As an Applied Research Scientist, you will provide scientific leadership to district teams and develop novel production innovations by leveraging cultivar genetics, physiology and knowledge of key supply gaps for Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries and Blueberries. The position will spend a large percentage of time in the field and work cross-collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including working directly with growers and the research farm, breeding, agronomy, production, plant health, and global R&D teams. Important duties include prioritizing, designing, executing and collecting data from various research projects, monitoring cultivar performance, and evaluating how findings can be applied at a production level. This position will execute research objectives derived from business priorities, perform analysis of complex multi-factor datasets using statistical software packages (JMP, SAS, R) and write research reports and best management practices to present with key stakeholders and business leaders. Responsibilities
• Leads research prioritization and discovery process by working with stakeholders to identify key research projects that provide unique technical solutions that align with the strategic business plan.
• Formulate trial protocols, including planning nursery plant orders, and execute appropriate experimental designs to address research objectives within practical constraints of field limitations and farming practices, and align with the operational budget.
• Visit field experiments to take observations, ensure that data collection is complete and accurate, and processes are implemented, and coordinate with the farming team to ensure best and appropriate farming practices are being followed for research trials.
• Statistically analyze and report on trial results in presentations, write research reports, and document best production practices and communicate findings to diverse internal and external audiences.
• Organize and deliver large-scale presentations at outreach events such as trainings, workshops, conferences, technical meetings, etc., in coordination with Agronomy.
• Coordinate interdepartmental work groups and provide exceptional support to resolve complex agronomic problems in commercial fields in support of Agronomy, Breeding, and Production.
• Recruit Applied Research talent in the region and develop less-experienced personnel to achieve individual and business goals with a technical focus.
• Represents Driscoll’s in an ethical and business-like professional manner in all interactions with growers, co-workers, suppliers, customers and the business community at large.
• Ensures the safekeeping of Driscoll’s confidential and proprietary information and materials.
• Perform other duties as instructed by supervisor.
Candidate Profile• B.S. in Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Horticulture or equivalent.
• 4+ years of relevant work experience.
• Demonstrated experience implementing appropriate experimental designs related to field-based research projects, including in grower production settings.
• Capable of identifying key physiological and genetic drivers when evaluating plant performance
• Proficiency with at least one statistical analysis software (JMP preferred).
• Proficient internet and Microsoft Office computer experience.
• Bi-lingual (Spanish/English).
• Experience presenting scientific research to various audiences.
• Able to lift 40 pounds, walk for extended periods over uneven terrain, and to work in field conditions.
• Travel to local and regional farms will be required daily, with occasional longer distance domestic and international travel.
• California driver’s license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program.
• A valid passport and the ability to travel internationally without restrictions.
Preferred qualifications
• M.S. or PhD in Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Horticulture or equivalent degree.
• 6+ years of relevant work experience.
• 2+ years people management experience.
• Passion for plants and berry production.
• Experience with substrate farming systems and nursery production.
• Proven research and analytical skills to analyze problems participate in implementing solutions.
• Needs to be dependable, reliable, self-starter, and able to work independently as well as a member of a team.
• Experience managing and developing a team of seasonal and/or full-time research associates, technicians, etc.
• Excellent communication skills to a scientific and grower audience.
• Track record of collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to do multiple tasks and solve problems with a sense of urgency without direct supervision.
Compensation and Benefits
The following information is provided in good faith as a general description of the salary range and benefits for the position posted. The actual compensation offered to the successful candidate is dependent upon experience, skills, education, work location, internal pay equity, and other objective job-related factors.
Salary Range estimated for the Applied Research Scientist: $94,620.00/year to $123,000.00/year.
Driscoll’s is committed to a culture of care and offers an attractive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, and disability coverage for positions working more than 30 hours per week. Other benefits include: 401(k) with employer match, profit-sharing participation, paid sick time, paid vacation, paid personal and family care leave, and a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP). More detailed information regarding the benefits package, will be shared during the application process.
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