Seed Physiology Research Technologist

About the role

The Technologist III is an entry-level role responsible for supporting laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field operations through the execution of basic, routine technical tasks under close supervision. The position carries out research and quality projects — performing experiments in the greenhouse, lab, and field, and recording and documenting results — in order to extensively and progressively improve seed quality and yield at Sakata Seed America. This role is primarily developmental, focused on building foundational technical skills, gaining proficiency with standard laboratory and/or plant-science procedures, and developing an understanding of quality, safety, and operational protocols.

Responsibilities

• Day-to-day operation of greenhouse, laboratory, and/or field experiments to address seed quality and yield.
• Maintenance of the work area.
• Basic data analysis of experiments and documentation of protocols and results.
• Conducting hands-on laboratory, greenhouse, and/or field experiments and routine tasks in an organized and timely manner as requested by QA, R&D, Marketing, Production, and Operations Departments.
• Following established SOPs to prepare samples, reagents, and media, and to perform routine assays and/or plant-care activities under supervision.
• Operating basic and standard laboratory and greenhouse equipment with guidance.
• Managing greenhouse plants used for research as assigned, including planting, transplanting, growing different crops, fertilizer application, integrated pest and disease management, irrigation, harvesting, and cleaning.
• Recording and accurately documenting data and observations in notebooks and/or laboratory information systems (LIMS).
• Compiling experimental results, supporting basic statistical analysis, and contributing to the technical reports of research projects.
• Maintaining clean, organized, and safe work areas, and supporting inventory checks and supply organization.
• Complying with all quality, safety, and regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Supervising and training interns and temporary helpers in laboratory and greenhouse operating procedures, as assigned.
• Sharing watering duties with peers during weekends and holidays at the research station, as assigned.
• Performing any other seed-biology or quality duties as may be reasonably required by the Company, QA Manager, or Manager.
• Working in a greenhouse environment, as well as in the laboratory and field, depending on assignment.

Requirements

• Education and training in plant science, biology, chemistry, or biochemistry.
• Ability to perform job activities accurately and efficiently, with strong attention to detail.
• Comfortable working in an agricultural environment (e.g., with agricultural chemicals and in environments where temperatures may be hot or cold).
• Good communication skills and willingness to work both alone and as part of a team.
• Self‑motivated, able to work with minimum supervision, and receptive to changing work demands, techniques, or approaches, adapting quickly.
• Ability to perform repetitious work in a greenhouse or at a laboratory bench for 2 to 3 hours without interruption.
• Ability to perform each essential duty satisfactorily; reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biology, microbiology, plant science, or related discipline) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Basic knowledge of biology, microbiology, plant science, and/or laboratory principles.
• Ability to learn and apply standard laboratory techniques and/or greenhouse and field procedures under supervision.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to perform accurate, repetitive tasks and follow established protocols.
• Basic computer skills, including data entry and ability to work with laboratory information systems (e.g., LIMS) and/or standard software applications.
• Ability to follow written procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards consistently.
• Good organizational skills and ability to maintain clean and orderly work areas.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills appropriate for basic task reporting and team interaction.
• Ability to work both independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Willingness to learn new techniques, adapt to