Field Research Assistant

The Field Research Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting small plot research activities as part of the Field Sciences team, primarily working at remote locations across Iowa with a base around Des Moines, IA. The Research Assistant will collaborate with CHRD field scientists to achieve technical objectives set by the Field Sciences Biology Program leaders, while adhering to company stewardship guidelines. Responsibilities include managing trial establishment and assisting with field and laboratory data collection, as well as insect and pathogen rearing and collection. The role is based at the Johnston RD Center with occasional travel to support other scientists in the region.

• Assist in all small plot research activities as part of the Field Sciences team.
• Provide support to CHRD field scientists in line with technical objectives.
• Manage trial establishment and field data collection.
• Conduct laboratory data collection, including insect and pathogen rearing and collection.
• Ensure all activities comply with pertinent company stewardship guidelines.
• Travel occasionally to assist other scientists within the region.

• Minimum of a B.S. degree in an agricultural-related field.
• 2-5 years of agricultural experience, focusing on Mid-Western field crops like corn and soybean.
• Broad understanding of agronomy and leadership in establishing and maintaining agronomic crops.
• Knowledge of production practices, including land preparation, irrigation, fertilization, and pest management.
• Experience with production equipment such as tractors, irrigation systems, tillage, planting, spraying, and harvesting equipment.

• Background in biology, agriculture, animal science, or environmental science.

The work environment is typically Monday through Friday, during the first shift. The role requires working at remote locations in Iowa, with a base around Des Moines, IA, and occasional travel to support other scientists within the region.

This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Johnston,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 3, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $25