Description

We’re hiring to join our Trait Integration team

Learn how you can be our voice in the conversation about the future of agriculture. As a Trait Integration (TI) Specialist you will be a key player in delivering traits by means of executing a variety of TI related tasks which will include specific field/controlled environment structures and lab activities. You must also be comfortable using computers and mobile devices. Most importantly, you need a collaborative attitude, good communication and critical thinking skills, and a commitment to quality. TI Specialists may be asked to serve as a crew lead, which entails supervising contingent workers.

You Will Be Part of Growing Team

As a Trait Integration team, we are responsible for efficiently delivering inbred lines converted to transgenic herbicide tolerant and/or insect resistant traits. These converted inbred lines contribute to protecting hybrid yields against insect and weed pressure, supporting our goal to feed the world through innovation and integrity.

Your Challenge:

• Must have the ability to meet deadlines, show attention to detail, succeed in a team environment, and use a computer and other data collection devices
• Support and manage nursery staff where such a need is identified, enabling a high standard in conversion quality.
• Ensure full implementation of quality management protocols and ensure safety operating procedures is in place for all routine tasks
• Ensure that data are collected accurately and consistently uploaded to databases.
• Planning and executing nursery operations at the site, including the use of proprietary software.
• Assist with planting, transplanting, sampling, data collection and harvesting in greenhouses.
• Ensure that the work area is kept safe, clean, and orderly
• Phenotypic and genotypic selections in field and greenhouse nurseries
• Participate in and lead seed processing activities, including seed preparation, sorting, shelling, and inventory management
• May be required to work overtime, public holidays, and some weekends when needed to perform core duties
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary team environment
• Required to travel to other nurseries sites in other RSA regions on a regular basis
• Multitasking, working under pressure, being hands-on and being proactive are essential for success in this role
• Work with Genetically Modified Organisms in accordance with government regulations and internal company policies
• Regularly scout greenhouses and have continual visits to ensure optimum plant development and health
• Analyze operational efficiency metrics of work performance and processes to ensure continuous improvement through innovation.
• Lead and participate in process improvement and internal research projects
• Participate and lead training, guidance, and supervision of the activities of assistants and temporary employees
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary team environment
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong ownership for delivering high-quality results
• Demonstrate skills in leadership, operational safety, labor supervision, and time management.
• May be required to do physical lifting and will require working in varying ergonomic and physical environments, including outdoors and in hot, humid greenhouses
• High energy level and accountability, strong self-motivation, and a high degree of problem-solving skills
• A familiarity with the crop growing practices
• A passion for crop production
• Experience in trait introgression, genotyping and tissue sampling will be an advantage
• Energy and agility are also positive attributes for this role
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Key Stakeholders and Interactions:

Trait Integration Specialist will be working with the local and global TI team. Occasional collaboration with breeding teams will be expected.

Location:

Delmas, Mpumalanga

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Qualifications

To Grow What Matters, You Will Need

• BSc or Honors in plant breeding, agriculture, agronomy, horticulture, plant biology or related discipline or equivalent experience in a related field, with at least 2 years of agricultural experience.
• Experience in plant breeding operations or trait integration will be an advantage.
• Individual must be results orientated, innovative, and have proven organizational ability.
• A valid driver’s license is mandatory. Some more extended travel in RSA to field nurseries may be necessary during planting or harvesting campaigns.
• The ability to write and speak English fluently is essential as well as work in a team of diverse cultural backgrounds and languages

Who Are We Looking For?

• Curious, bold thinkers who want to grow their careers and be part of a winning team
• Market shaping individuals who want to transform the agriculture industry to meet the world’s growing need for food
• Collaborators who thrive in a diverse, inclusive work environment
• Innovators who bring initiative and fresh ideas that drive our business into the future and make us an industry leader

Growing What Matters Starts with You… What We Can Offer to Help You Grow?

• Opportunity to be part of a global industry leader working to discover solutions to the most pressing agricultural challenges of our time
• Challenging work assignments that grow your skills, capabilities and experiences
• Opportunities for international rotations and relocation that will expand your global view and cultural experience
• Diverse, inclusive work environment where employees bring their whole selves to work and feel heard, valued and empowered
• Dedicated and customized resources to help grow your professional skills, industry expertise and personal perspectives. 
• Joining us is a natural opportunity to strengthen your professional network through valuable relationships.
• Support the health and well-being of every employee by offering world-class benefits, meaningful work and competitive salary
• Performance driven culture with a strong focus on speed, efficiency and agility