About Confluence Genetics
Confluence Genetics develops soybean technologies and varieties that create value from farm-gate to feed, food and fuel end-markets by unlocking the natural genetic diversity of plants. The Company leverages their proprietary CropOS™ machine learning platform with proprietary germplasm data and speed breeding technologies in our Crop Accelerator facility to drastically accelerate and simplify the product development process. This platform allows for cost-effective and more efficient ways to analyze and make improvements in plant genetics. Confluence Genetics brings a unique and holistic approach to our product and platform development, as we span a broader workflow involving trait and seed development, genome editing, and breeding all the way to creating better ingredients and varieties that tap a strong customer demand. More information can be found online at https://confluence.ag/.

Our Purpose and Core Values

Our Core Values are a set of common principles we share that are fundamental to our company's identity. Real. Inspired!

• Real. We show up with honesty, accountability, and purpose. We lead with integrity and speak with candor, knowing that trust and transparency drive performance. We challenge each other respectfully and stay grounded in what matters—our shared mission and one another.
• Inspired! We’re driven by possibility and energized by progress. With open minds and a bold spirit, we embrace change, take smart risks, and push boundaries. We stay curious, creative, and connected—to each other, our partners, and the future we’re building together.

Department Overview

The Field Operations Team is responsible for conducting a wide range of research activities, namely in the areas of trait discovery and validation, crop genetic engineering, crop transformation, molecular detection, biochemical assays, plant growth, and molecular breeding, to name a few. These activities are aimed at developing new capabilities in crop research, the outcome of which is then leveraged to create new product development opportunities and shorten the time to market. The department leverages its platform capabilities and extensive knowhow in biology and crop science, along with the computational expertise housed within the Data Science & Platform Engineering, as well as the market insights of the Business Development and Commercial teams to design and create new and improved crop varieties, which offer tangible benefits to farmers and consumers, specifically in the areas of sustainability, health and nutrition.

Position Summary

The Sr. Research Associate will support the design, execution, and data collection of multi-location field trials for soybean product development. This role plays a critical part in generating high-quality agronomic and performance data to inform advancement decisions for new soybean varieties and technologies.

You Will:

• Field Trial Execution
  • Plan, plant, manage, and harvest replicated field trials across multiple research locations and grower cooperators.
  • Ensure timely and accurate trial establishment, including seed preparation, plot layout, and agronomic treatments.
  • Monitor trial conditions throughout the growing season and implement crop management practices (e.g., irrigation, fertilization, pest control).
• Data Collection & Management
  • Collect agronomic and phenotypic data using both manual methods and digital tools (e.g., tablets, drones, sensors).
  • Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and integrity across sites.
  • Maintain trial logs and assist with seasonal data summaries and reports.
• Equipment Operation & Maintenance
  • Operate and maintain research equipment including planters, harvesters, drones, and handheld instruments.
  • Troubleshoot field equipment issues and coordinate with technical staff or vendors as needed.
• Collaboration & Communication
  • Work closely with breeders, agronomists, and data scientists to align field activities with research goals.
  • Assist with training and supervision of seasonal staff, interns, or contractors during peak workloads.
  • Represent the company and research team during visits from collaborators, partners, or customers.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

You Have:

(Competencies and Qualifications)

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Plant Science, Crop Science, or related field (Master’s preferred)

Experience

• 3–5 years of field research experience, preferably with soybeans or other row crops
• Experience conducting replicated trials in an agricultural research or seed development setting
• Experience managing field research data.
• Working knowledge of small plot equipment and operations.
• Pesticide applicators license or ability to obtain.
• CDL license or ability to obtain.

Software/Skillset

• Knowledge of precision equipment and platforms.
• Strong skills with Microsoft Office and ability to learn and utilize proprietary software tools
• Strong understanding of experimental design, crop production, and field research practices.

Other

• Attention to detail.
• Strong Customer Focus.
• Collaborative mindset.
• Ability to focus and work independently with little direction.
• Strong background and knowledge of row crop R&D.

We have a Total Rewards Package at Confluence Genetics that consists of more than just your paycheck. Total Rewards at Confluence Genetics covers Pay (salary and bonus), Health (employer benefit contributions) and Wealth (investments). Some of the perks include:

• A Collaborative Environment
• A flexible PTO program with a focus on work/life balance
• Competitive medical, dental and vision benefits
• Retirement savings plan with a company match
• Education reimbursement
• PAID parental leave
• And more….