Precision Application Systems Lead

Position TitlePrecision Application Systems LeadJob GroupProfessional & ScientificRequired Minimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree and 8 years related experienceJob DescriptionBuild the Future of AgricultureIf you want your work to matter beyond the lab - on real equipment, in real farm fields, with measurable impact - this is the role for you.Who We AreThe Digital Ag Innovation Lab at Iowa State University partners with leading agricultural companies to design, build, and deploy next-generation technologies for agriculture. Our team works at the intersection of applied engineering, industry collaboration, and the land-grant mission, moving ideas from concept to prototype to field deployment.Our vision is bold: to be the premiere thought leader and partner in ag innovation.Our mission guides everything we do: Innovate. Educate. Outreach.We innovate with partners to create technology solutions that drive value into agriculture and our communities.We educate to inspire and develop students and professionals to ensure a thriving workforce that drives success within our industry. We outreach to share knowledge with farmers and ag businesses and promote practices that enhance their success. We operate with four core values: Passion. Innovation. Collaboration. Excellence.This is a place for builders, problem-solvers, and systems thinkers who want their work to move from idea → prototype → field → industry adoption.The OpportunityWe are seeking Precision Application Systems Lead to drive the development, testing, and validation of agricultural application systems across ground and aerial platforms. This role focuses on liquid and dry product delivery, including spraying, fertilization, and targeted application technologies.You will lead hands-on efforts to evaluate system performance, integrate emerging technologies, and deliver solutions that improve application accuracy and agronomic outcomes. This role works across engineering and agronomy to bring practical, field-ready systems to industry partners.What You'll DoLead development, testing, and validation of application systems (spray, fertilizer, targeted delivery)Define performance requirements and execute lab and field-testing programsEvaluate components and system performance (e.g., nozzles, pumps, flow control, PWM)Analyze data to link system performance with agronomic outcomesAdvance targeted, variable-rate, and drone-based application technologiesCollaborate with industry partners to define scope and deliver resultsLead and mentor technical teams supporting lab and field workManage program timelines, budgets, and sponsor deliverablesWhat You BringExperience with agricultural application systems (liquid and/or dry)Strong understanding of spray systems and performance drivers (droplet size, pressure, flow, speed)Experience with field trials, lab testing, or system benchmarkingAbility to connect engineering performance to agronomic outcomesExperience leading teams and working with industry partnersExperience managing technical projects or programsTechnology & Systems You May Work WithSpray systems, nozzles, pumps, and flow control (including PWM)Targeted and variable-rate application technologiesDrone and aerial application systemsLab and field-testing platformsAgricultural equipment and precision application systemsPreferred QualificationsAdvanced degree in agricultural engineering, agronomy, or related field, or equivalent industry experience.Background in application technology, product support, field engineering, or technical service within agriculture, OEMs, or ag input companies.Experience conducting field trials, in-field testing, or performance benchmarking of application systems.Experience defining technical requirements, planning test programs, and managing work across cross-functional projects and teams.Ability to connect engineering parameters (e.g., pressure, droplet size, duty cycle, travel speed) to biological efficacy and input-use efficiency.Experience leading or mentoring cross-functional teams in lab and field environments.Follow us here: www.isudigitalag.org.Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.The candidate will be hired as an R&D Engineer IV. This position will be open until filled.Application InstructionsTo apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:Resume/Curriculum VitaeLetter of Application/Cover LetterWhy Choose Iowa State University?Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plansGenerous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plansOnsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)Life insurance and long-term disabilityFlexible Spending AccountsVarious voluntary benefits and discountsEmployee Assistance ProgramWellbeing programIf you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.Appointment TypeRegular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date Or Length Of TermMay 31, 2029Number Of Months Employed Per Year12 Month Work PeriodTime TypeFull timePay GradePS813Original Posting DateApril 28, 2026Posting Close DateJob Requisition Number:R19079Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.