Soil Microbiologist

Overview

Nutrien is a leading provider of crop inputs and services. Our purpose, Feeding the Future, guides our culture of safety, inclusion, integrity, and results. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe, belongs, and acts with integrity.

Nutrien Ag Solutions is the retail division of Nutrien, providing full-acre solutions through a network of crop consultants at more than 2,000 locations in North America, South America, and Australia. For more than 150 years, we have helped growers achieve high yields with sustainable solutions, offering products including proprietary brands Loveland Products, Proven Seed and Dyna-Gro Seed, along with financial, custom application, and precision ag services.

Through the collective expertise of nearly 26,000 employees, we operate a world-class network of production, distribution, and ag retail facilities to serve growers’ needs and promote a profitable, sustainable future for all stakeholders. Help us raise the expectation of what an agriculture company can be and grow your career with Nutrien and Nutrien Ag Solutions.

• Draft formal project proposals which are peer reviewed by internal colleagues.
• Write clear and detailed experimental protocols.
• Be fully responsible for hands-on research in the laboratory and greenhouse. Work with shared technicians in our labs on site. Implement research, analyze data, draw and share conclusions, and evaluate project success vs. project goals. All research is documented in formal reports.
• Propose and modify existing soil microbiology SOPs for use in our lab.
• Drive innovative solutions and take initiative in project work.
• Stay current with relevant professional/scientific societies. Read and share journal articles with colleagues.
• Use applied statistics software for data analysis.
• Assume responsibility for certain analytical instruments and lab areas. Assigned areas will meet safety and compliance expectations.
• Take ownership for continuous improvement in the safety culture of self and colleagues.
• Be a leader and example of the company’s culture of care. Model respectful behavior in all communication, including digital, oral, and written interactions. Above all, we value integrity, professionalism, and kindness in every interaction.

• M.Sc. required, preferably in Soil Microbiology, Soil Science, or a related field; experience may be considered in lieu of education. Ph.D. in the above discipline is preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in agricultural research relating to soil science, crop nutrition, or biostimulants. Additional experience is preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year experience in direct soil microbiology, e.g., DNA/RNA extractions & sequencing, metagenomics, bioinformatics, metabolomics, proteomics, qPCR, RNA-Seq, enzyme assays, microscopy, etc.
• Self-motivation, assertiveness, initiative, and results orientation.
• Proficiency in technical writing and presentations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal skills, and computer skills.
• Excellent project planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to think creatively and solve problems.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and drive results.
• Ability to build strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, listening well and providing constructive feedback, suggestions, and recognition as appropriate.
• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a professional, courteous, and respectful work environment.
• Strong emotional intelligence and ability to collaborate in a team-oriented culture.

The salary range for this role, in Biola, CA, is between $68,400 and $105,000. This range is general guidance; actual compensation depends on factors including candidate skill set, experience, training, licensure/certifications, location, and business needs. Benefits include medical, dental, vision coverage, life insurance, disability coverage for positions over 30 hours/week, retirement with employer matching, paid vacation, sick days, holidays, paid personal and maternity/parental leaves, and an Employee and Family Assistance Program.

Details will be shared in the…