Research Scientist

Excellence. Pride. Integrity. Compassion. Trust. Are you ready to plant your career in a place where words like these serve as the foundation for doing business every day? At Michigan Sugar, our purpose is Making Life Sweeter, and our mission is Creating Growth and Opportunity.

The Research Scientist will serve as the company’s coordinator and facilitator of agricultural research projects, specializing in pile storage and data analysis. Projects include small plot agronomic research trials (weed control, fertility, disease, plant health and plant growth), sugar beet storage, and crop records data analysis. The role will collaborate closely with the Ag Operations team to implement new pile storage management strategies across the Michigan Sugar growing region.

The Research Scientist reports to the Research Manager, Director of Ag Strategy and Logistics, and Director of Agronomy, and also manages the sugar testing research lab at the MSC Agricultural Research Center and develops new sugar beet storage testing techniques.

• Coordinate and facilitate agricultural research projects.
• Statistically analyze agricultural research and grower crop records data.
• Lead the publication of the annual Research Results book.
• Manage the sugar testing research lab and Lab Technician.
• Understand the operation and calibration of the Betalyser and NIRs testing equipment.
• Work with Factory Operations to implement new sugar testing methods.
• Improve research lab processes and practices to increase lab efficiency.
• Develop new sugar beet storage testing techniques.
• Develop testing protocols for pile storage that calculate pile loss and sugar loss.
• Work closely with the Research Manager to train research workers.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

• M.S. or Ph.D. Degree in Agronomy or a related field.
• Competency with computer software packages such as ARM, SAS, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong background in statistics, small plot research design, data analysis, and reporting.
• Experience in sugar beet pile storage testing procedures.
• Strong communication and public speaking skills.
• Ability to apply research findings to producer‑scale agronomic practices.

• Strong attention to detail.
• Self‑motivated and able to work independently in a fast‑paced, ever‑changing environment.
• Team‑oriented and collaborative.
• Ability to handle confidential information.
• Calmly manages adversity and difficult situations.
• Professional conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrates ethics and integrity.
• Model professional values and behavior.
• Quick learner of new software/computer programs.

NOTE:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by staff assigned to this position. The above statements are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required. All staff may be required to perform duties outside their normal responsibilities as needed.

Competitive salary, opportunity for professional growth, and 100% company‑paid medical insurance. A comprehensive benefits package includes dental and life insurance, 401(k) match, paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, and more.

Equal Opportunity Employer