MABC Sweet Pepper Breeder Assistant

JOB PURPOSE AND SUMMARY

Assist the sweet pepper breeder and the breeding technology lead in implementing (1) Marker Assisted backcross (MABC) projects for all our vegetable crops (tomato, Pepper, melon and watermelon), (2) sweet pepper breeding in Hollister, CA.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assistant Sweet Pepper Breeder/ Breeding Technology Lead with sowing and transplanting for all the trials.
• Collect leaf samples and submit them to the laboratory for genotyping.
• Collect data using phenome app in the field and the green house.
• Manage and execute all the crosses with assistance from the field crew.
• Assist in seed harvest and seed organization in the storage room.
• Compile/organize genotypic data in phenome and other databases.
• Perform data entry using Microsoft excel in a timely manner.
• Select plants in the field and Greenhouses
• Keep track of the resources used and identify improved and cost-effective processes.
• Work with a marker lab team to complete genotyping project on time when needed.
• Closely collaborate with other team members (breeding, product development, seed health, warehouse manager, marker lab team) to efficiently and timely complete all tasks.
• Operations are maintained in a safe and compliant condition, aligning with company standards and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards, programs and industry codes in accordance with federal, county and state agencies (CCR Title 8, EPA, RCRA, CERCLA, NFPA, and FDA) and regulations. Follow control measures for exposure to hazardous materials or conditions.
• Performs other incidental and related duties as required and assigned.

JOB POSITION DIMENSIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Education Level and Focus: Associate degree in agriculture/plant science or field experience. One to three years of experience in the vegetable seed business.

Skills and Abilities:

Interpersonal and Communication: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others and always maintaining them. The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person and to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.

Technical and Analytical:

Analytical thinking to recognize problems and find solutions to apply the fundamental skills and working knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures necessary for fulfilling responsibilities. Ability to pay attention to detail.

Strong knowledge of excel and the use of formulas.

Physical Demands:

Deal calmly and effectively in a seasonally demanding work environment. Working flexible hours or overtime on short notice may be required. Must be able to work in the office and fields/greenhouses under various ambient conditions, particularly reduced air-quality and in periods of high temperatures possible exceeding 100 degrees F. Must be physically fit to walk, bend, kneel, squat, bend your neck and lift up to 40 lbs.

Work Environment:

Office, outdoors, cages and greenhouse work with temperatures close to 100 degrees, walk on uneven surface and often be exposed to chemicals.