WCI is a federally registered not-for-profit organization established on April 1, 2024. Building on the rich history of the Field Crop Development Centre, WCI has been a leader in developing high-yielding, climate- and disease-resistant cereal grain varieties since 1973. Operating from a state-of-the-art lab and research farm in Lacombe, AB, WCI is dedicated to delivering innovative agricultural solutions for producers across Alberta, the Canadian prairies, and beyond.

Join our team as a Seasonal Research Assistant (6 month term role). This position is an integral part of a dynamic team supporting cereal crop research at Western Crop Innovations in Lacombe, AB. Under the guidance of senior technical staff, the role provides essential support to breeding programs, assisting in the identification and advancement of elite materials within a field-based research program. While the primary focus of the position is on field research operations that directly support the breeding programs, the role also contributes to multidisciplinary research teams at the Centre, offering general support across all areas.

Job Type: This is a full-time role (36.25 hrs per week) for 6 months (May 1 to October 31, 2025) working onsite in Lacombe.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Support plot planting operations ensuring accurate and efficient planting of research trials.
• Assist senior technical staff in note taking and data collection, with the ability to work independently.
• Assist with the purification of breeding nurseries by identifying and removing variants from the research trial plots.
• Maintain trials through mowing, weeding, etc. and provide support for site field tours.
• Provide support to harvest operations, assisting with combine crews, and operation of binding and stationary threshing equipment. Other harvest methods used will be cutting of plant material and individual head selection.
• Assist with the weighing, cleaning, and laboratory testing of harvested research trials.
• Provide general support to all areas of the cereal breeding program.

Other duties as required.

Experience and qualifications:

• A minimum of a 2-year diploma in Agriculture, a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience with operating small-horsepower tractors, mowers, and plot maintenance equipment is preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying environmental conditions, including exposure to noise, grain dust, and pollen, while lifting up to 50 lbs for extended periods, especially during harvest.
• Strong teamwork skills with the ability to follow established protocols set by senior technical and scientific staff and seek clarification when necessary.
• Proficient in using computers for data collection and entry.
• Strong attention to detail with a keen ability to remain focused while performing repetitive tasks.
• Commitment to following safe work practices and procedures.
• A valid Class 5 drivers license is required.
• Some work outside of regular operating hours may be required.
• Must be able to frequently travel by car during the workday between the office and the farm.
• Must respect and actively promote health and safety policies.

What we offer:

• Hourly rate of $20 - $22/hour depending on education and experience, PLUS 4% vacation pay paid out each pay period.

Western Crop Innovations supports a diverse and inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. You must be legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.