Cultivation Research Genetics Associate

At Curaleaf, we’re redefining the cannabis industry with a strong commitment to quality, expertise, and innovation. As a leading global cannabis provider, our brands—including Curaleaf, Select, and Grassroots—offer premium products and services in both medical and adult-use markets.

Join us at Curaleaf to be part of a high-growth, purpose-driven company that champions corporate social responsibility through our Rooted in Good initiative, supporting community outreach and positive change. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, drive innovation, and help shape the future of cannabis.

Title: Cultivation Associate 
Pay Range: $17
Location: Chambersburg, PA
Job Type: Full Time | Non-Exempt 
Shift: Monday - Friday, 7:15 am - 3:45 pm 

 

Who You Are: You’re passionate about cannabis science and curious about how plants work at the cellular level. You have hands-on experience with cultivation, tissue culture, or micropropagation and are eager to expand your skills in genetic research and plant development. You’re precise, organized, and comfortable working in a controlled lab-based environment where attention to detail and data accuracy are key. What You’ll Do: As a Cultivation Research Genetics Associate at Curaleaf’s Research & Development facility, you’ll contribute to our cutting-edge genetics program — working to advance plant performance, consistency, and innovation. This role blends lab and cultivation responsibilities, supporting projects focused on cellular genetics, tissue culture, and strain development. Your day will include:

• Supporting genetic and cellular research, including micropropagation, tissue culture, and cellular sample preservation
• Performing audits on cellular samples to ensure quality, accuracy, and data integrity
• Maintaining detailed records of genetic trials, cell lines, and environmental conditions
• Assisting with propagation, growth trials, and phenotype tracking as part of the genetics program
• Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, including microscopes, cryogenic storage systems, and sterilization tools
• Following aseptic techniques and maintaining clean lab environments to prevent contamination
• Collaborating with cultivation and R&D teams to connect lab-based findings with live plant trials
• Accurately labeling and tracking plant materials and samples in accordance with state compliance regulations
• Pitching in during high-demand periods to support broader cultivation or processing projects as needed

What You’ll Bring:

• A strong passion for cannabis genetics, biology, or plant science
• Prior experience with plant micropropagation, cellular analysis, or laboratory procedures
• Understanding of sterile technique, sample handling, and controlled-environment workflows
• Flexibility to work across both North and Central Phoenix facilities as needed
• Sharp attention to detail with a focus on precision, cleanliness, and documentation
• Reliability, organization, and time management skills to balance multiple ongoing projects
• A high school diploma or GED required; coursework in biology, horticulture, plant science, or biotechnology preferred

Even Better If:

• You have direct experience with cannabis tissue culture or genetic preservation
• You’ve worked in a plant science or biotech lab supporting genetic research or quality control
• You bring knowledge of plant physiology, breeding, and advanced cultivation techniques

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods (8–10 hours per shift)
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds with or without assistance
• Frequent bending, squatting, and reaching
• Fine motor skills and steady hand-eye coordination for lab work
• Use of PPE including lab coats, gloves, masks, hair nets, and non-slip shoes

Environmental Conditions:

• Lab and cultivation environments with controlled temperature and humidity
• Exposure to cleaning solvents, isopropyl alcohol, and lab sterilization materials
• Possible exposure to strong odors (such as cannabis)
• Bright lighting and equipment noise typical of lab or production settings

 

Curaleaf Pay Transparency$17—$17 USD

What We Offer:

• Career Growth Opportunities
• Competitive Pay and Benefits