Subtropical Plant Breeder

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine strawberry cultivars for Driscoll’s subtropical growing regions, including Florida, Mexico, Australia, and Morocco. Implement a hybridization strategy tailored to Florida’s strawberry breeding program, integrating genomic data and trait marker insights for designing crosses, and selecting parent plants and seedlings.

  Oversee the evaluation and introduction of blueberry selections in the southeastern U.S. Lead the assessment of hybrid strawberry seedlings and selections for horticultural traits, including field performance, yield, shelf life, and flavor. Make informed decisions regarding the selection and progression of strawberry varieties.

  Design and establish experimental test plots for strawberry variety development, focusing on host resistance. Manage host resistance trials for both strawberries and blueberries, coordinating with the Host Resistance department's staff for both field and laboratory trials.

  Collaborate closely with Breeding and Research departments and the grower community to design, install, and maintain field trials across the southeastern U.S., ensuring appropriate space allocation and securing host sites with local growers.

  Travel occasionally within the southeastern U.S. to support the establishment and assessment of test plots. Regularly collect, analyze, and report results to peers and growers through field tours and formal meetings.

  Supervise two research associates and occasional seasonal staff involved in the breeding program. Work in collaboration with Global Breeding Directors, Molecular Breeders, and the Molecular Biology department to develop and validate molecular markers. Ensure timely transmission of field data to plant breeding and research personnel in Watsonville through a centralized breeding database.

  Maintain close communication and collaboration with Driscoll’s Production staff at various locations. As part of the Eastern Region team, assist with grower-related challenges and work with the East Coast Applied Research Manager on cultural technique research, including supporting test plot experiments.

  Lead the local commercialization team, comprising district applied research and production personnel, to ensure the successful introduction and commercialization of new varieties in the Southeastern United States. This involves raising awareness of promising genetics, publishing practical production guides, and executing effective on-farm trials.

  Support other breeding and research initiatives by conducting and overseeing post-transit evaluations of fruit samples, including blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Occasionally travel to other regions such as California, Mexico, Morocco, and Australia to assist with research trials and production evaluations.

  Act as a liaison between growers and Plant Health personnel by relaying issues to the appropriate Research Department staff and assisting with sample collection and shipping.

  Embody Driscoll’s core values of passion, humility, and trustworthiness in all interactions. Foster a collaborative team environment by upholding fairness, a strong work ethic, and accountability, while leading by example. Utilize team-building and communication skills to align departmental and company goals.

  Adhere to company policies and represent Driscoll’s in a professional and ethical manner in interactions with employees, government agencies, and growers. Safeguard proprietary varieties and confidential information.

  Ensure the maintenance of a safe and professional work environment at the Research farm. Maintain the appearance, housekeeping, and safety of all work-related areas.

  Perform additional duties as directed by the supervisor.

Candidate Profile

• Ph.D. or equivalent in Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a closely related plant science with a focus on Plant Breeding. Candidates with a Master's degree or equivalent, along with substantial relevant experience, will also be considered.
• Experience with horticultural crops is preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a proactive and hands-on approach.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds intermittently.
• Must possess a valid Florida driver’s license or have the ability to obtain one.
• Spanish language skills are a plus.

Salary Range estimated for the Subtropical Plant Breeder: $82,530 to $105,840 USD.