Assistant Plant Breeder

BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY•Elburn, IL

8d•$22 - $25

About The Position

The role of an Assistant Plant Breeder at Ball Horticultural is to support, implement, and evaluate high-priority plant breeding program components under the supervision of a Plant Breeder. This includes coordinating and implementing breeding trials, recording and aggregating relevant data, working with external departments to support program objectives, and maintaining records as needed. This position offers a unique opportunity for training in ornamental plant breeding, including the potential for independent breeding projects. The ideal candidate is not only a highly organized, clear communicator, but they are also excited to positively impact the horticultural industry and engage with multidisciplinary teams.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in plant sciences preferred or associate’s degree with 2+ years of experience will be considered.
Experience working hands-on with plants and a general passion for Horticulture is a major requirement.
Command of MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point, other) and database experience.
Demonstrates drive, motivation and organizational skills.
Appropriately uses critical observation skills to make decisions and take initiative.
Domestic travel (~10-15%) as directed by Supervisor

Responsibilities

Assist in the execution of breeding trials designed by Plant Breeders.
Oversee and support breeding and plant production processes to ensure breeders can meet their program objectives. This includes regular monitoring of plants in the greenhouse/field and seed processing.
Aid Plant Breeders in an administrative capacity, including management of the breeding database, collecting and recording observations, compiling reports, and submitting internal forms as needed to ensure high quality product development.
Assist the Breeder Technician Supervisor in the coordination of tasks to Breeder Technicians. Supports the training and development of Breeder Technicians.
Improve the accuracy, efficiency, and safety of workflows identifying useful technology and tools for digital enablement.
Ensure timely and clear communication with support teams in Production, Ball Helix, Product Management, Facilities and Operations, and Trial Managers at off-site locations to ensure satisfactory completion of R&D projects.
As part of training and to gain proficiency, an Assistant Plant Breeder may also have some small, limited plant breeding projects of their own, assigned by a senior Plant Breeder as part of the overall R&D strategic goals.
Other duties and responsibilities as determined by the Supervisor.