Vigor Testing Technologist

JOB SUMMARY: This position provides support to the Vigor Testing department. The primary responsibilities include planting, growing, and evaluating flower and vegetable tests, along with computer-based tasks such as printing tray labels and entering results. The role also supports the Growout Department with sowing, transplanting, and data collection, as needed. Plant care duties include participation in a rotating schedule for weekend and holiday watering.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support all routine departmental activities, including sowing, evaluating, filling/moving trays, watering, transplanting, and data entry for vigor, plug, and growout testing.
• Maintain greenhouse plants with consistent attention to optimal growing conditions throughout the testing cycle.
• Assist the Vigor Testing Manager and Growout Manager with data collection and management for routine tests and special projects.
• Contribute to the development and documentation of new testing protocols.
• Work primarily in greenhouse, field, or laboratory environments.
• Enter seed samples into the LIMS database and assist with test scheduling.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Experience in greenhouse growing and laboratory settings is highly desired.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Comfortable working in agricultural environments, including agricultural chemicals, and in environments with varying temperatures.
• Effective oral and written communication skills; strong organizational abilities.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively, with strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Willingness to learn technical and semi-technical skills.
• Receptive to changing work demands, techniques, or approaches and must have the ability to adapt quickly to new challenges.
• Comfortable performing repetitive tasks for extended periods in greenhouse, field, or lab settings.
• Able to manage stress and meet deadlines in high-demand situations.
• Proficient in data management and computer applications.
• Flexible and open to a wide range of tasks and responsibilities.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and high-pressure conditions.
• Available to work weekends and holidays as needed for plant care.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Associate degree in plant science, horticulture, or related field. Educational requirements may be substituted in part by related work experience. Bachelor’s degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:

• One year of experience in the seed industry or a closely related field is preferred.
• Computer literacy is required.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to work in greenhouse environments with exposure to hot and cold temperatures.
• Willingness to work overtime, including weekends and holidays, and participate in the watering rotation.
• Must be comfortable working with chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers, plant growth regulators, and other potentially irritating substances while using personal protective equipment as required.
• Ability to work in dusty conditions and independently without direct supervision for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift items weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand for long periods.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Salary: $23-$25.50 per hour
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance coverage for employees and their families
• Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
• 401k program with company match
• Profit Sharing program (via 401k)
• Holiday & Performance Incentive Bonus program
• Paid Vacation: 10 days per year to start, increases with tenure
• Sick Leave: 1 hour accrued per 30 hours worked for first 30 days, 6.67 hours per month thereafter.
• 14 paid company holidays, 2 floating holidays & birthday off
• Paid Family Leave: 15 days after 12 months of service for FMLA qualifying events
• Company provided EAP
• Company provided subsidy for health/fitness clubs & apps

*To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty (as described above) satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.