Research Technician
West Sacramento, California | Full Time
At Nufarm, we deliver VALUE BEYOND YIELD® through innovative seed technologies and plant-based solutions that support growers and customers around the world. With more than 3,000 employees globally and world-class innovation centers, we are committed to advancing sustainable agriculture through science, innovation and collaboration.
We are seeking a Breeding Technologies Technician to join our R&D Breeding Services team in West Sacramento, California. Reporting to the Breeding Acceleration Manager, this role plays a key part in supporting laboratory and growth chamber research activities across crops including canola, carinata, camelina, sunflower, sorghum and energy cane.
What You'll Do
In this hands-on role, you will:
- Support all stages of the doubled haploid (DH) production pipeline, from donor plant management through to seed production.
- Perform microspore extraction, tissue culture and embryo development activities following established laboratory protocols.
- Collect, maintain and analyse experimental data while supporting workflow management and quality control processes.
- Assist with growth chamber activities, seed inventory management and plant care.
- Contribute to the development and improvement of DH protocols and research initiatives.
- Support genotyping, R&D and QA/QC sample processing as required.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, inventories and safe working practices.
What You'll Bring
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biotechnology or a related discipline.
- 1-5 years of experience in doubled haploid technology or plant tissue culture.
- Strong knowledge of tissue culture and aseptic laboratory techniques.
- Understanding of plant breeding concepts and methodologies.
- Excellent communication, organisation and interpersonal skills.
Preferred:
- Experience with Brassica crops, particularly canola and carinata.
- Experience with embryo rescue and microspore culture.
- Knowledge of molecular marker technologies.
What We Offer:
The base salary for this position ranges from $55,000 to $64,000 per year. Compensation is determined by several factors, including market location, and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. At Nufarm, we believe in total compensation. Depending on the position, additional forms of compensation may be included as part of a comprehensive package, alongside a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits.