Operations Associate II
Bayer
Summary
The Operations Associate II is responsible for executing daily operations that support North America Plant Breeding Research and Development efforts while serving as a key member of the site's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. This role works closely with Greenhouse Operations, Site Leadership, and the IPM team to safely and efficiently execute greenhouse operations, pesticide applications, scouting activities, data management, compliance programs, and crop production support activities.
Job description
Key Responsibilities
Greenhouse Operations & Research Support
- Execute daily greenhouse and research operations in support of breeding and R&D objectives
- Organize and execute research protocols and operational plans aligned with site priorities
- Support planting, irrigation, crop protection, land preparation, harvest, and other production activities as needed
- Operate research and greenhouse equipment while ensuring safe and efficient utilization
- Maintain accurate records, notes, and operational data within enterprise systems and greenhouse control platforms
- Support implementation of innovative technologies, tools, and methodologies that improve operational efficiency and research outcomes
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Support all components of the site IPM program under the guidance of the IPM Guide
- Conduct routine greenhouse scouting and monitoring of pest and disease pressures
- Collect and maintain accurate scouting records and agronomic observations
- Safely prepare, mix, load, and apply pesticides according to prescribed programs
- Perform spray spot treatments and other crop protection activities as required
- Ensure timely communication and documentation of pesticide applications in accordance with regulatory and internal standards
- Maintain pesticide inventories, storage areas, and waste management processes
- Adhere to all integrated pest management protocols and procedures
Equipment, Operation & Maintenance
- Operate pesticide application equipment, greenhouse automation systems, and other operational machinery
- Perform basic troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and mechanical repairs on greenhouse equipment and operating systems
- Support operational reliability initiatives through proactive maintenance and system monitoring
- Utilize digital technologies and operational software platforms to support decision making and workflow execution
Safety, Compliance & Quality
- Maintain compliance with all Bayer HSE, QA/QC, OSHA, WPS, RCRA, FIFRA, state, and federal regulatory requirements
- Participate in and support safety inspections, audits, and compliance programs
- Complete and support required SOP, equipment operation, safety, and compliance training programs
- Ensure work is performed in a manner that supports site quality metrics, operational efficiency, and cost effectiveness
- Promote a culture of safety, stewardship, and continuous improvement across all operations
Leadership & Collaboration
- Build strong working relationships across Greenhouse Operations, Breeding, Agronomy, Field Operations, Site Leadership, and IPM teams
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to achieve operational and research objectives
- Train and mentor team members and seasonal employees on operational procedures, equipment operation, and safety practices
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and actively contribute to innovation initiatives
- Support project execution and coordinate activities to ensure successful delivery of operational goals
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Prior work-related experience in agriculture, supply chain, manufacturing
- Arizona Department of Agriculture Private Pesticide Applicator License, or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire
- Ability to work extended hours during peak operational seasons
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Proficiency with computers, mobile devices, Microsoft Office applications, and data management systems
- Ability to prioritize work and operate effectively with limited supervision
- Demonstrated ability to work successfully within a diverse team environment
- Bachelor's degree preferred
- Preferred disciplines: Agriculture, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Business, Engineering
- With Bachelor's degree, 3+ years' work-related experience in agriculture, supply chain, manufacturing and, in lieu of degree, 6+ years' work-related experience in agriculture, supply chain, manufacturing
- Experience with greenhouse operations, crop production, or agricultural research environments
- Knowledge of pesticide regulations including WPS, RCRA, and FIFRA
- Experience with greenhouse automation systems, precision agriculture technologies, and data collection platforms
- Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills
- Demonstrated success implementing continuous improvement initiatives
- Experience working on collaborative cross-functional project teams
Benefits
- Health care
- Vision
- Dental
- Retirement
- Paid time off
- Sick leave
- Domestic relocation may be provided
Company overview
Bayer AG is a global life science company with core competencies in healthcare and agriculture, operating as one of the world's leading pharmaceutical corporations. Founded in 1863 and headquartered in Leverkusen, Germany, Bayer operates through three primary divisions: Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health, and Crop Science. The company's pharmaceutical segment focuses on prescription products for cardiology, women's healthcare, oncology, hematology, and ophthalmology, with blockbuster drugs including Xarelto, Eylea, and Nubeqa. Bayer's Consumer Health division markets well-known over-the-counter brands such as Aspirin, Aleve, Claritin, and Bepanthen. The Crop Science division, strengthened by the acquisition of Monsanto, provides seeds, crop protection products, and digital farming solutions. With approximately 92,815 employees worldwide and operations in 80 countries, Bayer is committed to its mission of "Health for all, Hunger for none," driving innovation in medical treatments, agricultural productivity, and sustainable development. The company maintains a strong research and development pipeline, investing heavily in areas like precision medicine, artificial intelligence applications in healthcare, and sustainable agricultural technologies.