Organization Description:

VoloAgri Group, Inc. (VoloAgri) is a global seed company with emphasis on proprietary varieties and intellectual property. We focus on high value hybrid seeds for our existing and target growth markets in fast growing regions of the world including protected production systems.

Job Description:

The Melon and Watermelon Breeder will be responsible for research and development of commercial varieties for the global Melon and Watermelon market.

Responsibilities will include:

• Manage, design, develop, and implement Melon and Watermelon breeding research projects to develop hybrids that will contribute to the commercial success of the company.
• Develop long and short term breeding strategies with focus on specific markets for seed sales of Melon and Watermelons.
• Develop and apply modern technologies of plant breeding by using molecular markers to select and incorporate genes for target traits with traditional breeding methods.
• Design, organize and conduct trial programs in target market zones. Work closely with the regional sales groups to introduce and manage commercial varieties.
• Identify appropriate varieties and make recommendations for advancement and commercialization.
• Create breeding goals to produce new products by translating market requirements and future needs from the marketing and sales team.
• Manage research budget and resources for the Melon and Watermelon breeding.
• Maintain breeder seed of inbreds and parent lines and work closely with the VoloAgri production group for hybrid seed production
• Collaborate with other research team members of the company to exchange ideas, germplasm, data and other items to maximize performance of the team.

This position will report to the Director of Research & Development and the leadership team at VoloAgri. 

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum five years of plant breeding experience after graduation.
• Strong background in plant breeding, genetics, field plot technique and statistical analysis, and molecular marker applications in plant breeding.
• Proven track record in development and release of commercial hybrids.
• Experience in budget and personnel management, including recruitment and development of staff.
• Experience with data management, statistical analysis software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team-based environment with multidisciplinary teams.
• Language skills: Fluent English required, Spanish and or Chinese a plus.
• Experience in an international work environment; ability to deal with various and diverse cultures and work habits.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally.

Education:

• PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Crop Science; minor in Plant Pathology desirable.

Work Authorization: U.S. Work Authorization

Start Date: ASAP

Position: Full time Compensation:

Salary based on experience with a competitive benefits package.

Location: California, USA

Application Instructions:

Please send resume (and brief cover letter).
Apply via Email to jobs@voloagri.com with “Melon and Watermelon Breeder” in the subject line.

VoloAgri Group, Inc. offers competitive compensation, benefits and opportunities for advancement.
VoloAgri Group, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.