R&D Berry Farm Irrigation Lead

Driscoll Strawberry Associates, Inc; Watsonville (CA); On-site; USD 76,810 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Life insurance

Disability coverage

401(k) with employer match

Paid sick time

Paid vacation

Paid personal and family care leave

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Driscoll’s is seeking a Technical Grower to support the Farm Manager in growing high quality crops for breeders and researchers in Watsonville, CA. You will lead new tech implementations, manage irrigation and fertigation, monitor environmental data, and coordinate with breeders and researchers on trial farming.

The role requires a Bachelor’s/Master’s in horticulture or related field with 3+ years of experience, PCA/CCA a plus, and strong data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Biology, Agricultural Business, or Agriculture with 3+ years of experience and a comprehensive understanding of horticulture crops and agronomy, plant physiology and plant genetics.
• Pesticide Control Advisor (PCA) and Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) is a plus.
• California Driver’s license and ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new technologies in the R&D substrate test plot farm.
• Oversee the agronomy of all crops in substrate, working with the existing research farm teams to grow the crops to best commercial practice.
• Review recipes and implement proper fertility program for blackberries, raspberries and blueberries.
• Gather monthly water samples and tissue samples to guarantee proper nutrient targets are met.
• Manage the implementation of new technologies in designated area of focus.
• Gather vendor information and lead the decision-making process of selecting a provider of a new technology purchase.
• Oversee operation of complex irrigation system such as PRIVA and support continuous improvement of this system.

Skills

Bilingual (Spanish/English)

Project management

Data analysis

Irrigation management

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Horticulture/Plant Science/Biology/Agricultural Business/Ag.

Job description

Driscoll’s is seeking a Technical Grower to support the Farm Manager in growing high quality crops for breeders and researchers in Watsonville, CA. You will lead new tech implementations, manage irrigation and fertigation, monitor environmental data, and coordinate with breeders and researchers on trial farming.

The role requires a Bachelor’s/Master’s in horticulture or related field with 3+ years of experience, PCA/CCA a plus, and strong data analysis skills.