At Corteva Agriscience, you’ll help us grow what is next! No matter your role, you will be part of a team building the future of agriculture, leading breakthroughs in the innovation and application of science and technology that will better the lives of people all over the world and fuel the progress of humankind.
We’re hiring an Agronomy Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Supervisor who will work under the direction of the Agronomy Lead and alongside varying research programs to provide Integrated Pest Management support to the different plant breeding projects within the Puerto Rico Research Center. The Agronomy Supervisor oversees the execution of all IPM components in the structures (greenhouses), following high-quality standards and having a strong focus on safety management and sustainability. The ideal candidate must have a good background in Agronomy/ Horticulture, biological control, entomology, agrochemicals mode of action, people management and skills related to project management. This position will also provide support to the IPM Field Team in certain seasons of the year.
What You’ll Do:
Supervise the effective execution of the Integrated Pest Management strategy, incorporating biological controls, chemical rotation, cultural, and mechanical practices to ensure long-term success.
Analyze scouting data and pest control decisions to ensure they are effective in maintaining pest populations under the economic threshold of action.
Work with the IPM team to establish priorities and preventive actions for the successful delivery of high-quality seed produced in greenhouses but also under open field conditions.
Perform agronomical walks for early detection of potential crop problems that may affect seed production.
Communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors of the different research projects to discuss pest control strategies and coordinate IPM activities.
Continuous development and integration of new IPM strategies, technology, and equipment to prevent insecticide resistance and to improve efficiency results.
Perform local research within the Agronomy group using statistical analysis.
Provide training to the IPM employees about the best IPM practices and safety procedures in controlled environments and open fields.
Analyze the need for labor and supplies according to workload, priorities, metrics and pest incidence.
Development and implementation of standard operational procedures within the Agronomy area.
Perform reports to analyze the efficiency of the pest control strategies.
Supervise compliance with the EPA Worker Protection Standard regulations and Pesticide Safety Standard.
Work with the IPM team members to maintain a collaborative work environment to ensure research goals are met to expectations.
Perform team meetings and one-on-one discussions to provide feedback, coaching, and to discuss different topics that may impact team performance.
Leadership in best safety practices to prevent injuries and near misses. Collaborate in the EHS investigations process and follow all company principles and compliance programs.
Promote diversity, inclusion, and professionalism in the work environment.
What Skills You Need:
A bachelor’s degree in Agronomy or Science is required. A master's degree is preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of experience working in integrated pest control or agronomical activities for Research and Development activities in the structures or open fields.
Minimum of 5 years of experience working with field crops (corn, soybean, cotton, sorghum) and basic recognition of the main pests and diseases affecting these crops.
Competency with standard Microsoft Office programs, Power Apps, Power Bi, Monday and capacity to learn new technologies and software.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in Spanish and English. Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
Adaptability to work in different environments and with diverse people.
Strong creativity, innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Must have excellent time management and organizational skills and ability to work using metrics, projections and planning tools.
Available to work on Salinas and Aibonito sites in varying work shifts according to area needs.
Minimum of 5 years of experience supervising people in the agricultural sector.
Must have a valid PR driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
EPA Worker Protection Standard certification. A license for the management of restricted-use pesticides is preferred.
Will be required to do physical lifting and work outdoors and in varying ergonomic environments.
Must have the ability to work as a strong team member as well as work independently when needed.
Open to participating in continuous training to obtain new skills needed for the utilization of new agricultural technologies.
**Please note: there is no relocation assistance or visa sponsorship provided for this role.
Benefits – How We’ll Support You:
Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills
Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place
Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment
Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays
Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father
Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program
Learn more about our total rewards package here - Corteva Benefits
Check out life at Corteva! www.linkedin.com/company/corteva/life
Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.
Corteva Agriscience is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.