What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research And Development Technician position at BrightFarms?
BrightFarms is The Place to Grow!
At BrightFarms, we’re on a mission to revolutionize the way leafy greens are grown. But we don’t just want to grow great tasting greens, we want them to do good as well: for the planet, for the health of people, and for the well-being of our employees. We give BrightFarmers the tools, training, support, and opportunities they need to do better for themselves and the world every day. Because when you do good for your people, they do good for the world.
BrightFarms is a national leader in the booming indoor farming industry, transforming how produce is grown and delivered with its expanding network of eight high-tech, sustainable hydroponic farms. From seed to leaf we grow lettuce smarter, with less space, no pesticides and protected inside, so it’s better for the planet and way better for humans. BrightFarms' fresh lettuce options, from classic greens to crunchy mixes and salad kits, are available in more than 4,500 retail stores across the East Coast, Midwest, and South.
We are looking for an organized and motivated Lab Technician to provide critical support our R&D Lab. This hands-on role is essential for maintaining the quality and consistency of our testing programs, ensuring timely and accurate data collection to drive product and research decisions. As a Lab Technician, you’ll play a key role in executing standardized protocols related to seed germination, shelf-life, and quality assessments of hydroponically grown leafy greens. You will also be responsible for managing sample seed inventory and logistics. You'll work closely with scientists and product development specialists to ensure experiments are conducted efficiently and data is captured with precision.
Specifically, you will:
- Prepare materials, equipment, and workspaces for daily lab activities
- Execute standardized germination tests, post-harvest quality assessments, shelf-life, and sensory evaluations
- Report results to BF stakeholders
- Conduct small-scale experiments in growth chambers
- Record data accurately, maintain logs, and ensure high data integrity
- Responsible for sample seed inventory management and logistics
- Assist with maintaining and calibrating lab equipment as needed
- Follow SOPs and support the development or revision of protocols
- Organize samples, label materials, and maintain cleanliness and organization in lab spaces
- Support inventory management of lab supplies and consumables
- Collaborate with R&D scientists on trial logistics and sample tracking
- Maintain compliance with safety and sanitation protocols
The ideal candidate:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Biology, Horticulture, Food Science, or a related field, or equivalent lab experience
- 1–2 years of lab or research experience, preferably in a plant, seed, or food-related lab
- Strong attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills
- Comfortable with repetitive tasks and routine testing procedures
- Basic understanding of lab safety and handling of biological materials
- Proficient in Excel or similar data entry tools; knowledge of experimental design is a plus
- Ability to follow directions, communicate clearly, and work effectively as part of a team
- Lifting to 25 pounds, working under different conditions of high and low temperatures
