Date of posting here April 15, 2010 Type of position Full Time Employer Syngenta Description of Employer As global demand for food and fuel continues to rise, we are dedicated to our purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies with more than 24,000 employees in over 90 countries. We work in a collaborative and inspiring culture where personal contribution is rewarded and growth and development are at the heart of our culture. Through our world-class science, global reach and commitment to working with our customers, we help to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life. There’s never been a more important time to join Syngenta. Location Salinas, Puerto Rico Salary DOE Benefits Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance. Closing date of competition 05.15.2010 Date position available 04.15.2010 Description of duties Role Purpose - The purpose of the Research Associate is to support all Soybean Product Development Scientists in their efforts to create superior products and support the Soybean Nursery Manager’s targeted goals for precision, accuracy and efficiency in site operations at a continuous breeding and increasing nursery. Accountabilities - Functioning as an integral member of a team responsible for packaging, planting, cross pollinating, tissue sampling, pest scouting, harvesting, and turnaround of soybean seed in screen houses and in the field. Supporting efforts to maintain integrity of seed inventory, packaging, field/screen house layout, pollinating, tissue sampling, threshing, and data collection in a continuous breeding nursery and provide support to the increases program when needed. Performing all tasks and behaving in a manner compliant with and in support of all safety related company policies and practices, including completing all required Company training courses and attending local safety meetings. Comply with all regulatory, stewardship and safety protocols. Providing day-to-day guidance to third-party contract labor staff to achieve desired results. Effectively communicating regularly with peers and supervisors regarding the status of projects and work activities. Providing support in the soybean seed conditioning process, packing and shipping of the continuous breeding program. Continuing developing efficient methods to improve our soybean program. Keeping inventory of all soybean seeds stored in the cold room. Qualifications sought Critical knowledge A four-year degree in an ag related discipline and/or relevant experience - A working knowledge of farming equipment. A valid drivers license is critical. A basic understanding of soybean breeding practices and/or other self-pollinated crops is desirable. Clear understanding of the practices and procedures that affect data precision and accuracy. Understand and use modern agronomic practices. Critical experience: Experience in seed research and operation and day to day maintenance of related equipment. Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities: Ability to use MS Office, especially Word and Excel, and other standard software. Ability to use proprietary systems (SPIRIT) for label printing and inventory management. Ability and motivation to learn new technologies. Critical leadership capabilities: Set Direction Sets ambitious strategic goals Communicates inspirationally Create Edge Steps beyond comfort zones Fosters a culture of creativity and innovation Drive Results Focuses energy on must-wins Manages performance to high standard Liberate Potential Develop self and others Recognizes and celebrates success Additional Information - All applicants must be eligible to work in the US. Physical demands of the essential functions: Capable of working in high or low temperature conditions in field or greenhouse. Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. Capable of working long hours during time-critical periods of the growing season. Working conditions while performing essential functions: Field, laboratory, office. Domestic and possibly international travel may be required with overnight stays. Travel to the continental U.S. may be required and may pollen, fungal spores, chemicalextend to 2-3 weeks. Potential allergens pesticides in the field or greenhouse. Contact for additional information Megan Bird Application procedure   Submit what Please submit your application online at http://www.syngentacareers.com Submit to megan.bird@yoh.com Additional Information EOE