Seed Testing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

This entry-level Field Operator (Safety) role supports agronomic field operations and research activities that bring innovative agricultural technologies to market. You will assist with establishing and maintaining research trials and sales demonstration plots, applying crop protection products under supervision, and supporting farm and equipment operations that help advance sustainable solutions for crops that feed and clothe the world.

• Assist with crop and trial establishment, including measuring and labeling plots, planting and transplanting crops, and preparing fields and seed for trial work.
• Evaluate research plots for product efficacy and crop phytotoxicity, and accurately record observations as directed.
• Support irrigation system setup, monitoring, and basic maintenance, and assist with crop harvest activities.
• Mix and apply crop protection products under the supervision of the Field Operations representative, following all safety procedures and standard operating procedures.
• Help load, secure, and haul equipment to and from research sites within the assigned territory, using company vehicles and equipment as authorized.
• Perform routine field trial and equipment maintenance, ensuring research plots, tools, and machinery remain in good working order.
• Assist with the establishment and monitoring of sales demonstration trials, including plot layout, signage, and ongoing observations.
• Enter field and trial data into the SCOUT system with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Operate farm equipment as directed, such as tractors, planters, and other implements, in accordance with safety and operating guidelines.
• Support planting, pollinating, harvesting, weeding, detasseling, rogueing, and other outdoor seed and crop activities as needed.
• Participate in field and farm preparation activities, including field clean-up, seed sampling, and general grounds maintenance.
• Assist in the maintenance and improvement of farm facilities and assets, helping to keep buildings, equipment, and fields in good condition.
• Adhere to all safety policies and procedures, actively support the site Safety program, and attend regular company-sponsored safety meetings.
• Follow all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and site safety requirements when performing assigned tasks.
• Work collaboratively as a member of the field operations team, taking daily direction from supervisors and managers and supporting colleagues as needed.
• Perform physically demanding tasks that may involve bending, lifting, and long periods of sitting or standing, especially during peak seasons.
• Work extended hours or shift work during busy periods, including flexible schedules that may exceed 8 hours per day.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned to support field operations, research activities, and farm management.

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1–3 years of experience in a related field, agriculture, or farm environment.
• Ability to read and write in English to understand verbal and written task and safety instructions and to perform assigned tasks accurately.
• Ability to adhere to all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and site safety requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to function effectively as a team member and take daily direction from supervisors and managers.
• Capability to perform physical work, including bending, lifting up to approximately 50 pounds, and long periods of sitting or standing.
• Willingness and ability to work extended hours, shift work, and flexible schedules during peak seasons.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license suitable for operating company vehicles and equipment.
• General knowledge of computer operating systems and comfort with basic computer operation.
• Ability to accurately enter and manage data in systems such as SCOUT or similar data collection tools.

• Experience on a farm or an agricultural background is preferred.
• 1–2 years of college coursework or experience in an agricultural field is preferred but not required.
• Non-commercial or commercial pesticide applicator license in the state of residency is preferred.
• Ability to safely mix and apply crop protection products under supervision.
• Comfort working in outdoor environments in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to undergo an auditory exam if hearing protection is required.
• Willingness to undergo pulmonary function testing if respirator use is required.
• Willingness to complete an eye exam and motor vehicle record (MVR) check when driving company vehicles or equipment.
• Ability to successfully complete a lift test for tasks requiring lifting approximately 50 pounds.
• Willingness to complete a Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination to meet DOT guidelines, if applicable.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening as part of the hiring process.

You will join a mission-driven organization that focuses on advancing innovative agricultural solutions and supporting sustainable food and fiber production. The work offers variety, learning opportunities, and hands-on experience in modern agronomic practices and field research. You will be part of a collaborative team environment that emphasizes safety, training, and professional development, providing a strong foundation for building a long-term career in agriculture and field operations.

This role is primarily field-based and involves working outdoors in agricultural settings, research plots, and farm facilities. You will regularly work with farm equipment, irrigation systems, and crop protection technologies, and use computer systems such as SCOUT for data entry and record-keeping. The position requires significant physical activity, including bending, lifting up to approximately 50 pounds, and extended periods of standing or sitting, particularly during peak growing and harvest seasons. Work hours can be flexible and may include extended days or shift work that exceeds 8 hours, depending on seasonal demands. You will operate and ride in company vehicles and equipment, and work in environments where hearing protection, respirators, and other personal protective equipment may be required in accordance with safety protocols. The setting emphasizes adherence to safety policies, participation in regular safety meetings, and compliance with all standard operating procedures to maintain a safe and productive workplace.

This is a Contract position based out of Jerseyville, IL.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $24.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Jerseyville,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 2, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.