Pathology Technologist at Sakata Seed America, INC. – Salinas, California

JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for providing technical and non-technical assistance to the Plant Pathologist. Responsible for coordinating and conducting diverse tasks such as scheduling routine resistance screens, growing, caring and inoculation of plants used in disease resistance screens, interpreting; processing, and reporting results; maintaining the pathology facilities including but not limited to greenhouse, grow chambers and laboratory. Assist in other pathology activities and collaborate with other departments as requested.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate and conduct disease resistance screenings of germplasm in the laboratory, greenhouse, growth chambers, and field.
• Coordinate and perform the scheduling of disease resistance screens, their evaluation, interpretation, and recording/entry of data. Participate in the evaluation of cultivar reaction to diseases for the development of information necessary for product development and sales.
• Organize and analyze results of disease resistance screens and discoveries from research projects (e.g., evaluation of new methods, development of new protocols) in formal reports to the supervisor.
• Assist in the development and implementation of disease screening protocols, disease diagnosis, and new techniques in other pathology programs (e.g., QA and Seed health), as requested.
• Responsible for performing and coordinating regular maintenance, including the proper control and timely repair of departmental equipment, general housekeeping, and routine clean-up of the pathology facilities.
• Responsible for the growth and care of plants, including but not limited to media preparation, fertilization, watering, pest control, used in disease resistance screening.
• Supervise and/or train technicians, trainees, labor crews, and others as delegated by supervisor ensuring the safety protocols are followed by all non-pathology staff working in the department.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Basic knowledge of plant science, agronomy, microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, statistics.
• Ability to develop excellent laboratory skills/knowledge in microbiology and plant care.
• Ability to do routine and repetitive work in a greenhouse/field or at a laboratory bench for several hours.
• Accuracy, efficiency, good dexterity, and visual acuity are critical.
• Ability to quickly adapt and be receptive to changing work demands, techniques, and/or approaches.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Good oral and written communication, and organizational skills.
• Competency in data management and use of computer applications.
• Willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks and duties.
• Ability to handle stress especially when encountering necessary projects, deadlines and/or high workload.
• Must be able to work under strict time constraints and requirements.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS/EXPERIENCE/BACKGROUND:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology/microbiology, agronomy, or related field, or equivalent in work experience.
• Experience in Plant Pathology, laboratory/controlled environment and/or greenhouse/field work desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be willing to work overtime hours, including some weekends and holidays, as requested.
• Must be able to work with chemicals, pesticides, and other irritating substances.
• Must be able to wear protective equipment when necessary and/or required (e.g., lab coat, gloves, respirator).
• Must be able to stand or sit for several hours at a time (up to 70% of time).
• Must be able to do some lifting of lightweight items (50 lbs.).

Benefits:

Health & Wellness
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Monthly Wellness Stipend
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Disability Insurance (plans vary by location)

Financial Benefits
401(k) Program + Company Match
Profit Sharing Program (via 401(k)

Holiday Bonus

Performance Incentive Bonus Program
Tuition Reimbursement

529 College‑Savings Plan
Company-Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance

Time Off & Flexibility
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
14 Paid Company Holidays
2 Floating Holidays

Birthday Off