About the Opportunity

The Research Associate I will assist the Regional Research Manager with the execution of research projects in Driscoll’s southern region, set-up, monitor, and analyze field and lab trials to increase fruit production and product quality for Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries and Blueberries. This role requires collaboration with Plant Breeders and Production Management to develop meaningful research projects to increase the success of the Company and our Growers. Some travel will be required for operational needs.

About the Company

Driscoll's is the leading supplier and marketer of organic and conventional strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries in the world.
A fourth-generation, family-owned and operated company, Driscoll’s has built upon the genetic work and innovation of our founders to fulfill our mission to ‘Continually Delight Berry Consumers.

We utilize traditional plant breeding methods to create plant varieties (genetic breeds) that produce ONLY THE FINEST BERRIES™. This plant material is then patented, cultivated in Driscoll’s nurseries and supplied to our independent farmer partners around the world to grow Driscoll’s brand berries. 



Driscoll’s company culture is rooted in our mission, values, and commitment to creating a supportive work environment that fosters open and friendly communication, encourages collaboration and team interaction, and provides clear focus and direction. 



At Driscoll’s, we’re committed to Growing Great People. This means that we help our employees learn about and support our overall business strategies. We also provide opportunities for individuals to grow along with the company. Most importantly, Driscoll’s encourages our employees to achieve their career growth and cultivate their personal well-being. For more information about our company, including our Mission and Values, please go to www.driscolls.com.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for evaluating accuracy of test plot picking crew by scheduling and participating in meetings, test plot tours, and field tours, and provide clear report results in a summarized format to management and growers
• Regular visitation of field experiments for observation, documentation, and data collection to ensure quality and accuracy of data
• Work closely with ranch supervisors and growers at all test plot ranches to determine the proper execution for field experiments and data management
• Regularly walk fields to scout for crop issues and coordinate with the test-plot manager to implement pest control, irrigation and plant nutrition programs
• Ability to analyze field data to identify growers’ needs and take proper approach to solve them
• Participate with growers in production/research projects
• Coordinate the recording of applied research test plot data and field pick plots
• Ability to accommodate projects based on needs, priorities and budget
• Ensure proper labeling, maintenance of test plots and management of harvest labor to guarantee the quality and accuracy of the data
• Maintain records throughout growing season in response to changes in field and test plots while providing a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
• Responsible for maintenance and storage of all equipment necessary to perform job
• Communicate with supervisor of any issues with research projects
• Ensures the safe keeping of Driscoll owned varieties and confidential information
• Ability to travel to varying locations and perform duties
• Perform other duties as instructed by supervisor

Qualifications

• Bachelors of Science Degree in Biology or Horticulture
• 0-3 years of research experience
• Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) preferred with strong English reading and writing skills
• Knowledge in the basic principles of horticulture/agronomy/plant science and experimental design is preferred;
• The ability to successfully work well independently as well as with a diverse cross-cultural team
• Ability to exercise flexibility, initiative, good judgment and discretion
• Research and analytical skills sufficient to analyze problems in a multi- faceted way and to develop and participate in implementing solutions
• Proficient internet and Microsoft Office computer experience
• Ability to lift 40 pounds
• Ability to work in field conditions
• California driver’s license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program required

To apply

Please apply via our website to job 1753 at http://www.driscolls.com/about/careers#careersjump
and also send resume in Word or PDF to Cassandra.carvajal@driscolls.com