Plennegy Research: Research Technician at Plennegy Group

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Breeding Operations


Monitor and report plant health, stress indicators, and abnormalities under field, net-house, and glasshouse conditions.
Organise weekly field walks with the farm manager, supervisor, and breeder (when available).
Execute planting schedules in coordination with the supervisor and field team.
Oversee seed processing including harvesting, drying, cleaning, treating, labelling, cataloguing, weighing, and cold-room organisation.
Collect and record field, tunnel, and nursery trial data accurately.
Execute and supervise hand pollinations (selfing and crossing).
Identify and report off-type plants.
Complete phytosanitary applications and support government officials during inspections.
Oversee and execute seed fumigation.


Molecular & Pathology Support


Organise and execute leaf sampling for DNA analysis.
Create sample lists and complete online submission forms.
Pack and dispatch seed for biotechnology and pathology projects.
Maintain accurate seed receiving and shipment records.
Upload and share DNA results on the seed-shipment platform.
Communicate molecular results to the team.


Maintenance


Report maintenance needs for tunnels, irrigation systems, equipment, and related infrastructure to the farm manager.
Report housekeeping and hygiene issues in tunnels, fields, and workrooms to the farm manager and team supervisor.


Supervision of Labour


Coordinate labour requirements with the breeder and supervisor.
Assist the supervisor in overseeing daily operations in the workroom, tunnels, and fields.
Promote productivity, efficiency, and safe work practices.
Report issues related to attendance and timekeeping to the farm manager and supervisor.


Stock Management


Maintain adequate stock levels of breeding supplies.
Communicate shortages to the farm manager.


Pest & Disease Control


Conduct daily scouting for pests and diseases in fields, tunnels, and net-houses.
Monitor chemical spray efficacy and report any issues.


Personnel Management


Assist in training new staff and provide seasonal refresher training for permanent staff.
Contribute to a positive work culture.


Requirements

REQUIREMENTS:

Education (Essential)


BSc in Genetics, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field (Diploma or Degree).
Drivers License.


Experience (Preferred)


Experience with vegetable or maize crop cultivation.
Experience in field, tunnel, or controlled-environment production.
Experience supervising or coordinating field labour.