About the Opportunity

***Onsite role in Tracy, California***

The Research Associate I - Blueberry Breeding role supports the High Chill Blueberry Breeder in the successful execution of the breeding trials in Tracy, CA. Responsibilities include data collection and management, post-harvest fruit quality assessments, phenotyping data collection, test-plot logistics, collaboration with the Farm personnel to ensure proper maintenance of the trials, and execution and summarization of research projects as directed by breeder.

In addition, this position will assist in the identification of improved plant cultivars and the commercialization of these cultivars under the direction of the breeding department. In partnership with the blueberry breeder, the Research Associate will be asked to be an active participant in the global breeding circles for blueberry breeding.

 

Responsibilities

•    Responsible for phenotyping blueberry test plot and seedling populations in the field as directed by the breeder.
•    Responsible for accurate and timely data entry of phenotypic data.
•    Assist in test plot logistics: Plant mapping, labeling, plant movement, and other tasks as needed.
•    Using good judgment and discretion, responsible for identifying abnormalities that require further research when analyzing data points.
•    Work as part of the blueberry breeding team to conduct independent evaluations of seedlings and selections for traits, including field ratings, yield, shelf life, flavor, and other traits.
•    Works with the farming team to ensure trial and plant maintenance is executed.
•    Provide input as required for the preparation of the annual Blueberry Breeding Program update/report.
•    Act as a team member for the Blueberry Breeding Group. Frequently consult and provide input to the High Chill breeder and other scientists of the Blueberry Breeding Team.

   

Candidate Profile

•    Bachelor of Science in Plant Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field.
•    Be able to work in a research lab, commercial cooler, and an outdoor field environment where temperatures and conditions can be variable, this includes the ability to perform physical work in the field.
•    Must have strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with other team members.
•    Must be self-motivated and have the ability to work independently with minimal instruction.
•    Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods of time.
•    Have flexibility in working hours, especially during the fruiting season. 
•    Ability to exercise flexibility, initiative, good judgment and discretion.
•    Have reliable transportation to work location.
•    California driver’s license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program for regular travel within California.
•    Research and analytical skills sufficient to analyze problems in a multi- faceted way and to develop and participate in implementing solutions.
Preferred Qualifications

•    Spanish language is a plus.
•    A valid passport and the ability to travel internationally and domestically without restrictions.
•    Hands-on experience in Plant Breeding, Plant Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field is desired.
•    Data analysis experience is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

The following information is provided in good faith as a general description of the salary range and benefits for the position posted. The actual compensation offered to the successful candidate is dependent upon experience, skills, education, work location, internal pay equity, and other objective job-related factors.

Salary Range estimated for the Research Associate I – Blueberry Breeding role: $70,310.00/year to $81,840.00/year.

Driscoll’s is committed to a culture of care and offers an attractive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, and disability coverage for positions working more than 30 hours per week. Other benefits include: 401(k) with employer match, profit-sharing participation, paid sick time, paid vacation, paid personal and family care leave, and a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP). More detailed information regarding the benefits package, will be shared during the application process.
 

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