Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is a statewide organization that strives to enable Illinois soybean producers to be the most knowledgeable and profitable soybean producers in the world.

The Agronomy Intern will work directly with the Agronomy Team. Responsibilities include the production of agronomic advice video posted on ILSoyAdvisor.com, on-farm trialing network data collection, assistance with a youth crop scouting competition, assist with ag-retailer conservation trainings, and agenda development for a research field day.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

·         On-farm Trialing Network Data Collection

o   Requires travel to sites around the state of Illinois

o   Rate the field trial sites using soil health indicators

o   Collect management information from the farmer

·         ILSoyAdvisor Agronomy Video Development

o   Create a video advising growers and certified crop advisors on an in-season management issue

o   Choose field location for filming and draft video outline

o   Work with the agronomy team on filming and video editing

·         Ag-Retailer Training

o   Assist The Nature Conservancy and ISA Agronomy team with the development of an ag retailer conservation trialing program.

o   Work with ag retailers to develop plans for conservation trials that will be implemented in fall of 2023

o   Help maintain current trials and collect management data from the retailers

·         Illinois Youth Crop Scouting Competition

o   Assist the ISA Agronomy Team and UIUC Extension with planning the 3rd annual Illinois Youth Crop Scouting Competition

o   Outreach to high school ag teachers encouraging formation of a crop scouting team

o   Assist with designing the challenges for the competition

o   Serve as a judge and event coordinator during the event

·         ISA Research Field Day

o   Work with ISA funded researchers to coordinate a field day at either University of Illinois or Southern Illinois University to showcase ISA funded research and trials.

Competencies

·         Able to work independently or cooperatively with others on a team.

·         Ability to analyze problems, develop a path toward problem solving, and manage the process to completion.

·         Capacity to make decisions and communication with tact and professionalism.

·         Strong multi-tasking skills with a comfort in maintaining multiple, often conflicting priorities.

·         Strong written and oral communications with internal and external audiences.

·         Strong relationship building skills and ability to thrive within a rapidly changing environment.

·         Experience in developing and implementing sponsored, community initiatives.

·         Works well under pressure with an ability to manage multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously.

·         Strong organizational skills, ability to focus both on detail and the larger picture. Exhibits a high level of critical/strategic thinking.

Required Qualifications

·         Sophomore, junior, or senior in college at an accredited university majoring in an agricultural, biological, or environmental science

·         Willingness to travel within the state and potential overnight stay

·         Agriculture background preferred, but not required