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.