Food Research Development Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

About us: 

Valent U.S.A. LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited, engages in the development, registration, sales, and marketing of integrated technological solutions for crop production and pest management that deliver value for our customers and stakeholders. A leading crop protection firm serving the agricultural and non-crop products markets in North America, Valent products help growers produce safe and abundant food and fiber crops, and horticultural professionals improve the quality of life for their customers. The corporate motto, Products That Work, From People Who Care®, describes the company's business philosophy. Valent seeks out and provides customers with innovative and effective solutions to their production challenges. Our vision is to be the best company delivering integrated solutions of biorational and traditional crop protection solutions to our customers. Valent is dedicated to creating a world that is healthier and more comfortable, and that has a sustainable abundance of quality, affordable food, helping crops to be the ultimate renewable resource.

General Description:

The Agricultural Research Technician supports Field Research Scientists in conducting agricultural experiments in field and greenhouse settings. Responsibilities include assisting with research trials through plot setup, planting, cultivation, irrigation, harvesting, and accurate data collection and recordkeeping to support quality assurance programs. The role involves calibrating and applying fertilizers and crop protection products in compliance with safety and regulatory standards, as well as operating and maintaining agricultural equipment such as tractors and precision irrigation systems. The technician also oversees irrigation and fertility programs, performs basic maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment and greenhouse systems, supports seasonal staff, and assists with facility upkeep. This position requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to safe work practices, along with the ability to work independently and perform physical tasks in varying outdoor conditions. Agricultural experience is required, and a valid driver’s license is required.

Principal Responsibilities:

•    Operate and maintain agricultural machinery, including tractors and precision irrigation systems

•    Assist in the setup and management of field and greenhouse research trials, including planting, cultivation, and harvesting

•    Calibrate and apply fertilizers and crop protection products in accordance with safety and regulatory guidelines

•    Collect, record, and maintain accurate research and field operation data

•    Oversee irrigation and fertility programs to support crop performance 

•    Troubleshoot and perform basic maintenance and repairs on equipment, greenhouse systems, and facilities

Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree with 5+ years of related experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with 3+ years of relevant experience in agriculture or an equivalent 
• Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Previous experience in production agriculture. 
• Must possess or be able to obtain an Illinois Pesticide Applicators License.

Physical Demands and Work Environment (FIELD Position)

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

•    Physical Demands include constant walking, standing, bending at the neck and waist, squatting, climbing, kneeling, crawling, twisting at the neck and waist, simple grasping, power grasping, and fine manipulation with hands, pushing and pulling with hands, reaching above shoulder level, and lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs.; also frequent lifting and carrying of up to 75 lbs., occasional sitting and lifting and carrying of up to 100+ lbs.  Travel by air or car up to 75% of the time and will be required to drive safely for long distances.

•    Work Environment includes exposure to or working in or around moving cars, trucks, forklifts, equipment and machinery including a computer keyboard and mouse; uneven ground; excessive noise; extremes in temperature, humidity, or wetness; dust, gas, fumes, or chemicals; venomous insects and animals, heights; operation of foot controls or repetitive foot movement; use of special visual or auditory protective equipment.  May be required to work outdoors in an agricultural crop field, assist in putting out demonstration plots, wear respirator and other personal protection equipment.  

•    Frequency Definitions: Constant = Over 40% / Frequent = Up to 40% / Occasional = Up to 10%

What We Offer 

We recognize that compensation and benefits play a crucial role in your career decisions. That’s why we’re dedicated to equitable pay practices and transparency in how we reward our employees.

Base Salary: The estimated annual base salary for this position ranges from: 

$29.90 to $35.91 per hour. Individual pay is based upon location, skills, experience, and other relevant factors.

Incentives: All full-time employees are eligible for an incentive program or profit-sharing program in addition to their base salary.

Benefits: 

•    High-quality healthcare coverage starting on day one, with options for medical (HSA/HRA), vision, and dental plans

•    5% company contribution to your 401(k), plus a quarterly discretionary bonus

•    Immediate 100% vesting of all retirement contributions

•    Financial assistance programs to support your goals

•    Life and disability insurance for added security

•    Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer days

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

We are proud to power a sustainable future through our work. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been at the core of our culture since the beginning. Today, they continue to drive everything we do.

Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to a better world.

•    Valent U.S.A., Valent North America LLC, Valent BioSciences LLC and Mycorrhizal Applications LLC are an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.

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