R&D Test Plot Manager

$87,522 - $131,000/Yr

Driscoll's - Oxnard, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Oxnard, CA

Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods

About the position

The R D Test Plot Manager will lead the execution of research trials in the R D Farming team, focusing on optimizing farming practices to enhance crop flavor and yield. This role is crucial for ensuring the successful development and deployment of proprietary genetics while managing the research farm teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the agronomy of all crops in substrate and soil production systems.
• Develop and implement sustainable research farm systems for high-quality data collection.
• Lead and empower the research farm team, enhancing their technical knowledge.
• Mentor and onboard new research farm staff, fostering development and collaboration.
• Manage the research farms within approved budgetary targets, monitoring expenditures.
• Contribute to strategic planning and ensure alignment with plant breeders and applied research.
• Design and implement high-quality processes and improvements in research farms.
• Oversee pest and disease scouting and management, ensuring effective weed management.
• Accountable for equipment maintenance and worker safety.
• Manage an Administrative Assistant, Technical Grower, and Test Plot Lead Supervisor.
• Manage land leases and landlord relationships, developing land plans and rotations with breeders.
• Review and approve administrative paperwork for farm crews regarding payroll and evaluations.
• Design and implement systems for efficient labor and equipment management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with at least 8 years of experience or a Master's degree with at least 5 years of experience in Horticulture, Biology, Biochemistry, or Agriculture.
• Comprehensive understanding of horticulture crops, agronomy, plant physiology, and plant genetics.
• Significant experience managing complex horticultural sites with large teams.
• Ability to plan and manage budgets within set guidelines.
• Knowledge of horticultural crop agronomy from seedling to harvesting.
• Practical experience in farming practices, including equipment operation and pest control.
• Comfortable working in field, office, and corporate settings, with willingness to perform physical work.
• Valid driver's license and ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual in Spanish and English.
• Experience in berry production, particularly soft fruit production.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer programs such as Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Family leave
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Profit-sharing participation
• Paid sick time
• Paid vacation
• Paid personal and family care leave
• Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP)