Senior Plant Breeder

Location: USA

Title: Senior Plant Breeder
Location:  USA

Experience: 10 years

Education: Ph.D/ M.Sc in Genetics and Plant Breeding, Horticulture or related field.

About Us:
US Agriseeds is a leading vegetable seed breeding company specializing in open-field cultivation. For over 20 years, we have delivered high-performing cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, melons, watermelons, and squash. With research facilities in California, Florida, and Sinaloa, Mexico, we ensure year-round breeding using natural counter-seasons. Our expert team leverages cutting-edge technology to develop innovative, high-yielding, and disease-resistant varieties.

Job Summary:
US Agriseeds is seeking an experienced Pepper Breeder to lead the breeding program for hot and sweet pepper varieties tailored to the US and Mexican markets. Support molecular biology and plant pathology programs in all US/Mexico breeding locations. This role requires expertise in plant breeding principles, molecular techniques, and market-driven variety development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Breeding commercially superior types of sweet and hot pepper hybrids for North and South America.
• Manage germplasm resources, including selection, characterization, and conservation of elite breeding materials.
• Design and execute multi-location field trials to evaluate performance under diverse environmental conditions.
• Assist and support the molecular biology and plant pathology efforts in US Agriseeds research locations.
• Analyze field trial data to make informed breeding decisions and optimize variety selection.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including seed production, sales, and marketing, to align breeding objectives with market needs.
• Stay updated with advancements in pepper breeding, genetics, and market trends.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and technical documentation to communicate research findings.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Master’s degree in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Crop Science; minor in Plant Pathology desirable.       Ph.D. degree in plant breeding a plus.

• Experience: Minimum 10+ years of experience in plant breeding with a proven track record in variety development. Experience in the US and Mexican markets is essential.
• A background in molecular markers, tissue culture or plant pathology would be a plus.   
• Proven track record in selection, development and release of commercial hybrids. 
• Experience in budget and personnel management, including recruitment and development of staff.
• Experience with data management, statistical analysis software

Knowledge & Skills:

• Proficiency in molecular breeding techniques, marker-assisted selection, and genomic tools.
• Knowledge of field trial design, data analysis, and statistical software.
• Familiarity with plant pathology and entomology related to pepper breeding.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work independently as well as within a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team-based environment with multidisciplinary teams. 
• Language skills: Fluent English required, Spanish a plus.
• Experience in an international work environment; ability to deal with various and diverse cultures and work habits.
• Must be willing to travel for extended periods of time nationally and internationally.

Work Authorization: U.S. Work Authorization

Start Date:  ASAP

Position:  Full time

Compensation:  Salary is based on experience with a competitive benefits package. The current pay scale for this role is from $120,000 to $150,000.  A good faith estimate of the pay range the company reasonably expects to pay a successful applicant for the current opening is in that range. The pay scale for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; degrees, licensure, and certifications; and other organizational needs. 

Location: Woodland, California, USA

Application Instructions: Please send resume (and brief cover letter).  Apply via Email to HR@usagriseeds.com  with “Pepper Breeder” in the subject line.

US Agriseeds is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, colour, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.