Sunflower Parental Characterization Coordinator

About the role

Syngenta Seeds Field Crops is looking for a Sunflower Parental Characterization Coordinator in Hungary. As the key technical expert for parental line characterization and seed production research for corn and sunflower, you will build and validate Regional Production Instructions, manage agronomic trials and support Seed Production Planning (SPP) inputs across EAME. The position is based in Budapest or Mezőtúr with frequent travel.

Key responsibilities

• Lead sunflower parental characterization in Europe, including analysis of line potential and genetic x environment interaction
• Manage SPP inputs (yield, MVK/ha, recovery rate, TKW, COGS per unit, supply reliability, allocation recommendation) and production instructions (planting delay, density, ratio, harvest management)
• Propose SPR programs for each country and ensure correct execution of trials, lab analyses and sample processing
• Design experiments and protocols, validate reports and statistical analyses, and contribute to regional budget submissions
• Set up a representative trial network via subcontractors and Syngenta R&D, supervise trial operations and deliver stage 4 recommendations to breeders
• Support the Hungarian production team with SPP inputs and protocols, follow up implementation and analyse performance after the season
• Manage technical and technological projects, including field experiments (density, herbicide, maturation, experimental plots) and new technologies such as phenotyping and imagery
• Manage SPR Hungarian administration and reporting, and coordinate the seasonal team and trial subcontractors
• Report monthly to the Operations Lead Europe on activity and project status

Required profile

• Degree in Agronomy, Biology or Plant Science with a strong seeds business background
• Minimum 4 years in seed production and field experimentation
• Proven experience managing complex technical projects, preferably in cross-functional settings (P&S, R&D, CP)
• Experience working independently in a matrix organization and leadership experience with operational teams
• Fluent English, results-oriented, self-organized and committed to HSE and quality standards

Required skills

• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint), database management and statistics
• Understanding of crop and trial management, plant breeding principles and seed production processes

What we offer

• A supportive environment with professional growth and work-life balance
• Benefits package tailored to location, learning and development, wellness programs and employee assistance programs