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Iceberg Lettuce Breeder

Location: San Juan Bautista, California
Employment Type: Full-time

This is why you want to be an Iceberg Lettuce Breeder at Enza Zaden

• Play a key role in developing high-quality lettuce varieties that deliver value to growers and markets
• Contribute to a competitive breeding pipeline aligned with global strategy and local market needs
• Work hands-on in both field and controlled environments, applying modern breeding techniques
• Be part of a collaborative, science-driven team that values innovation and continuous learning

What You'll Do

As a Lettuce Breeder, you will be responsible for developing a strong pipeline of lettuce varieties aligned with Enza Zaden's long-term vision. You will translate breeding objectives into practical plans and execute breeding activities to deliver high-performing varieties.

This is an operational, hands-on role where you will support breeding programs and contribute to continuous improvement in methods and outcomes.

• Translate breeding targets into clear, actionable breeding plans and timelines
• Prepare and coordinate all phases of breeding projects to support successful execution
• Execute breeding activities, including making critical plant and line selections at key stages of the breeding cycle
• Maintain accurate, detailed records throughout all breeding cycles and trials
• Evaluate data and make decisions on advancing materials to the next stages (R2 and beyond)
• Plan and coordinate trial production and screening activities
• Partner with Seed Production by handing over R3 material according to defined specifications and ensuring proper system registration (e.g., Varmas)
• Implement new technologies, traits, and methodologies to continuously improve breeding program outcomes
• Other duties as assigned.

Collaboration & cross-functional work

• Partner with Sales Representatives and Product Specialists during market visits to gather insights and align product direction
• Collaborate with Senior Scientists and Biotech Breeders to stay current with emerging technologies
• Work closely with Seed Operations and Seed Production to ensure smooth material handover and producibility
• Share knowledge and coordinate activities with Assistant Breeders and Breeding Technicians

What you bring as a future colleague

• Bachelor's degree in a related field required; master's in plant science preferred.
• Typically 5+ years of relevant experience in plant breeding and genetics (graduate-level experience acceptable).
• Proven success as a Breeder with demonstrated advancement of varieties and effective program execution.
• Strong knowledge of plant breeding, modern breeding methods, and phytopathology
• Familiarity with cultivation techniques and agricultural production environments
• Solid understanding of market needs and product development
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills
• Works well independently when needed and thrives in a collaborative team environment
• Proficiency in English (written and verbal)
• Ability to work under varying weather conditions and travel up to 25% (domestic/international).
• Must meet eligibility requirements under the company's driver insurance policy.

Compensation & Benefits

• Estimated starting salary: $105,000 - $125,000 (good-faith estimate based on experience, skills, and location).
• Eligible for bonus plan.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, paid personal time off, paid volunteer time off, monthly fitness reimbursement, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Our Power

With more than 3,000 passionate team members around the world, Enza Zaden is dedicated to developing innovative vegetable varieties that help feed the world. Every day, over 480 million people enjoy vegetables grown from our seeds.

We are a family-owned company with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, focused on innovation, collaboration, and long-term impact. At Enza Zaden, your work truly makes a difference.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Enza Zaden is an equal opportunity employer.