Horticultural Specialist

Job Summary

The Horticultural Specialist supports Population Development and Trait Integration (PD&TI) research programs by ensuring precise, compliant, and reproducible greenhouse operations. The role involves hands-on management of controlled environment systems, crop health, and continuous operational improvement across multiple crops. This position enables high-quality scientific data generation while supporting Corteva’s responsible Care, biosafety, and sustainability commitments.

Key Responsibilities

• Greenhouse Operations & Compliance: Operate, monitor, and optimize greenhouse climate control systems (temperature, humidity, light, CO₂). Monitor environmental data and proactively respond to deviations. Support energy-efficient and resource-optimized greenhouse operations. Oversee preventive greenhouse maintenance and coordinate routine facility maintenance. Support audits, inspections, and compliance reviews.
• Crop Management & Agronomic Support: Provide agronomic support across multiple crops and research programs. Troubleshoot growth issues related to nutrition, irrigation, environment, or infrastructure. Drive continuous improvement in greenhouse practices and layouts. Ensure proper crop segregation, labeling, and experimental integrity.
• Planning, Coordination & Resource Management: Coordinate with project teams on bench space, crop planning, and shared resources. Conduct structured operational meetings to support project timelines.
• People Management & IPM: Train and supervise contractual staff on SOPs, biosafety, and IPM practices. Implement and oversee Integrated Pest Management strategies.

Qualifications & Experience

Education: Master’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Plant Science, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Experience: 3–5 years of experience in greenhouse operations, plant research facilities, or controlled environment agriculture.

Key Competencies: Strong understanding of controlled environment agriculture. Experience with IPM, and compliance standards. Ability to manage multiple crops and research priorities. Strong collaboration and communication skills