Maize Greenhouse Manager

Description:

The Maize Greenhouse Manager performs duties associated with the production and maintenance of research plants at consistent levels of high quality within the Maize greenhouse/growth facility located on the campus of University of Missouri-Columbia. Duties are directly related to cultivation of maize to achieve maximum crop health and genetic purity. The Greenhouse Manager will ensure growth conditions are conducive to the consistent generation of donor plant material, propagation of plants to product to produce high quality seed and maize line crossing as needed. Communicates effectively and utilizes organizational systems to provide excellent service in support of research projects for Solis Agrosciences clients and collaborators.

Responsibilities:

·      Provide research plants with the optimum environment and inputs to achieve maximum health. Irrigate and fertilize appropriately for developmental stage. Monitor plants for symptoms of abiotic and biotic stress and provide an appropriate remedy promptly. Weekend work will be required as needed.

·      Maintain real time data records in Solis and GH systems

·      Monitor for insects and inform GH director of need for pesticide sprays. Keep accurate and orderly records.

·      Planting/transplanting /crossing; ensure seed purity of next gen by appropriate isolation during reproduction.

·      Maintain a clean growing environment:

o  Keep greenhouse benches and floors free of debris.

o  Sanitize work surfaces and floors as required.

o  Clean and turn over spaces between crop cycles

·      Properly dispose of regulated plant waste material following (devitalization and disposal)

·      Utilize Solis Agrosciences digital communication and notebook systems to efficiently and effectively communicate with co-workers, provide updates on task progress, and keep records as needed. Proactive ordering and maintenance of supplies. Appropriate and timely communication with site staff on required quantities of soil etc.

·      Ensure a safe and compliant work environment. Follow and promote pesticide safety regulations, general health and safety procedures, biosafety policies and regulations, along with standard stewardship and operational policies.

·      Maintain watering and fertilization regimes as outlined in specific SOPs

o  Assist with assembly of irrigation systems; operate irrigation valves to apply correct clear or fertilizer water treatments. Perform minor plumbing repairs for irrigation lines and hoses as needed.

o  Actively monitor fertilizer levels at injection stations, promptly replenishes and accurately mixes concentrated fertilizer solution according to SOPs.

·      Maintenance of infrastructure

o  Maintain general care of horticultural tools and equipment.

o  Daily monitoring of physical growing environment and equipment to help ensure proper environmental control, promptly reporting issues to General Manager and or Maintenance.

·      Assist with experimental trials to optimize crop growth and production systems.

·      Perform other duties as requested or assigned.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

·      Experience in maize cultivation and crossing within a controlled environment.

·      Basic understanding of Controlled Environment operations, control and maintenance

·      High attention to detail, ability to quickly learn new tasks and concepts while working in a fast-paced environment; inquisitive and communicative; effectively carry out duties in an independent manner.

·      Strong collaboration skills to work effectively with scientific personnel and onsite production staff. Able to communicate clearly and effectively verbally, in writing, and digitally.

·      Fundamental understanding of plant cultivation and propagation techniques, soils and water management, nutrient disorders and management and microclimate modification. 

·      Ability to learn how to scout and identify various greenhouse pests and pathogens. Subsequently learn how to apply appropriate control measures in alignment with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program procedures and best practices.

·      Competent using MS Office and web-based software to track and create tasks, generate reports and protocols, compile data, etc.

·      Ability to work in a physically challenging environment:

o  Working in hot, humid environments with temperatures as high as 95 degrees F.

o  Lifting heavy soil/waste bags and greenhouse supplies.

o  Frequent twisting to maneuver hoses and other items.

o  Repetitive operation of water nozzles and other tools. Fine hand movement to assemble irrigation and plant support systems, staking, tying, etc.

o  Ability to transport carts, cumbersome supplies, etc. up ramps. Ability to safely navigate narrow aisles and enclosed spaces.

o  Safely and appropriately working around and handling regulated plant material and research crops.

o  Working on feet for prolonged periods; daily, extended walking within a large growth facility.

Qualifications:

·      Associate degree or higher in Horticulture, or related field.

·      Minimum of 6 months of hands-on, relevant experience in maize production, especially in a greenhouse/ controlled environment setting.

·      An equivalent combination of skills, education and experience may be considered.

·      Some weekend and holiday work required

·      Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

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Responsibilities

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Qualifications

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