Classification: Exempt

Reports to: Global Director R&D – Solanaceae Crops

Date: 3/20/2017

Location: Woodland, CA

Summary:

In accordance with the business strategy defined by the Director of R&D – Solanaceae Crops, the Breeder I, Peppers will define and execute the breeding methodology for peppers to create innovative and competitive varieties for assigned target markets. The Breeder I, Peppers provides the company with new peppers varieties in his/her target market segments by searching for the appropriate genetic resources and implementing the best technologies and methods in available markets.

Essential Functions:

• Under the direction of VoloAgri Director of R&D - Solanaceae Crops, define the breeding strategy and develop a genetic improvement program to create new and original varieties in line with market needs.
• Coordinate the implementation of a competitive breeding program through a network of breeding stations and screening sites, and leveraging current research technologies.
• Undertake objective phenotyping of genetic material placed in the different targeted markets and analyze results using statistical tools.
• Ensure the provision of uniform and stable basic seed.
• Maximize collaboration with VoloAgri breeding team for trait exploitation, germplasm development and technology deployment
• Optimize the use of all resources allocated to the breeding program(s): human, technical, budget
• Remain abreast of scientific and technological developments in field of expertise, and monitor the position of competitor’s products.

Supervisory Responsibility

No supervisory responsibility

Work Environment

Ability to work in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings including but not limited to: farm fields; packing houses; greenhouses; growth chambers, labs and office areas. Exposure to seasonal high temperature.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Regularly required to talk and hear
• Active position requiring standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crouching.
• Ability to lift and/or transport items over 50 pounds.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, 40 hours per week. The position requires the ability to work extended hours during peak planting, pollination, harvesting and seed extraction season in accordance to business needs.

Travel

Must be available for frequent travel within the United States, and abroad.

Required Education and Experience

• MS in Plant Breeding or genetics and at least 5 years of experience in plant breeding
• In depth working knowledge of horticulture, agronomy, genetics, pathology, statistics, physiology and molecular genetics
• Expertise in population development, planning of phenotypic designs and evaluations as well as data management and analysis
• English language fluency, both written and verbal is a must
• Good ability to translate customer’s challenges and requirements into novel genetic solutions
• Good Communication skills, ability to communicate and collaborate with colleagues in different levels and disciplines
• Team player with a positive attitude, and the ability to facilitate teamwork among colleagues and staff
• Accept personal responsibility for task fulfillment and job performance. Ability to disclose any mistakes made, with the awareness of the consequences of making mistakes, and the threat any mistake may pose to the breeding program
• Highly self-motivated individual, with a high level of time management and organizational skills
• Flexibility, as to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Ability and willingness to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions.

Preferred Education and Experience

• MS in Plant Breeding or genetics and at least 5 years of experience in plant breeding; Ph.D. Preferred.
• Spanish language proficiency a plus

Work Authorization

Must provide proof of authorization to work in the United States

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

VoloAgri Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Medical & Dental, and Vision Plans
• Section 125 Dependent Care plans
• 401(k) Plan
• Vacation, sick and holiday time off