Barenbrug USA has an opening for a R&D Station Manager/Forage Breeder at its main R&D facility located in Albany, Oregon.  This is an exciting opportunity to join a progressive global seed company which is investing heavily in research and technology in order to accomplish the stated mission: “Increase animal productivity to help feed the world, and enhance the enjoyment of green spaces”       

Barenbrug USA is part of the global Royal Barenbrug Group that is a leader in grass breeding, production and marketing for over 110 years.  In the US, we service the professional turf and forage business as well as the retail consumer market segment. Barenbrug USA is also a leading exporter of grass and legume species. 

Role Synopsis:

The R&D Station Manager is primarily responsible for over-seeing all aspects related to the R&D activities of Barenbrug USA. The station manager will also be the dedicated forage breeder and overseeing the work of the turf and forage R&D teams.

This position reports directly to the CEO of Barenbrug USA and coordinates the research programs with the Global Research Director.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership of team of at least four direct reports with supporting staff members
• Manage multiple R&D projects with the commercial end result in mind
• Design breeding scheme’s based on multiple and complex information sources
• Bring new ideas to the table and make well thought out proposals for these projects
• Oversee payroll, expenses and capital improvement projects in accordance with approved budgets

Essential Qualifications        

Technical Skills

• Experience with collection and analyzing experimental data, genetic statistics and experimental design 
• Ability to use an operational IT Breeding system, Microsoft products such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Experience with field and greenhouse work 

Leadership Skills

• Proven ability to lead a professional team and a willingness to invest in the development of those you are responsible for

Interpersonal Skills

• Possess strong ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to develop and maintain productive work relationships with various positions within the organization including but not limited to sales, product development and the seed supply chain 
• Proven ability to interact with external partners such as public research personnel, farmers and universities

Teamwork Skills

• Team player with a positive attitude and the ability to be a facilitator in this process amongst colleagues and staff

Adaptability Skills

• Must be able to deal with frequent changes, delays or unexpected events
• Handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Willing to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions
• Must be available for travel to visit offsite research locations, universities etc. within the USA as well as occasionally travel internationally to interact with other Barenbrug R&D staff.

Required Education:

• Master’s Degree in Agronomic or Biological Science with a specialization in plant breeding or genetics, a PhD is desirable 
• Minimum 5-8 years’ experience in commercial breeding program management.  F1 hybrid breeding experience is highly desirable
• Must be proficient in English; Spanish is a plus

Barenbrug USA offers a competitive remuneration package including full health, 401K and profit sharing. 

If you are interested in this position and meet the above qualifications and skills, please send your resume and cover letter to: James Schneider, President/CEO at jschneider@barusa.com.