology, and equipment paving the way for us to achieve the unimaginable like innovating in agriculture and empowering farmers, helping our planet to thrive. Through a diverse and inclusive team, 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 .  Our Field Research Scientists are paramount in our ability to make this vision a reality.

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Field Research Scientist role is a field facing role responsible for carrying out small plot field research activities in corn and soybeans based in Northwest Iowa (Spencer, IA). Primary responsibilities of the role are coordinating, negotiating, and contracting leased land for field research trials; acquiring local staffing for in-season activities; conducting research activities such as pre-season planning, planting, phenotyping, study management, harvest, and data analysis. All activities work together to facilitate trial execution that feeds the R&D pipeline. Additionally, the role will work with other remote Field Research Scientists andites on functional initiatives to improve data quality, standard operating procedures, or quality/compliance actions.

The primary responsibilities of this role, Field Research Scientist (Northwest, Iowa) are to: 

• Ensure safe and efficient operation of the research program in alignment with Bayer s HSE (Health Safety & Environment), Quality, Compliance and Stewardship requirements, and Business Code of Conduct and Ethics Standards;
• Collaborate with Field Testing peers, Product Development Scientists, Planners, and other stakeholders to deliver detailed experimental protocols that enable advancement decisions by our scientists and product placement decisions for our customers;
• Operate equipment such as tractors and specialized planters, modified commercial harvesters, commercial drones, and other technologies and digital tools to collect, analyze, and deliver data on various agronomic traits in a timely manner throughout the growing season.  Leverage knowledge of internal operations to work with internal partners on cutting edge innovation and proof of concept projects focused on improving tools and processes;
• Perform field selection, cooperator relations, site preparation, mapping/field design and maintenance of multiple field-testing locations; arrange contracted equipment hauling vendors as needed;
• Supervise and direct third-party labor or seasonal staff to achieve trial and business objectives;
• Be accountable for the performance of your growing area through self-motivation, problem solving, and decision making with respect to time, prioritization, and project management;
• Build and leverage networks across diverse teams and functions, with the ability to be agile, open to change, and engaged in continuous learning;
• Partner with manager on a targeted business and personal development goal plan that aligns with Bayer s Dynamic Shared Ownership behaviors, leverage development opportunities to grow in your career and impact the Crop Science business;
• Travel up to 15% of the time particularly during peak seasons;
• Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons (including non-traditional day-time hours with the potential of overnight travel);
• Position entails driving a company vehicle (pooled or assigned to the individual). This may include being required to drive greater than 5,000 business miles annually in a company supplied vehicle OR being expected to frequently drive a pooled car as part of your job duties regardless of mileage;
• Position may require driving for the company that will fall under region-specific jurisdictions (US DOT/FMCSA or Transport Canada) and may require a specialized license, enabling the hauling of trailers, product, supplies or equipment in a safe manner.

WHO YOU ARE

Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor s degree;
• Strong technical aptitude and ability to work with connected systems and data management;
• Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative team-based environment;
• Ability to learn and operate research agriculture equipment, including precision agriculture technology;
• Knowledge or ability to learn region-specific crop production and farming practices;
• Knowledge of basic statistical analysis and experimental design principles;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills;
• Must live in or relocate to the growing area associated with the role northwest Iowa, centered on Spencer, Iowa.
• Valid driver s license; Driving record (MVR) will be reviewed and must meet guidelines based on the company s Risk Screening for Hiring Drivers;
• DOT medical card or the ability to obtain one through successfully completing and passing a DOT physical. In addition, candidates must be able to meet all applicable DOT/FMCSA criteria. Drivers with previous DOT driving experience may be required to undergo FMCSA safety checks and applicable review;
• Federal regulations from the Department of Transportation cover this position and mandate the passing of certain preemployment requirements, such as a background check, drug test and physical;
• Ability to obtain Pesticide Applicators License and FAA part 107 Certification for Unmanned Aerial Systems.

Physical Demands of required tasks:

• Ability to safely lift up to 50lbs.;
• Work in conditions that require sitting, standing, walking for extended periods;
• Ability to work in high and low temperatures in a field setting;
• Capable of working long hours, primarily during the peak busy field season.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in agronomy, ag sciences, life sciences, engineering, or related field with at least 5 years of relevant experience;
• Experience in agricultural research, seed technology industry or plant breeding;
• Broad knowledge of region-specific crop production and farming practices;
• Mechanical and IT aptitude;
• Experience with precision agriculture hardware and software; 
• History of implementing continuous improvements and innovation.

Posting will be available through October 9, 2025.

Employees can expect to be paid an annual salary range of $75,547.20 - $113,320.80. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant).  Other benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc. If selected for this role, the offer may vary based on market data/ranges, an applicant s skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors.