Research Farm Technician II – Gilroy, California

Department: Research Operations

Position Title: Research Farm Technician Level II – Full Time Position

Reports To / Supervisor

Direct Supervisor: Greenhouse and Farm Supervisor

Purpose

At Vilmorin-Mikado (a business unit of Limagrain), you will contribute to the successful development of new vegetable crop varieties that nourish our communities. Within this role, you will be responsible for providing support to research activities at your supervisor’s direction according to your competencies within the functions listed below.

Primary Functions

 Greenhouse and Seed Activities

• Conduct plant maintenance including planting, transplanting, cuttings, cleaning growth area, tying plants to stakes, and watering plants
• Manage seed harvesting including the harvest of cross-pollinated plants, single plant selections, and bulk seed increases
• Maintain a clean and well organized work station, greenhouse and keep documentation on activities as need (as an example: crossing list and seed packet documentation)
• Conduct pollination of lettuce, greens, onion, and brassica plants as directed by the supervisor
• Clean seed of cross-pollinated plants, single plant selections, and bulk seed increases in a timely manner
• Chemical application as directed by our licensed supervisor using handheld and powered equipment according to competencies and training
• Fertilization and irrigation of plants as instructed by the Supervisor
• Implementation of phytosanitary practices including pest scouting, zone enforcement, pathogen testing and related activities
• Maintain irrigation system and tools necessary for the successful completion of work
• Other duties as assigned 

Equipment Management

• Equipment preventative maintenance and inspection for dosatrons, fans, tractors, implements, and related greenhouse and farm materials
• Tractor and heavy equipment routine inspection

Farm Activities

• Manage vegetable crops in small scale field research trials
• Support sowings, thinning, cultivation, weeding, and other activities as needed
• Conduct seed harvest and threshing of plant materials
• Irrigation work including moving pipes, setting up irrigation equipment, and maintaining drip lines and valves
• Maintenance of facilities including cages, structures, workspaces, and other areas
• Maintenance of work tools and materials
• Conduct tractor work including discing, chiseling, bed lifting, bed shaping, and lillistoning according to competencies and training
• Chemical application as directed by our licensed supervisor using handheld and tractor equipment according to competencies and training
• Implementation of phytosanitary practices including pest scouting, zone enforcement, and related activities
• Fertilization and irrigation of plants as instructed by the Supervisor
• Forklift and other equipment operation

Expectations

• Good attendance and punctuality
• Willingness to occasionally work extended hours and weekends
• Commitment to follow office and work site safety procedures
• Ability to work well with peers and maintain a positive attitude
• Maintain a professional conduct
• Good organization skills and ability to prioritize work
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to complete work with minimal supervision and to perform tasks with accuracy
• Keep strong self-motivation and initiative

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Associates degree preferred
• Clean driving record
• Bi-lingual a plus
• Ability to wear and use full face respirator (if required)
• Computer skills

Salary: $18 – $23 / Hourly