Greenhouse Ops Supervisor - Laboratory of Dr. Wolfgang Busch

The CRoPS project aims to develop crop plants that sequester more carbon via extensive root systems containing recalcitrant carbon polymers to fight climate change. A major component of this research is to grow, test and analyze a variety of plant strains and species.

In conjunction with Greenhouse Grower, the Greenhouse Operations Supervisor will play a lead role in the daily operations of the Encinitas Research Facility.  Together with the Greenhouse Grower, will determine optimal growing conditions for approx. 10 crop species across two buildings.  The Greenhouse Operations Supervisor will monitor the internal conditions within the Greenhouse and adjusts/fixes the LED lights, fertilization system or climate controls as necessary to ensure the plants have the best environment for growing, across research experiments.  This role is responsible for any additional basic facility maintenance and is responsible for managing the preventative maintenance program.

Together with the Greenhouse Grower, the Greenhouse Operations Supervisor maintains environmental standards for agricultural and horticultural production. The Greenhouse Operations Supervisor along with the Greenhouse Grower, is responsible for growing new plants from seeds and tending to the ones that are already there through watering, fertilizing, and protecting them from pests. This role supervises support staff such as Research Assistants and Technicians, including support staff shared with the Field team.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces diverse perspectives and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community comprises a diverse and talented group of individuals, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Supervise growth and care of a variety of crop and plant species
• Fixes/manages fertigation system, climate, and lighting control
• Manages preventative maintenance program
• Responds to growth system alarms and emergencies
• Develops protocols as needed
• Manages indoor growth space and greenhouse resources; plans experimental timelines, resources, and space requirements
• Coordinates experimental requests from HPI scientists and staff, including Phenotyping Senior Scientist
• Supports seed amplification of various crops of interest
• Assists in planting, harvesting, and preparing tissue from plants for further analysis
• In collaboration with Greenhouse Grower, manages and responds to plant pests and diseases
• Support the field program as needed
• Serves as key point of contact for greenhouse production matters, to include various internal departments and external parties, such as facilities resources, utilities, and media relations.
• Orders greenhouse production supplies and manage budget
• Conduct, train and complete experimental trials with upmost safety protocols and compliance to established SOPs
• Ensure greenhouse production operations are compliant with Federal and California environmental regulations, reporting concerns to Salk EH&S as needed
• Determines, assigns, and monitors tasks for assigned production staff
• Oversees work product and provides guidance to staff
• Responsible for personnel-related activities, including but not limited to recruitment and performance management
• Perform high-quality, technically solid, genotyping of transformed lines
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Directly supervises 1 to 10 employees within the
• Carries out supervi