R&D Specialist II - 1st Shift

R&D Specialist II – 1st Shift (Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm)

Identifies and validates molecular targets that play a key role in plant pathology, yield, and nutrition; analyzes and identifies the biological, chemical, and genetic properties of plants; and studies molecular biology, cell biology, plant genetics, plant physiology, biochemistry, and/or microbiology as input to the discovery of new plant cultivars or agricultural methods.

In this Production Genotyping role, the incumbent executes high‑throughput genotyping activities in close collaboration with lab team members to ensure timely delivery of high‑quality data, consistently meets daily and weekly KPI targets, and drives process and system improvements while maintaining strict adherence to safety, quality, and compliance requirements. The role also involves operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining laboratory automation systems in a dynamic, innovation‑driven R&D environment.

• Meet daily and weekly genotyping objectives while consistently delivering high‑quality data.
• Manage and operate specialized high‑throughput laboratory and automation technologies, including troubleshooting and routine maintenance.
• Participate in cross‑functional work across multiple platforms and process areas to support end‑to‑end genotyping workflows.
• Solve technical and operational challenges, enhance workflow efficiency, and drive continuous improvement in lab processes.
• Design and conduct experiments, applying specialized scientific techniques and multiple data sources to validate methods and improve processes.
• Adhere to established protocols while operating complex instrumentation and using deductive reasoning to resolve issues within sophisticated laboratory technologies.
• Prioritize and coordinate tasks within a large team, provide training and guidance to colleagues, and maintain comprehensive records and documentation in digital and paper systems.
• Champion a strong safety culture by following and reinforcing best practices, protocols, and compliance requirements in all lab activities.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, chemistry, engineering, or another life science field.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proficiency in digital technologies, including data analysis and visualization tools, and experience with computerized workflow tracking systems.
• Experience in experimental design and execution, with familiarity in high‑throughput laboratory automation and mechanical aptitude for operating and troubleshooting automated systems.
• Demonstrated ability to overcome challenges, take initiative, and deliver high‑quality results while adhering to established processes and safety protocols.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proven problem‑solving skills in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and timelines while maintaining urgency and efficiency to support business objectives.

• At least one year of experience in a high‑throughput Taq Man genotyping or production environment.
• Expertise in leveraging data for decision‑making, including analyzing production KPIs, guiding investigations, conducting risk assessments, and performing cost/benefit analyses.
• Experience in troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory instrumentation, with a background in workflow optimization using root cause analysis, Lean, 5S, or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proven ability to balance and prioritize business deliverables, personal development, and project assignments, and to independently design, execute, interpret, and validate scientific experiments or methods.
• Successful track record of communicating scientific data and laboratory matters to teams, partners, and stakeholders, and of building networks and collaborating to drive innovation, continuous improvement, and solutions to complex business or scientific challenges.

Salary range: $60,000 – $90,000 per year. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (when applicable). Other benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, paid time off, and sick leave. Offer may vary based on market data, applicant skills, relevant experience, and degree level.

United States:
Iowa – Ankeny

Division:
Crop Science
Reference Code: 874050
Posting available until July 6, 2026

Bayer is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans. Bayer is a E‑Verify Employer.