Seed Production Research Lead
Ball Horticultural Company · West Chicago, IL · 1 mo ago
Analyst$90k–$120k/yrFull-time
Responsibilities
- 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.
Requirements
- 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.
- Able to work effectively across cultures and global locations.