Agronomy Shift Lead (Lab Operations/Team Lead)

Role DescriptionWe are hiring an Agronomy Shift Lead to help manage daily operations in a fast-paced agricultural laboratory. This role is ideal for someone with experience in production, manufacturing, or lab operations, who is ready to step into a hands-on supervisory position. You will play a key role in ensuring smooth workflow, maintaining quality standards, and supporting seasonal staff during peak soil and plant tissue testing seasons.Key ResponsibilitiesSupervise and coordinate soil sample intake operations (spring & fall), including: -Receiving, organizing, and tracking incoming samples -Operating and loading drying ovens -Assigning and staging samples for processing -Troubleshooting data entry issues to prevent workflow delays -Scanning and labeling submission sheetsLead plant tissue sample processing (summer), including: -Intake, labeling, chopping, and drying samplesProvide leadership across multiple lab areas, including: -Sample preparation and processing workflows -Supporting and directing seasonal employeesStep into critical lab roles (e.g., grinding, extraction) as neededMaintain high standards for accuracy, efficiency, and turnaround timeSchedulePeak Seasons: 50–60 hours/week (spring, summer, fall)Off-Season: 30–40 hours/weekOvertime available and expected during busy periods Pay & BenefitsStarting Pay: $20/hourOvertime Pay: 1.5x hourly rate (100–150 hours/year typical) Benefits Include:Health, dental, vision, retirement savings, and morePaid time off (PTO)Paid holidaysStable, year-round employment with seasonal varietyHands-on training and skill developmentTeam-oriented work environmentRequirementsExperience in production, manufacturing, lab operations, agriculture, or food service leadership preferredStrong organizational and problem-solving skillsAbility to work independently and lead a teamComfortable working in a fast-paced, physically active environmentAbility to lift 40 lbs.Willingness to work extended hours during peak seasonsCollege degree is a plus, but not requiredPreferred Skills Team leadership / shift supervisionProduction or operations managementQuality control and process improvementData entry and workflow coordinationAgricultural or lab experience (a plus)Why Join Us? Be part of a growing agricultural operation with increasing year-round demandGain leadership experience in a critical industryWork in a role where your impact is visible and valuedBuild a long-term career with advancement potentialCompany DescriptionRock River Laboratory is dedicated to serving the agriculture and analysis industries by providing laboratory testing and data analysis for feedstuffs, soil, plant tissue, manure, and water. With nearly fifty years of experience, our commitment to customer service and innovation has made us a trusted partner for farmers, nutritionists, agronomists, and industry experts. We focus on equipping our diverse clients with the tools and insights needed to achieve successful outcomes. Guided by progress and customer-centric values, we continuously develop and offer products and services designed to meet the evolving needs of those we serve.