Global Seed Production Research Lead

Ball Horticultural Company; West Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Ball Horticultural Company seeks a Seed Production Research Lead to provide scientific and strategic leadership for global seed production initiatives. You will design and execute research programs to optimize flower and vegetable seed production, oversee lab and field trials, and translate findings into practical solutions for the business.

You will lead a diverse team, collaborate with Production, Breeding, Operations, and Commercial teams, and stay current on industry advances.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. preferred but not required; Master’s degree considered with demonstrated leadership in research and operations.
• Proven experience in seed production, horticulture, plant science, agricultural research, or related field.
• Experience designing, managing, and executing greenhouse, laboratory, and field trials.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to translate findings into business solutions.
• Demonstrated leadership, setting priorities, delegating work, and developing team members.
• Experience with laboratory operations, safety, regulatory compliance, and resource management.

Responsibilities

• Lead global research initiatives to improve flower and vegetable seed production systems.
• Design, prioritize, and oversee greenhouse, laboratory, and field trials with sound experimental design.
• Analyze results and translate findings into practical, data-driven business recommendations.
• Communicate research findings to internal stakeholders and global teams.
• Collaborate with Production, Breeding, Operations, and Commercial teams to align priorities.
• Identify emerging technologies and opportunities to improve seed production processes.
• Develop research proposals, technical reports, and recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Manage multiple projects across global locations, ensuring timelines and resources are allocated.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Ph.D. preferred

Master's degree

Tools

Greenhouse environmental control systems

IPM

Fertigation

Seed production practices

Job description

Ball Horticultural Company seeks a Seed Production Research Lead to provide scientific and strategic leadership for global seed production initiatives. You will design and execute research programs to optimize flower and vegetable seed production, oversee lab and field trials, and translate findings into practical solutions for the business.

You will lead a diverse team, collaborate with Production, Breeding, Operations, and Commercial teams, and stay current on industry advances.