Seed Physiology Research Technologist – Salinas, CA
The Seed Physiology Research Technologist supports laboratory, greenhouse, and field operations by performing routine technical tasks and experiments to improve seed quality and yield. This entry-level role involves executing standard procedures, managing plant care, documenting data, and assisting with quality and safety compliance under close supervision, while developing foundational technical skills in plant science research.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
The Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Seed Physiology Research Technologist to support greenhouse, laboratory, and field research focused on improving seed quality and yield. This role executes routine technical tasks under close supervision while developing foundational laboratory and plant-science skills.
Primary responsibilities:
- Conduct hands-on greenhouse, laboratory, and/or field experiments and routine tasks as assigned by QA, R&D, Marketing, Production, and Operations.
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prepare samples, reagents, and media and to perform routine assays and plant-care activities.
- Operate basic laboratory and greenhouse equipment under guidance.
- Plant, transplant, fertilize, irrigate, manage pests/diseases, harvest, and maintain research crops.
- Record and document observations and data in notebooks and/or a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Compile experimental results and support basic statistical analysis and reporting.
- Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas; support inventory and supply checks.
- Supervise and train interns or temporary helpers when assigned.
- Share weekend/holiday watering duties at the research station as assigned.
- Perform other seed-biology or quality duties as reasonably required.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, plant science, chemistry, biochemistry, or equivalent education/experience.
- Basic knowledge of biology, microbiology and/or plant science and standard laboratory principles.
- Comfortable working in agricultural environments and with agricultural chemicals, fertilizers, and plant growth regulators.
- Ability to learn and apply standard lab and greenhouse techniques under supervision.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately.
- Basic computer skills and experience or ability to use LIMS and standard software for data entry.
- Good verbal and written communication skills and ability to work independently and in a team.
- Willingness to adapt to changing techniques and work demands.
Preferred / Helpful Skills
- Prior greenhouse, field, or laboratory experience (internships or coursework).
- Familiarity with SOP-driven workflows and basic data compilation or statistical summaries.
- Experience caring for multiple crop types and basic integrated pest management.
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
- Work is performed in greenhouse, laboratory, and field settings; expect exposure to hot and cold temperatures (30–60% of time).
- May work with chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers, and plant growth regulators following federal, state, and company safety rules.
- Must be able to wear personal protective equipment when required.
- Able to stand for long periods, perform repetitious bench or greenhouse work for 2–3 hours, and work in dusty conditions.
- Availability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays when workflow requires.
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law.
Compensation
- Estimated: $27,526 per year (estimated figure shown in source). Actual compensation and pay range will be provided by the Confidential Client during the hiring process in accordance with applicable state and local laws.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Monthly Wellness Stipend; Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- 401(k) with Company Match; Profit Sharing via 401(k)
- Disability Insurance (varies by location); Company-paid Basic Life & AD&D
- Paid Vacation; Paid Sick Leave; 15 Paid Company Holidays; 2 Floating Holidays; Birthday Off
- Tuition Reimbursement; 529 College‑Savings Plan; Performance & Holiday Bonuses
Legal & Compliance Notes
- Employment eligibility: Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. The Confidential Client will comply with federal, state (including California) and local employment laws.
- Reasonable accommodations are available upon request for candidates with disabilities.
- This posting avoids discriminatory criteria and follows applicable state pay-transparency and hiring regulations.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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