Sustainability Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Location: West Salem, WI

Come grow with DLF!
At DLF, we're passionate about plants, people, and progress. As a global leader in high-quality grass seed for agriculture and turf, we're helping create a greener, more sustainable future.

The Opportunity We are seeking a detail-oriented, hands-on Research Assistant to help drive agricultural innovation at our West Salem Research Station. This role bridges the gap between hands-on fieldwork, agronomic data collection, and controlled greenhouse environments. You will play a crucial role in the execution of our research trials, gaining hands-on experience with both field operations and controlled-environment tasks like greenhouse activities and disease screenings. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your foundational agronomic skills and build a career path focused on agricultural innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Greenhouse & Pathology Execution: Engage in greenhouse plant propagation, disease screenings, and breeding population development. Actively participate in seedling disease screenings and specialized selections.
• Field Trials & Operations: Assist in the establishment, maintenance, and harvesting of field and controlled-environment trials. Support in-field forage sampling, drying, and processing workflows.
• Data Management: Assist in collecting, recording, and managing trial data accurately and consistently, utilizing digital tools to capture crucial seasonal data.
• Organization & Processing: Support plot layout, labeling, and general trial organization. Prepare trial materials, assist with sample processing, and help operate and maintain research tools and equipment.
• Safety & Teamwork: Work collaboratively within the research team and ensure strict adherence to quality, stewardship, and safety protocols during visits, evaluations, and peak trial periods.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Holds an Associate's Degree or higher with 2+ years of similar experience, or equivalent foundational experience in agricultural research, greenhouse production, or seed technology.
• Work Style: A dedicated, self-motivated continuous learner who excels both independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• Core Skills: Highly organized with strong attention to detail, proficiency with Microsoft Office, and excellent communication skills.
• Licenses: Holds a valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Physical working conditions include sitting, bending, standing, and the continuous use of hands for repetitive tasks.
• Requires the physical ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds and involves frequent walking.
• Experience and willingness to work frequently in the field across varying weather conditions, which may include exposure to potentially hazardous or slippery work areas.
• Reliable, resilient, and adaptable, with the willingness to put in extended or overtime hours as necessary during busy agricultural seasons.

Why You'll Love Working Here
- Competitive hourly pay (dependent on experience).
- Full benefits package, including health, retirement, and paid time off.
- Opportunities to learn new research technologies and grow your career.
- Work that contributes to sustainable agriculture and environmental health.
Grass does more than look good - it stores carbon, prevents erosion, supports biodiversity, and sustains life. Join us in growing a healthier planet.

Apply Now
Ready to grow your career?
Apply on our Careers Page (https://careers.dlf.com) with your resume and a short cover letter describing why you're interested in this role.

Check us out www.dlf.com (Global) & www.us.dlf.com (USA) & www.ca.dlf.com (CA) and visit our careers page at https://careers.dlf.com.

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
DLF USA Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and values diversity and inclusion at every level.