Agriculture Research Associate

We are seeking a motivated, hands-on Agricultural Research Associate to support onion breeding and seed production in Mesquite, New Mexico. This role works across the full production cycle, including planting, pollination, harvest, seed processing, trial support, and field data collection.

What You’ll Do

Key responsibilities include:

· Coordinate breeding trials, including setup, planting, evaluation, harvest, and data entry.

· Supervise seasonal labor crews to complete field operations safely, efficiently, and accurately.

· Coordinate onion seed isolation cages, including setup, maintenance, and removal.

· Plant, harvest, clean, process, label, inventory, and store onion bulbs, seed, and research lots.

· Work with the Farm Manager to organize daily field priorities and address field challenges.

· Support customer and research trials in coordination with sales representatives.

· Operate and maintain equipment while keeping work areas organized and safe.

· Support onion breeding, research, and commercial seed production activities as needed.

What We’re Looking ForRequired Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in biology, horticulture, agronomy, plant science, or a related field; or five years of relevant agricultural experience in lieu of a degree.

· Knowledge of agriculture and interest in plant breeding or seed production.

· Strong leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to supervise and motivate seasonal employees.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to seasonal demands.

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.

· Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

· Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform physically demanding work.

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience in agricultural research, commercial agriculture, seed production, or crop production.

· Experience leading employees or seasonal labor crews.

· Familiarity with irrigation systems, field equipment, or research trial management.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time salaried position. Typical hours are eight-hour days, Monday through Friday, with some Saturday work required during planting, pollination, and harvest seasons.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

· Competitive salary based on experience

· Comprehensive health and benefits package

· 401(k) and profit sharing

· Company-provided vehicle, cell phone, and computer

· Four weeks of paid leave provided at the beginning of each year, prorated in the year of hire based on start date, with additional leave earned through years of service

· Professional growth and long-term career advancement opportunities

Why Join Our Team?

Join an experienced team committed to integrity, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. If you are dependable, resourceful, and interested in building a long-term career in the seed industry, we encourage you to apply.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person