Trait Integration Specialist

**Description**:
We're hiring to join our **Trait Integration team**

Learn how you can be our voice in the conversation about the future of agriculture. As a Trait Integration (TI) Specialist you will be a key player in delivering traits by means of executing a variety of TI related tasks which will include specific field/controlled environment structures and lab activities. You must also be comfortable using computers and mobile devices. Most importantly, you need a collaborative attitude, good communication and critical thinking skills, and a commitment to quality. TI Specialists may be asked to serve as a crew lead, which entails supervising contingent workers.

**You Will Be Part of Growing Team**

As a Trait Integration team, we are responsible for efficiently delivering inbred lines converted to transgenic herbicide tolerant and/or insect resistant traits. These converted inbred lines contribute to protecting hybrid yields against insect and weed pressure, supporting our goal to feed the world through innovation and integrity.

**Your Challenge**:

- Must have the ability to meet deadlines, show attention to detail, succeed in a team environment, and use a computer and other data collection devices
- Support and manage nursery staff where such a need is identified, enabling a high standard in conversion quality.
- Ensure full implementation of quality management protocols and ensure safety operating procedures is in place for all routine tasks
- Ensure that data are collected accurately and consistently uploaded to databases.
- Planning and executing nursery operations at the site, including the use of proprietary software.
- Assist with planting, transplanting, sampling, data collection and harvesting in greenhouses.
- Ensure that the work area is kept safe, clean, and orderly
- Phenotypic and genotypic selections in field and greenhouse nurseries
- Participate in and lead seed processing activities, including seed preparation, sorting, shelling, and inventory management
- May be required to work overtime, public holidays, and some weekends when needed to perform core duties
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary team environment
- Required to travel to other nurseries sites in other RSA regions on a regular basis
- Multitasking, working under pressure, being hands-on and being proactive are essential for success in this role
- Work with Genetically Modified Organisms in accordance with government regulations and internal company policies
- Regularly scout greenhouses and have continual visits to ensure optimum plant development and health
- Analyze operational efficiency metrics of work performance and processes to ensure continuous improvement through innovation.
- Lead and participate in process improvement and internal research projects
- Participate and lead training, guidance, and supervision of the activities of assistants and temporary employees
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary team environment
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Strong ownership for delivering high-quality results
- Demonstrate skills in leadership, operational safety, labor supervision, and time management.
- May be required to do physical lifting and will require working in varying ergonomic and physical environments, including outdoors and in hot, humid greenhouses
- High energy level and accountability, strong self-motivation, and a high degree of problem-solving skills
- A familiarity with the crop growing practices
- A passion for crop production
- Experience in trait introgression, genotyping and tissue sampling will be an advantage
- Energy and agility are also positive attributes for this role
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

**Key Stakeholders and Interactions**:
Trait Integration Specialist will be working with the local and global TI team. Occasional collaboration with breeding teams will be expected.

**Location**:
Delmas, Mpumalanga

LI-SD1

**Qualifications**:** To Grow What Matters, You Will Need**
- BSc or Honors in plant breeding, agriculture, agronomy, horticulture, plant biology or related discipline or equivalent experience in a related field, with at least 2 years of agricultural experience.
- Experience in plant breeding operations or trait integration will be an advantage.
- Individual must be results orientated, innovative, and have proven organizational ability.
- A valid driver's license is mandatory. Some more extended travel in RSA to field nurseries may be necessary during planting or harvesting campaigns.
- The ability to write and speak English fluently is essential as well as work in a team of diverse cultural backgrounds and languages

**Who Are We Looking For?**
- Curious, bold thinkers who want to grow their careers and be part of a winning team
- Market shaping individuals who want to transform the agriculture industry to meet the world's growing need for food
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