Junior Plant Breeding Technician — Field & Lab

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 9,100 - 14,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Entry-level salary

On-the-job training

Exposure to advanced methodologies

Collaborative research environment

Regional South Africa experience

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Research Technician for our client, a leading agricultural institute in Upington, South Africa. You will assist with plant breeding programs, manage field trials, collect data, and support laboratory analyses to develop new crop varieties for arid environments.

You will work under senior researchers, contribute to experimental design, maintain detailed records, and ensure safety protocols.

Qualifications

• A National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Previous experience in a research or agricultural setting is advantageous.
• A strong interest in plant breeding, genetics, and crop science.
• Basic understanding of experimental design and data collection principles.
• Good practical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data management.

Responsibilities

• Assist in plant breeding experiments, including crossings and self-pollinations.
• Plant, manage, and monitor field trials with accurate data collection.
• Collect plant samples for lab analysis such as DNA extraction or phenotyping.
• Perform basic laboratory procedures related to plant genetics and breeding.
• Maintain detailed records of procedures, observations, and results.
• Prepare experimental materials and equipment for field and lab work.
• Assist with data entry and preliminary analysis of results.
• Participate in seed increase and maintenance programs for breeding lines.
• Ensure adherence to lab safety protocols and guidelines.
• Collaborate with researchers and other technicians to achieve project objectives.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Independence

Team collaboration

Data collection principles

Laboratory safety awareness

Education

National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Biotechnology, or related field

Tools

Excel

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Research Technician for our client, a leading agricultural institute in Upington, South Africa. You will assist with plant breeding programs, manage field trials, collect data, and support laboratory analyses to develop new crop varieties for arid environments.

You will work under senior researchers, contribute to experimental design, maintain detailed records, and ensure safety protocols.