Technical Grower
$76,810–$100,000 year
On-siteWatsonville, California, United States
Job Summary
Lead the development of new technologies and oversee agronomy for raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry substrate test plots in the Watsonville area. Manage implementation of advanced irrigation systems, fertility programs, and pest & disease control while gathering monthly water and tissue samples to maintain proper nutrient targets. Direct a team of technicians on daily tasks, long-term planning, and equipment maintenance, and communicate weekly with breeders and researchers on farming duties. Follow operating budgets by tracking and coding expenses, and ensure correct EC, pH, and fertility levels through data analysis and system oversight.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Biology, Agricultural Business, or Agriculture
- 3+ years of experience
- comprehensive understanding of horticulture crops and agronomy
- plant physiology and plant genetics
- Proven ability to manage projects
- Knowledge of the agronomy of horticultural crops from seedling to harvesting
- Ability to work as part of a team and collaborate with other crew members in achieving team goals
- Pesticide Control Advisor (PCA) and Certified Crop Advisor (CCA)
- Experience with research protocols
- knowledge of plant physiology, health and pest pressure assessment
- knowledge of farming operation agricultural practices
- Ability to work in the field, office and corporate settings
- ability to perform repetitive physical work as necessary
- Familiarity of tractors, chemical spray equipment and tasks that involve tractors
- Ability to make fertility and irrigation decisions for berries with minimal guidance
- Contribute to the strategic planning of the research farms and ensure implementation of plans in alignment with plant breeders and applied research
- Develop, design, and implement high-quality processes and improvements in research farms and lead the development of new technologies in the breeding research farms
- Self-starter, hands-on, ability to work independently and work well with teams
- Demonstrated proficiency with computer programs (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Data analysis software
- California Driver's license
- the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program
Desired Qualifications
- Will consider 8+ years of strong technical agricultural experience in lieu of a degree
- Berry production knowledge, including direct experience with soft fruit production
- Bilingual (Spanish/English)
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