JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for the production and development of commercial crops and stockseed production in assigned geographic areas of the Western Washington.  Main emphasis and goals are to produce 99% marketable seed, research and explore new techniques of seed production and development, work with Growers on crop maintenance and effective field techniques, and to promote new ideas to reach company goals.  Input and maintenance of all information and data regarding crop information into company systems are essential. Other responsibilities and assignments may be asked as well.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILTIES:

• Responsible for coordinating and controlling the scheduling, contracting, insuring of proper isolations, and oversight of growth through harvest for all production in the assigned area.
• Work with Breeders in assigned areas to assist in new product productions
• Aids in sharing and training proper procedures and techniques with the Growers to assure high quality seed production and good Grower relations.
• Applies for necessary field phytosanitary certificates, working with county and state government agencies to insure timely inspections.
• Assist both company and grower during transplanting, planting, and harvest periods in his/her geographic area of responsibility.
• Responsible for rouging crops at the appropriate time and preparing accurate and comprehensive rouging reports.
• Manage scouting crews and schedules to insure accurate and timely monitoring.
• Monitor crops for infestation of insects and diseases and contacting Growers and /or PCA’s regarding any unusual or unacceptable conditions.
• Supervise contract labor crews assigned to fields for sowing, planting, weeding, manipulations, or other jobs as needed.
• Maintain crop records of all fields in a timely manner, including updating crop recipes and grower suggestions annually.
• Maintain complete records of all crop expenses for budget purposes.
• Prepare, maintain, observe, and take good notes on trials for production research.
• Work with the Branch Manager/ Sr. Area Manager to develop annual Budget.  Also responsible for maintaining / reviewing budget and area expenses on a monthly basis.
• Other responsibilities may be assigned at the discretion of the Production Manager.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Must have good computer skills, being able to effectively use Excel, Word, and email for correspondence, along with operating other office machines.
• Must have good communication skills, including both oral and written presentations.
• Experience in operating various types of farm equipment, including tractor driving with a sound understanding of safe equipment operations and maintenance.
• Bi-lingual in Spanish preferred

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 5 years experience in an agricultural field required.
• Minimum of two years of field work experience within the seed industry preferred.

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

• BS Degree in the agricultural field of plant science.
• Courses in pathology and crop physiology desired.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Current and valid Driver’s license required.
• Must obtain a Private Applicator Pesticide License within one year.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to work under different conditions such as extremes of temperature, dampness, rain, dust and sun exposure.
• Must be able to work long and irregular hours during busy seasons.
• Must be able to wear personal protective gear when required.
• Must be able to work with chemicals and other irritating substances.

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

OUR MOTTO:  Quality – Reliability – Service 

CORPORATE MISSION:  To contribute to the betterment of life and culture of the people around the world, with values created through our innovative flower and vegetable varieties.

Sakata Seed America, a subsidiary of Sakata Seed Corporation located in Yokohama, Japan, was established in 1977.  We are headquartered in Morgan Hill, California and have facilities around the U.S. and in Mexico and Guatemala.

Sakata is a world leader in breeding and producing vegetable and ornamental seed and vegetative cuttings.  Sakata breeders around the world work diligently to develop varieties that offer superior performance and set new standards for the industry.

2013 marked our centennial year.  We are proud to have joined the ranks of those few companies that have had the honor of celebrating this milestone.  

Check out our LinkedIN company pages and our website to get more information about our company, our culture, our commitment to social responsibility, and our fabulous benefits!

Send resume to:

HR Department
Sakata Seed America, Inc.
18095 Serene Drive
Morgan Hill, CA 95037

E-mail to: hr@sakata.com

Fax to: 408-779-4398

Sakata is an equal opportunity employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce.