Breeder Assistant - Yuma, Arizona
3 days ago
Yuma
Company Description American Takii Inc. is a renowned breeder and producer of vegetable and flower seeds, with our U.S. headquarters are based in Salinas, California. Our company is committed to providing high-quality seeds to meet the diverse needs of our customers. American Takii Inc was established in 1982 and is a subsidiary of Takii & Company, LTD, a privately held company that has been based in Kyoto, Japan since 1835. Takii is one of the world’s largest breeder/producers of flower and vegetable seeds, with breeding and experimental stations in Japan, and international subsidiaries located in the United States, the Netherlands, Brazil, Turkey and many other locations worldwide. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, we strive to enhance agricultural productivity and horticulture globally. Role Description As the Breeder Assistant, you will assist in the development and improvement of new varieties through short-day onion and broccoli breeding programs including melon crops by conducting relevant fieldwork and data collection. You will work closely with breeders in Yuma Station and other relevant staff to execute breeding strategies, conduct field trials, and collect data to identify and select desirable traits. This role reports directly to the R&D Regional Director with direction from the onsite Vegetable Breeders. Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities • Assist in the seed planting, harvest and production of seeds., • Communicate directly with breeders as needed, or at least weekly, about necessary tasks and the status of work on the station., • Provide onsite field and greenhouse operations support during trials and provide support relating to specific crops during the growing season., • Conduct field evaluations and data collection on plant traits, growth patterns, and disease resistance., • Assist in the development and maintenance of breeding populations, including pollination, seed production, and nursery management., • Assist with the planning and execution of breeding experiments and preparing samples for lab analysis., • Support the maintenance of accurate records and documentation related to breeding activities., • Contribute to the preparation of reports and presentations., • Maintain close collaboration with colleagues from R&D and other departments both locally and internationally., • Performs other duties as required by management. Skills, Qualifications and Education Required Education and Experience • Bachelor's degree in plant breeding, genetics, agronomy, or a related field. A bachelor’s degree is preferred or demonstrated work history with a background in plant science or a related field,, • One (1)+ year of experience in plant breeding and genetics., • Knowledge and practical experience of horticultural practices associated with growing successful vegetable crops., • Knowledge of plant breeding principles, techniques, and statistical analysis., • Experience in conducting field trials and data collection., • Passion for plant breeding and a desire to contribute to agricultural innovation., • Personal initiative, innovative thinking, and the ability to work in a team environment are essential for the successful candidate., • Proven ability to solve challenging problems and work with minimal direction while adapting to changing priorities., • Fluent and literate in English and Spanish, speak, read & write is required., • Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple tasks., • Strong analytical skills and attention to detail and quality., • Ability to work on Saturdays and holidays as necessary, and in all weather conditions., • Strong time management & prioritization skills., • Express confidence and professionalism with all cross functional teams, internally and externally, • Strong organizational skills and able to work effectively under pressure and accurately complete tasks within given timelines., • Ability to rapidly evaluate situations and successfully take action as needed., • Excellent communication skills through oral presentations and written reports., • Proficient in the MS Office Suite: Outlook, Word, Excel and Power Point as well as experience with ERP systems (ABS, SAP, etc.), • Ability to travel locally and internationally., • Be insurable with a valid driver’s license., • Eligible to work in the US with a valid passport. Working Environment The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. • Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods of time and periodically lift up to 25 pounds., • Ability to stand and/or sit in front of a computer screen for extended periods of time., • Work is performed in a greenhouse or outdoor field setting and may include visits to warehouses, greenhouses, and vegetable processing environments, which may include cold, wet, hot, dusty, and humid conditions. This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and other duties as assigned. American Takii, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status not listed here.