Research Associate

 DLF North America is currently recruiting for a Research Associate (Greenhouse) for our operation located in Touchet, WA.

DLF Group is the world leader in the development and sale of high-quality grass seeds for the agricultural and (professional) lawn market. By continuously developing new innovative varieties and products, and with a strong focus on quality and reliability, DLF Group offers demonstrable value to the business of their customers and other relationships.

DLF North America SBU, is one of our four Strategic Business Units. DLF employees are characterized by a high level of competency, passion, and commitment. In everything we do we act with respect, trust and integrity.

Come grow with DLF!

Check us out www.dlf.com (Global) & www.dlfpickseed.com (USA) & visit our careers page at https://careers.dlf.com.

About the job

The Research Associate will be part of a team dedicated to creating alfalfa seed products for North America.  This role will lead greenhouse activities associated with developing populations and clonal cuttings for use in the greenhouse and field projects as directed by breeders. They will utilize mechanical and agronomic knowledge to manage field plots and greenhouse projects dedicated to developing future alfalfa products. As research technology continues to change and improve, the Research Associate will have the opportunity to learn new methods and contribute their own ideas in the process.

This role will utilize communication skills to effectively plan and balance workload with the team.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage projects related to plant propagation, disease screening, and breeding population development.
• Maintain plant health with watering schedules, nutrient management and organization in the greenhouse.
• Establish and manage field seed production nurseries as well as winter greenhouse projects.
• Oversee forage quality sampling of trials and nurseries, including drying and grinding processes.
• Oversee part-time labor crews performing various field tasks, such as seed harvest and threshing.
• Manage seed inventory and process seed requests.
• Assist with maintaining pathogen cultures for testing and screening on site.
• Insect rearing for pest screenings and bees for pollination.
• Assist with various duties as needed.

Physical working conditions includes sitting, bending or standing while performing various tasks. Frequent walking, lifting up to 50 pounds, and continuous use of hands for repetitive tasks are occasionally required. This position works frequently in the fields; therefore the Research Associate will be exposed to potentially hazardous weather conditions and will be required to wear appropriate PPE when handling tools and equipment to avoid chemical exposure.  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Biology, or related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in field research, plot management, production agriculture, with greenhouse management and plant propagation preferred.
• Demonstrated competency in team leadership, communication, supervising small crews, project design, workload planning, and prioritization.
• Excellent communication and problem solving skills.
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking, prioritization skills and follow-up skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including handheld and desktop computers, and other database software.
• Valid driver’s license.

Compensation and Benefits: 

DLF USA Inc. offers a competitive compensation plan with base salary, benefits that include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a 401k plan, paid holidays, and vacation & paid personal days. Compensation will be based on experience.

Why work for DLF? 

We do good things! Grass is more than just a pretty sight – it helps fight climate change by trapping carbon and preventing soil erosion, making it a vital ally in preserving the environment. Grass acts as a natural filter, purifying water and improving air quality, while also providing essential habitats for diverse wildlife, showcasing its crucial role in supporting biodiversity and sustaining ecosystems. Grass feeds animals. Grass produces oxygen. Just a few reasons.... and many more! Check us out!

Ready to make an impact? We invite you to come and grow with us!

If you meet the above qualifications and are interested in joining our DLF team, please apply to the role on our careers page. https://careers.dlf.com. Please upload your resume and a cover letter highlighting your talent and why you fit this role.

We thank all applicants who apply for this position but advise only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

DLF USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Accommodations for job applicants with disabilities will be provided upon request during the recruitment, assessment, selection, and placement process. Alternate format available upon request.