We are looking for a talented and motivated Senior Crop Production Advisor/Agronomist to take the lead in the commercialization of our technology with large produce companies in key markets.
BioLumic is a New Zealand based start-up with a global outlook which has developed cutting-edge UV technology that significantly increases yields in produce. Our focus is on the development of technologies that control plant development, yield and quality in ways previously impossible. We are now looking to expand our team with the appointment of a Senior Crop Advisor/Agronomist to take the lead in customer trial management and the development of field protocols as we take our exciting technology to the next level.
Reporting to the CEO, this role will have responsibility for leading trials with customers who are using BioLumic’s proprietary technology. Based in Salinas, CA, this role has responsibility for: overseeing nursery-based light treatments; managing trials through the field growing phase; developing field protocols for UV treated crops from the nursery to harvest; and liaising with the customer. In addition, the role will require travel to oversee trials with potential customers in Mexico and Europe. The role will work closely with BioLumic’s Chief Science Officer and CEO, and will regularly interact with other BioLumic employees both in Salinas (nursery-based R&D Associate) and New Zealand, as well as our key customers in California/Arizona, Mexico and Europe.
This role will require someone with significant energy who is inspired by the opportunity of significantly improving yields with new technology. You will play a key part in the development of world-leading horticultural science that is immediately transferrable as beneficial outcomes for growers. High performance in this role will be extremely rewarding, and rewarded.
BioLumic USA is based at the Western Growers Innovation Centre for Technology in Salinas, California.
You will be part of a dynamic, high-performing, knowledgeable, supportive team within BioLumic.The role offers the opportunity to develop and execute challenging, leading-edge crop production advances, at a commercial interface with a global opportunity. BioLumic offers a competitive salary. As our company continues to grow rapidly, the right candidate will be given opportunities to take on additional responsibilities and be rewarded accordingly.
- Bachelor’s degree (or above) in Agricultural Sciences, Horticulture, or related field.
- Seven or more years' relevant experience.
- Advanced trial preparation, management and analysis.
- Harvest forecasting experience.
- Experience running trials with produce, ideally iceberg and romaine lettuce.
- Strong inter-personal, relationship development and management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experienced in use of word processing and spreadsheet software.
- Spanish proficiency would be an advantage.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Leading the effective and efficient delivery of customer trials.
- Managing production trials through transplanting, field growing, and harvest.
- Collection, collation, and analysis of data.
- Assessing and communicating crop production issues that can impact on trial results.
- Developing relationships with customers.
- Overseeing nursery UV treatments.
- Developing field protocols for UV treated crops that maximize yield from the nursery to harvest.
- Preparing reports for presentation to customers and the rest of the senior management team.
- Linking trial results with the company’s broader strategy.
- Communicate openly and clearly with other team members, including those in New Zealand.
- Have had responsibility for the effective and efficient delivery of trials and/or production with produce, ideally head lettuce and romaine.
- Have strong inter-personal, relationship development and management skills, including strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Have a strong record of sales and customer engagement.
- Be skilled in analyzing trial results and preparing reports.
- Have a can-do, problem-solving mentality.
- Be able to travel to oversee trials with customers in other countries.
- Go the extra mile to succeed – have a strong work ethic.
- Have a relevant tertiary qualification.
- Spanish proficiency would be an advantage.
