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Crop Modeling Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Nutriquest

Consulting Controller

Mason City, IA · On-site

... and row-crop). Our team focuses on the specific needs of a business to offer expertise in ... projection models. Commits to the mission, vision, beliefs of NutriQuest and consistently ...

NutriQuest

Consulting Controller

Mason City, IA

... and row-crop). Our team focuses on the specific needs of a business to offer expertise in ... projection models. Commits to the mission, vision, beliefs of NutriQuest and consistently ...

Kemin

Finance Director - Operations

Des Moines, IA

... crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines. We employ 3,500 global employees and ... Lead the development of financial models for investment decisions, capital projects, make-vs.-buy ...

Kemin

Finance Director - Operations

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines. We employ 3,500 global employees and ... Lead the development of financial models for investment decisions, capital projects, make-vs.-buy ...

Kemin

Finance Director - Operations

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines. We employ 3,500 global employees and ... Lead the development of financial models for investment decisions, capital projects, make-vs.-buy ...

All JobsCrop Modeling JobsCrop Modeling Jobs in Iowa

Crop Modeling information

See Iowa salary details

$45.6K

$59.9K

$68.6K

How much do crop modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for crop modeling in Iowa is $59,906.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,400.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Crop Modeling?

Professionals in Crop Modeling typically spend their days designing and running simulations, analyzing data from field trials or remote sensing, and refining models to predict crop growth under various environmental conditions. Collaborating with agronomists, data scientists, and farmers is common to ensure models reflect real-world variables and are practical for field application. Additionally, they may present findings through reports or presentations, participate in multidisciplinary research projects, and stay updated on advancements in agricultural technology. This variety ensures each day offers unique challenges and opportunities to impact agricultural outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Crop Modeling position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Crop Modeling, you need a solid background in agricultural science, data analysis, and mathematical modeling, often requiring an advanced degree in agronomy, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with crop simulation software (like DSSAT or APSIM), programming languages such as Python or R, and GIS tools is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are key soft skills that enhance performance in this role. These skills are crucial for developing reliable models that inform decision-making in agriculture and support sustainable crop management practices.

What is a Crop Modeling job?

A Crop Modeling job involves developing and using computer-based models to simulate plant growth, yield, and environmental interactions. Professionals in this field analyze data related to weather, soil, and crop management to predict agricultural outcomes and optimize farming practices. They work closely with agronomists, researchers, and policymakers to improve food production efficiency and sustainability. This role typically requires expertise in agronomy, data science, and programming.

What are popular job titles related to Crop Modeling jobs in Iowa? For Crop Modeling jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Crop Modeling jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Crop Modeling jobs in Iowa are:
Crop Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crop Modeling job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,906 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Crop Systems Modeling and Data Analytics

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Crop Systems Modeling and Data Analytics

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Crop Systems Modeling and Data Analytics
Appointment Type:
Post Doc/Trainee
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Department of Agronomy at Iowa State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a multidisciplinary research program focused on improving the productivity and environmental performance of cropping systems in the U.S. Midwest.
The successful candidate will analyze existing experimental and on-farm datasets on corn and soybean production systems, integrate drone and remote-sensing imagery, and conduct APSIM simulations to address research questions related to crop physiology, plant breeding, nitrogen management, water quality, crop rotations, and predictive agriculture. The position offers opportunities to work collaboratively with experts in crop science, soil science, remote sensing, data analytics, and agricultural systems modeling.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Analyze large experimental and on-farm datasets from corn and soybean production systems.
  • Process and interpret drone-based and remote sensing imagery.
  • Conduct APSIM simulation modeling and related analyses.
  • Investigate Genotype × Management × Environment (G × M × E) interactions across production environments.
  • Develop predictive models and decision-support insights for agricultural systems.
  • Evaluate crop responses to management practices, nitrogen fertilizer strategies, and environmental conditions.
  • Synthesize experimental and modeling outcomes into peer-reviewed journal manuscripts.
  • Present research findings at regional, national, and international scientific conferences.
  • Collaborate with faculty, graduate students, research staff, and external partners.
  • Contribute to grant-funded research activities and reporting requirements.

The research program seeks to improve both crop productivity and environmental outcomes by identifying management practices that increase system efficiency. Research focuses on increasing crop yields while reducing inputs and environmental losses, particularly water and nitrogen losses.
A central component of the program is understanding complex interactions among genetics, management, and environmental conditions and modeling key processes within the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum. The laboratory utilizes a combination of field experimentation at multiple scales and process-based simulation modeling to advance sustainable agricultural systems.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in agronomy or related science.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience authoring and contributing to peer-reviewed scientific publications.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret agronomic datasets, including crop, soil, weather, and management data.
  • Experience with process-based crop simulation modeling, particularly the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM).
  • Experience with remote sensing applications, including drone imagery acquisition, processing, and analysis.

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Agronomy is focused on new and improved approaches to agriculture. New methods of conservation. Improved soil health. New approaches to bioenergy. Improved water quality. Advanced genetic traits. The end goal is to produce food, fuel, and fiber in a more efficient and economical way for the benefit of people and the environment around the world.
We are applying science to advance crop production systems while protecting and improving air, soil, and water quality.
Department Unit/Website:
Department of Agronomy | Iowa State University
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Proposed Start Date:
September 1, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
Post Docs
Original Posting Date:
July 16, 2026
Posting Close Date:
July 30, 2026
Job Requisition Number:
R19506
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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