Entry Level Plant Health Technician

HarveStaff; Chesterfield (MO); On-site; USD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

HarveStaff LLC is seeking an Entry Level Plant Health Technician in Chesterfield, MO. This contract role supports the production of high-volume, high-quality fungal and bacterial inoculum used to characterize plant disease traits, involving lab, controlled environments, and occasional field activities in a fast-paced production setting.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor’s in Microbiology/related field, have experience with microbiology techniques, and demonstrate strong attention to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology/Plant Pathology/Agri Sci/Biology required.
• Master’s or Ph.D. preferred.
• Background in microbiology or microorganism-related work required.
• Background in agricultural sciences and/or plant pathology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manipulate, maintain, and manage fungal and bacterial pathogens.
• Support molecular characterization and identification of microorganisms.
• Document microorganisms and maintain records in online databases.
• Develop and perform in planta and in vitro assays.
• Conduct quality assurance and quality control activities.
• Apply sterile techniques throughout laboratory and production processes.
• Prepare substrates and growth media.
• Infest, dry, harvest, and package inoculum while maintaining sterile conditions.
• Support compliant packaging and shipping procedures.
• Plant, maintain, and inoculate plants and collect tissue samples.
• Maintain accurate data records and proper labeling.
• Dispose of regulated and non-regulated waste according to established procedures.
• Sterilize machinery, materials, laboratories, greenhouses, and growth chambers as needed.
• Assist scientists with project-related tasks.
• Support field activities and travel occasionally as required.
• Adapt to changing priorities and frequent shifts in duties.

Skills

Mycology

Microbiology

Molecular biology

Sterile techniques

GMP knowledge

Attention to detail

SOP adherence

MS Office

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Repetitive tasks

Production environment

Health & safety

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology/Plant Pathology/Agri Sci/Biology

Master’s or Ph.D. preferred

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Entry Level Plant Health Technician

JOB-10047744

Anticipated Start Date

November 1, 2026

Location

Chesterfield, MO

Type of Employment

Contract

Employer Info

As a global leader in agriculture enterprise, our client is recognized for their multiple brands and renowned reputation. Their research and development teams combine knowledge and ingenuity to create the most innovative ideas. With their cutting-edge products, they have a common goal: improved quality of life for all.

Job Summary

If you're interested in a n Entry Level Plant Health Technician n job , then this is the best role for you! The Plant Health Technician will support the production of high-volume, high-quality fungal and bacterial inoculum used to characterize plant disease traits. This entry-level role involves laboratory, controlled-environment, and occasional field activities in a fast-paced production environment.

Job Description

• Manipulate, maintain, and manage fungal and bacterial pathogens.
• Support molecular characterization and identification of microorganisms.
• Document microorganisms and maintain accurate records in online databases.
• Develop and perform in planta and in vitro assays.
• Conduct quality assurance and quality control activities.
• Apply sterile techniques throughout laboratory and production processes.
• Prepare substrates and growth media.
• Infest, dry, harvest, and package inoculum while maintaining sterile conditions.
• Support compliant packaging and shipping procedures.
• Plant, maintain, and inoculate plants and collect tissue samples.
• Maintain accurate data records and proper labeling.
• Dispose of regulated and non-regulated waste according to established procedures.
• Sterilize machinery, materials, laboratories, greenhouses, and growth chambers as needed.
• Assist scientists with project-related tasks.
• Support field activities and travel occasionally as required.
• Adapt to changing priorities and frequent shifts in duties.

Skills Required

• Experience in mycology and/or microbiology.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques involving biological materials and microorganisms.
• Knowledge of sterile techniques and good manufacturing practices.
• Strong attention to detail and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and labeling requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy and quality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental procedures.

Education/Training/Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Agricultural Sciences, Biology, or a related field required.
• Master’s or Ph.D. preferred.
• Background in microbiology or microorganism-related work required.
• Background in agricultural sciences and/or plant pathology preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to pass drug screenings and criminal background checks
• Must be punctual and able to report by 8:00 AM daily and by 7:30 AM during peak production periods.
• Comfortable working primarily in a production environment.
• Comfortable working occasionally in growth chambers and field settings.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. or more occasionally.
• Ability to frequently handle and shake 4–5 lb. inoculum bags during peak production.
• Must maintain clean and organized work and laboratory areas.
• Must be willing to travel occasionally and work at field sites as required.

Pay Rate/Salary

• Estimated Salary: $24.44 to $32.44 per hour. Compensation will be offered within this posted range based on experience, skills, and market factors.

HarveStaff LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.