Technical Growing and IPM Specialist
About The Position
Syngenta Flowers North America is one of the largest wholesale breeders of hybrid flower seed and cuttings in the world – developing and producing flower seeds and cuttings for growers internationally. We are dedicated to breeding innovative flower varieties that offer outstanding performance in the professional greenhouse, at retail, in the landscape and in the home garden. To support this mission, Syngenta’s R&D is seeking a Technical Growing & IPM Specialist in Gilroy, CA. The Technical Growing & IPM Specialist will lead the implementation and management of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems across the Gilroy site to ensure compliance with all regulatory, phytosanitary, and certification standards. Serve as the primary owner of audit and certification processes, including Global GAP, NAKT, and county inspections, while driving adherence to HSE and phytosanitary protocols. Execute and oversee IPM and growing procedures including environmental control and innovation in growing to deliver the highest quality trials and crops in support of R&D objectives. Serve as backup to the Head Grower, providing leadership and decision-making support in their absence
Requirements
- PLEASE NOTE: Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without requiring current or future sponsorship (which also includes OPT/CPT and H-1B visas).
- Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field with 3+ years of experience in greenhouse or nursery operations; OR 5+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree.
- Must have or able to obtain a CA pesticide applicators license (within 6 months).
- Experience with IPM (Integrated Pest Management).
- Experience working in a controlled environment greenhouse.
- Understanding and knowledge of relevant, current industry standards and their application to technical workflow.
- Experience successfully supervising a team.
- Proficient in basic computer programs (e.g., Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Bi-lingual in English and Spanish (written and oral) required
Nice To Haves
- Argus system experience.
Responsibilities
- Lead implementation and management of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems across the Gilroy site, including all scouting, spraying, and fumigation activities to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, IPM protocols, and Worker Protection Standards (WPS).
- Serve as primary owner of audit and certification processes including Global GAP, NAKT, and county inspections; maintain accurate records of all pesticide applications, submit required reports to county agencies, and manage all training with site personnel and written regulatory programs.
- Monitor and diagnose crops for insect, disease, and physiological issues across all growth stages; visually inspect crops proactively to identify and address quality, health, or environmental concerns in support of R&D objectives.
- Oversee irrigation and fertigation management including pour-through testing and data analysis; monitor and adjust environmental controls through the Argus system and cross-train team members on system operations.
- Manage chemical inventory to ensure proper storage, handling, and regulatory compliance; monitor usage and costs to optimize budget efficiency and ensure all IPM equipment is maintained for safe, efficient, and effective operation.
- Lead greenhouse and field trials to test and implement improvements to current growing and IPM practices; drive innovation in growing procedures and integrated pest management strategies to deliver highest quality trials and crops.
- Develop and maintain schedules for scouting, spraying, and growing activities aligned with trial timelines; track KPIs related to crop quality, pest management, and operational efficiency; serve as backup to Head Grower providing leadership and decision-making support in their absence.
Benefits
- A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members.
- Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
- Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
- 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
- Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
