Objectives

• Under the direction of the Research Manager, the Research Associate collaborates in the management and execution of field research and demonstration projects on behalf of WARC as well as assisting in the sourcing of funds for projects.
• The Research Associate will represent WARC and uphold their mandate to provide technical transfer of results to producers and agronomists.

Job Description

• In collaboration with the Research Manager, the Research Associate assists in the development and implementation of field research and demonstration projects.
• In collaboration with the Research Manager, the Research Associate assists in identifying and developing new projects and writing project proposals to obtain funding, working with other researchers, agronomists and industry representatives.
• Incorporates goals and objectives that work towards the strategic direction of WARC.
• Positively represent WARC and promote the interests of WARC in written articles and at meetings, as well as any other duties as directed by the Board of Directors or Research Manager.

Duties Include:
Management

• Assist in the identification of research personnel requirements and provide leadership in the supervision of research agronomists, technicians and summer students.
• Supervise summer students.

Field Research
In collaboration with the other research personnel:

• Coordinate, execute and record field activities including but not limited to seeding, treatment application, plot maintenance, data collection, harvest and sample processing.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure research is conducted according to contracts and protocols.
• Analyze/interpret data and write reports or submit data to appropriate collaborators to meet deadlines as outlined in contracts.
• Source land and off station sites as needed in collaboration with the Research Manager.
• Ensure quality of all plots through on-going field scouting and perform plot maintenance as required.

Project Identification and Development

• Develop priorities and issues with input from the Board of Directors and Research Manager.
• Identify potential projects and collaborate with other researchers and consultants to develop and implement protocols.
• Develop trial quotes and once approved by the Research Manager, the principal investigator is responsible for sending the quotes.
• Develop and write new research project proposals for research and demonstrations on behalf of WARC.
• Prepare and manage budgets for individual projects and demonstrations.
• Meet contract deadlines and reporting requirements as contained within contracts.

Technology Transfer

• Develop written reports, presentations, posters and factsheets, keeping the intended audience in mind (farmers, agronomists or researchers).
• Present at WARC extension events and invited extension events as requested.
• Work with AAFC, Saskatchewan Agriculture Crop Specialists and commodity group agronomists to ensure relevant information is available to agronomists and researchers.
• Represent WARC at various meetings with funding bodies, government, stakeholders, and industry at tradeshows, extension meetings and conferences, at the request of the Research Manager.
• Collaborate with all WARC personnel to develop and carry out technology transfer events.
• Collaborate with all WARC personnel to manage and update our website and social media platforms.

Essential Qualifications:
The candidate must have a degree or diploma in Agriculture or equivalent experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint is required. Knowledge and experience in field research with the ability to operate small plot equipment is required. The candidate must be a legal resident of Canada and hold a valid driver’s license.

Additional Qualifications:
Experience in crop/plant science and soil science agronomy is an asset. Other qualifications include the ability to work independently, strong leadership skills, the ability to work in a team environment, good time management skills and acceptable verbal/written communication skills.

Reporting

The Research Associate will report directly to the Research Manager. A monthly accounting of work performed is to be provided to the Research Manager. A performance assessment will be completed in conjunction with the Research Manager and Business Operations Manager and presented to the Board of Directors.

Salary and Working Conditions:
The starting salary will be based on education and experience in accordance with the WARC salary schedule. Working hours are flexible with a minimum of a 40 hour work week. The employee is expected to manage their own work schedule in consultation with the Research Manager. There is no allowance for overtime pay. The position is for a minimum of a one-year term, with an approximate start date of September 1, 2025, and the potential to be extended further.

Please submit your application by clicking APPLY TO THIS POSITION below.