Tropical Plant Germplasm Technician – Crop Research

U.S. Department of Agriculture; Hilo (HI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service, Pacific West Area, in Hilo, HI, seeks a senior technician to support the Tropical Plant Genetic Resources & Disease Unit. You will help collect, preserve, document, and distribute subtropical and tropical fruit, nut, and beverage crops.

You will maintain detailed records, contribute to method development, and assist with literature searches and phenotypic/genetic characterization of germplasm in a hands-on lab and field setting.

Qualifications

• Experience with plant germplasm curation and data recording.
• Ability to maintain detailed records and documentation.
• Ability to locate and evaluate literature related to cultivation, propagation, pests, diseases, and molecular methods.
• Familiarity with laboratory, greenhouse, or field procedures used in plant biology.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a research setting.

Responsibilities

• Keeps detailed records of plant accession, cultivation, and experimental data.
• Researches new products and procedures to improve curatorial or characterization procedures.
• Searches for literature pertinent to plant cultivation requirements, seed or propagation techniques, pest and disease identification or control, new molecular research for new procedures or techniques to use in the laboratory, field, or greenhouse.
• Develops and refines techniques to improve germplasm cultivation, including monitoring and managing pests and diseases, and enhances methods for phenotypic and genetic characterization of the collections.
• Performs the full range of techniques and studies using a variety of specialized equipment such as autoclaves, pH meters, spectrophotometers, total soluble sugar monitors, thermocyclers, mowers, sprayers etc.
• Prepares and applies spray or reagent solutions, such as, but not limited to pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, and safely disposes of waste material (both chemical and biological).

Skills

Attention to Detail

Integrity/Honesty

Interpersonal Skills

Flexibility

Reading Comprehension

Teamwork

Self-Management

Learning

Job description

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service, Pacific West Area, in Hilo, HI, seeks a senior technician to support the Tropical Plant Genetic Resources & Disease Unit. You will help collect, preserve, document, and distribute subtropical and tropical fruit, nut, and beverage crops.

You will maintain detailed records, contribute to method development, and assist with literature searches and phenotypic/genetic characterization of germplasm in a hands-on lab and field setting.