Product Development Specialist

WHO WE ARE

GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the most advanced and high‑performing seed varieties to the market, creating new growth opportunities for our partners and for the future of agribusiness.

Our North America portfolio includes leading brands like AgriGold, DONMARIO, Mustang, PRIDE Seeds, Revere, and Virtue, supported by a network of research superstations, one of the largest corn genetic pools and the fourth-largest corn research program. Through our combined expertise, we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, delivering top-tier seed solutions to help farmers grow and succeed. GDM's region-first brand model reinforces the company's long-standing promise to deliver top-performing genetics and robust agronomic support - ensuring farmers have the right genetics, in the right place, at the right time.

OUR DNA

We are passionate about what we do and driven by curiosity. We believe that learning and innovation are the foundation for transforming the future of agriculture. Our focus is on cutting‑edge genetic development, creating solutions that make a difference in the field and in the global market.

Our DNA not only guides us but also connects us: we work with empathy, transparency, and respect, ensuring agile and flexible operations. Here, you are the protagonist of your career, because we believe every individual plays an essential role in building something greater.

If you are passionate about learning and want to be part of evolving agriculture, GDM is the right place for you!

We are proud to offer a competitive benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match (eligible 1st of the month following date of hire)
• Generous vacation time & paid holidays
• Volunteer Time Off
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition and Health Club reimbursement
• Other benefits: Company paid Long-term and short-term disability insurance, company paid life insurance and optional supplemental life insurance, health savings account (HSA) with a company contribution and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Job Summary:

The Product Development Specialist is responsible for the evaluation, interpretation, and advancement of pre-commercial corn products using multi-location trial data, agronomic insight, and structured decision frameworks. This role serves as the critical link between research and commercial product teams ensuring competitive, locally relevant, and commercially viable products advance toward launch. This position covers a territory that includes Rochester, Minnesota, Rockford, IL, Davenport, IA, Davenport, IA, Waterloo, IA, and Madison, WI.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Manage and evaluate corn Pre-Commercial Research (PCR) trials and seed treatment trials
• Lead PCR trial footprint planning by identifying suitable testing locations and coordinating with third‑party collaborators to support sales teams with strategic footprint testing
• Organize pre-commercial trial entry lists
• Evaluate precommercial hybrids and trial conditions by collecting agronomic data from emergence through harvest in assigned territory
• Coordinate and lead PCR Demo tours tailored to internal Agronomy and Licensing and Distribution (L&D) partners
• Perform data QA/QC and interpret agronomic and performance data to ensure accuracy, identify trends, and generate insights that inform hybrid advancement decisions and trial management
• Utilize product needs assessments from Brand Product Managers and research teams to support selection, advancement, and deployment decisions
• Generate data packages for assigned maturities to support product selection process of Brands and Licensing
• Drive product demand by leveraging technical leadership during product rollouts and forecasting processes
• Participate in Research pipeline needs and earlier stage advancement to PCR
• Develop and maintain cross‑functional partnerships with Breeding, Operations & Testing, Agronomy, and BPM to ensure alignment, information flow, and execution of precommercial testing objectives
• Facilitate product training and agronomic support for internal Licensing and Distribution Account Managers
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Previous experience managing trials in computer-based program
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication skills with focus on relationship building
• Ability to build trust and influence stakeholders

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field
• Five (5) or more years of industry experience preferred
• Certified Crop Advisor certification desired
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate desired
• Must have a valid Driver's license and eligibility to drive a company car

Physical Requirements:

• Periods of driving between field locations or sitting to perform computer work
• Periods of working outside in all types of weather conditions
• Must be able to lift 50+ lbs of shifting weight (seed bags)
• Frequent travel during the growing season with a mix of overnight and day travel (around 3 nights a week)

GDM is an equal opportunity employer. We are proud to welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage you to apply.

Learn more about us at gdmseeds.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @GDMSeeds.