Ref#: R-97927

Job Description

Heinz Tomato Seed, Lead Greenhouse Technician

Job summary

The Lead Greenhouse Technician plays a crucial role in the production and breeding program for Heinz's high-quality hybrid tomato seed. This leadership position is responsible for the daily supervision of greenhouse staff, ensuring that all cultivation and seed production activities are conducted according to strict protocols. The technician will oversee general plant health, climate control, irrigation, and pest management, directly impacting the yield and genetic integrity of the tomato seed.

Pay range

The hourly pay for this position is $23.50.

Responsibilities and duties

• Provide advanced technical guidance and training to greenhouse personnel on the proper care and maintenance of tomato plants.
• Working alongside greenhouse crew to oversee daily greenhouse operations, including seeding, transplanting, pruning, and harvesting.
• Operate and transport materials using vehicles such as pickup trucks and golf carts in a safe and proper manner.
• Manage environmental control systems to ensure optimal conditions for tomato growth, such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation.
• Monitor nutrient delivery and irrigation schedules.
• Execute integrated pest management (IPM) strategies by scouting for pests and diseases.
• Assist in labor-intensive hybrid crossing and pollination procedures to produce experimental seed varieties.
• Maintain meticulous records of plant inventory, germination counts, growth and resource usage.
• Supervise the harvesting and processing of seeds, to ensuring quality control and proper storage.
• Conduct regular inspections of plants and equipment, and report irregularities or maintenance issues to management.
• Adhere to all company, food safety, and safety standards, including proper handling of chemicals and operating equipment.

Education and experience:

• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience working directly within a commercial or research greenhouse setting, with a proven track record in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
• Extensive hands-on experience in cultivating high-quality tomato or other vegetable crops.
• Experience with breeding, hybrid crossing, and seed production is a strong asset.

Technical skills:

• In-depth knowledge of plant physiology, pathology, and nutrient management.
• Proficiency with automated greenhouse climate control and irrigation systems.
• Experience with integrated pest management (IPM) and safe pesticide application procedures.
• A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is required.

Soft skills:

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to manage and motivate a diverse team.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities to address challenges related to plant health and equipment issues.
• Strong attention to detail for precise record-keeping and quality control.
• Adaptability and flexibility to meet the varied demands of a seasonal production schedule.

Working hours

• This is a full-time position that requires flexibility in working hours to meet seasonal demands and respond to urgent plant care needs.
• The ability to work weekends and after-hours is a required and essential function of this role. Overtime is necessary during peak seasons and will be compensated accordingly.
• The schedule may shift based on the crop cycle, greenhouse operations, and research priorities.

Physical requirements

• Ability to work in a warm, humid greenhouse environment for extended periods.
• Capable of standing, bending, and lifting materials up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family’s needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You’ll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

• Physical – Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
• Social – Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training
• Emotional – Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
• Financial – 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location: Stockton Factory

Application:  Please click HERE to learn more and to apply online.

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.