About Western Crop Innovations

Western Crop Innovations (WCI), established in 1973 as the Field Crop Development Centre and reimagined as a not-for-profit organization in 2024, stands at the forefront of agricultural advancement, not only in Alberta but across Western Canada. Based in beautiful Lacombe, Alberta, WCI specializes in the development of feed and forage barley, malting barley, and triticale varieties, each tailored for optimal performance in diverse climates. Our robust operations include a 400-acre central research facility and over 40,000 test plots spread across the province. With a dedicated team, many of whom boast over three decades of experience, we focus on enhancing crop yields, disease resistance, and superior quality characteristics. Following a successful three-year pilot with Olds College and backed by funding from Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation and Results Driven Agriculture Research, WCI will continue to push the boundaries of innovation with the support of industry stakeholders. Join us in shaping the future of agriculture and contributing to a legacy of groundbreaking discoveries.

For more information, please visit our website :   westerncropinnovations.com

About the Opportunity

WCI is seeking a full-time Agronomy Manager, Research  in  Lacombe, AB (hybrid) , with the exciting opportunity to work on projects across Alberta and beyond.  For the first 90 days, you will be expected to work on-site to build relationships and master the role.

Reporting to the Executive Director, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing crop production strategies, implementing sustainable practices, and managing field trials to optimize yields and improve soil health.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible for leading WCI's agronomic initiatives, ensuring the successful execution of field trials, and supporting WCI’s plant breeding and research efforts.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to :

• Managing WCI’s involvement in the Regional Variety Trials (RVTs) across Alberta, including trial coordination, data analysis, and budget preparation
• Advising on and implementing best agronomic practices for plant breeding and small plot research to enhance efficiency and land utilization
• Coordinating the agronomic aspects of new research projects, including proposal development and reporting to third-party funding agencies, in collaboration with WCI breeders and scientists in biotechnology, pathology, and quality
• Liaising with crop commissions, applied research associations, post-secondary institutions, plant breeding centers, and industry representatives to foster collaboration
• Recommending program improvements in agronomy and extension for WCI
• Contributing to research extension through field days, publications, interviews, and speaking engagements
• Leading investigations into the impacts of genotype, environment, and management (GxExM) interactions for WCI varieties and breeding lines
• Collaborating with WCI breeders and scientists in biotechnology, pathology, and quality to enhance research outcomes
• Distributing and publishing trial data to relevant stakeholders for further research and development
• Monitoring the overall performance of WCI trials and providing recommendations for improvement

About You

To qualify, you will have  a Master’s degree in Agriculture and / or Plant Science , ideally with  10+ years in farming or agronomic consulting work .  A combination of education, research background, and hands-on experience may be considered.

The following are also required :

• A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle
• Undergo a criminal record check
• Hold or ability to obtain a First Aid training certificate
• Willingness and ability to take part in hands-on physical tasks

The following skills and experience will be strong attributes :

• Practical experience in small plot research and variety development
• Comprehensive knowledge of agronomy, crop rotations, soil science, and sustainable agriculture practices in Canada
• Demonstrated ability to identify and solve agronomic challenges through practical solutions
• Solid understanding of agricultural regulations and compliance related to crop production and soil management
• Research expertise in crop yield and managing pest, disease, and climate resistance
• Familiarity with Genovix software, genomics tools, and the Microsoft Suite
• Proven experience mentoring and managing technical teams
• Excellent communication skills for clearly conveying complex agronomic concepts to diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency in operating field equipment such as tractors and hauling trailers (asset)
• Hold a Certified Crop Advisor certification (asset)

As our ideal candidate, you bring creativity, a collaborative mindset, and the initiative to drive innovation, all while keeping the bigger picture in focus to grow WCI’s Agronomy program. You are passionate about sustainable practices, willing to take calculated risks, and skilled at asking the right questions. Comfortable working closely with others, you also have the independence and self-sufficiency to manage your own projects effectively.

This is a dynamic leadership role that offers the opportunity to shape agronomic initiatives and collaborate across the agricultural industry. We are looking for someone who can combine practical expertise with innovative thinking, bringing fresh ideas and energy to help push Western Crop Innovations and Western Canada's agriculture industry forward.

About the Benefits

Compensation based on skills and experience is  a competitive annual salary of $78,000-$85,000 , and a host of excellent benefits including :

• Excellent health, vision and dental benefits package
• Relocation Assistance for the right candidate
• Travel reimbursement
• Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability
• 6% matching pension plan
• 22 days paid vacation
• Flexible hybrid work environment

If you're ready to invest your skills and reap the rewards, we invite you to  apply today !