Seed Production Research Lead in West Chicago, Illinois at BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY

PanAmerican Seed, a division of Ball Horticultural Company, is seeking an experienced and innovative Seed Production Research Lead to provide scientific and strategic leadership for global research initiatives focused on optimizing flower and vegetable seed production. As a leading breeder and producer of F1 hybrid and open-pollinated flower seed, PanAmerican Seed is committed to delivering high-quality genetics that create value throughout the supply chain—from grower to consumer.

In this role, you will lead global research programs that improve seed quality, production efficiency, and operational performance. You will design and execute research strategies, oversee laboratory and trial operations, and translate scientific findings into practical, commercially relevant solutions. Working closely with global Production, Breeding, Operations, and Commercial teams, you will help identify opportunities, drive innovation, and support continuous improvement across seed production systems.

In addition to technical leadership, you will manage and develop a research team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and scientific excellence.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Lead global research initiatives focused on improving flower and vegetable seed production systems.
• Design, prioritize, and oversee greenhouse, laboratory, and field research trials, ensuring sound experimental design, accurate data collection, and meaningful analysis.
• Analyze research results and develop practical recommendations to support data-driven business decisions.
• Communicate research findings and project updates effectively to internal stakeholders and global teams.
• Collaborate with Production, Breeding, Operations, and Commercial teams to align research priorities with business objectives.
• Identify emerging technologies, production opportunities, and innovative solutions to improve seed production processes.
• Develop research proposals, technical reports, and recommendations that support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead multiple research projects across global locations while managing timelines, priorities, and resources.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and performance feedback to research team members, fostering professional development and technical growth.
• Assign and prioritize work to ensure research objectives and operational goals are achieved.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, including staffing, resource allocation, safety compliance, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and innovative team environment that encourages continuous learning and knowledge sharing.
• Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and advancements in seed production research.
• Perform other duties as needed to support departmental and organizational goals.

• Ph.D. preferred but not required. Candidates with a master’s degree and demonstrated research, laboratory management, and leadership experience are encouraged to apply.
• Proven experience in seed production, horticulture, plant science, agricultural research, or a related field.
• Experience designing, managing, and executing greenhouse, laboratory, and field research trials.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret research data and translate findings into practical business solutions.
• Demonstrated experience leading research projects and collaborating with cross-functional teams in a global environment.
• Proven leadership experience, including setting priorities, delegating work, developing team members, and driving accountability.
• Experience managing laboratory operations, including safety, regulatory compliance, quality standards, and research resources.
• Experience with greenhouse environmental control systems, fertigation, integrated pest management (IPM), F1 crop pollination, and seed production practices is highly desirable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present technical information to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work effectively across cultures and global locations.

Salary Range: $90k-$120k

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and use hands/fingers for extended periods of time.
• Ability to occasionally bend, kneel, reach, and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work in laboratory, greenhouse, and field environments.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including heat and humidity.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 10–15% of the time.

Our promise to you

Ball is a global leader in horticulture: we develop, produce, and sell plants around the world. Our vision is to color the world through our customers. We create excitement in the world of flowers and are the first choice for service. We deliver all the best and nothing else! To you, we deliver a work environment and a culture where building long-lasting relationships internally and externally is important. We believe that good communication, sharing ideas and collaborating on projects will set us up for success. We keep both our feet on the ground and are approachable.

In addition to this we provide a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes:

• Medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance
• 401k/Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
• Paid time off benefits including vacation and holidays
• Tuition assistance
• An onsite subsidized café overlooking 30 acres of renowned display gardens and
• restored natural areas
• Employee Assistance Program and Positive Health programs