About the role....

The Research Associate will work within the controlled environment team and be responsible for monitoring environmental conditions & programming environments to deliver the desired conditions within all growth rooms including irrigation systems. Additionally, this position will develop and oversee a preventive maintenance program that includes several systems and irrigation lines. Communication methods are essential to engage with team members and facilities team members to resolve systematic errors. This position desires a dynamic, self-motivated individual to join our fast-growing and collaborative team of scientists. Additionally, the associate will embrace best practices, report data and varietal observations. Activities will encompass all tasks to maintain uniform environments. The ideal candidate thrives in a rapid paced atmosphere, demonstrates flexibility and shows initiative and good judgment to achieve established goals and deliverables. This position is based in West Lafayette, IN.

As a Research Associate-Greenhouse, you will…

• Daily monitoring of environmental conditions via ARGUS software and walkthroughs
• Programming irrigation schedules on request primarily with ARGUS software
• Collaborate with team members to develop a track and trace process for all environmental change requests to be recorded and completed
• Develop and perform routine preventive maintenance monitoring of designated mechanical systems
• Collaborate closely with team members regarding proper environmental conditions and interact closely with facilities team to resolve system errors and communicate repair needs 
• Oversee soil mixing and pot filling equipment when in operation
• Assist with supervisory responsibilities of contract employees to maintain facility cleanliness
• Willingness to participate during Holidays and weekends to perform critical activities
• Lead and maintain environmental data collection, management and basic analysis to share and communicate the findings to team members
• Contribute to process improvement and optimization brainstorming and experimentation
• Learn and apply applicable regulatory, stewardship, quality management systems, and environmental, health and safety requirements

You Bring…

• BS in plant sciences or closely related discipline (plant physiology, agronomy, horticulture); AS in a similar discipline or 5 years relevant experience may be considered in lieu of education

• Knowledge of ARGUS or similar environmental control programming
• Experience in contained environments with major commercial crops 
• Excellent time management and organizational skills 
• Effective communication skills, both written and oral
• Ability to multitask and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, production environment
• Ability to work in a team and independently
• Willingness to work weekends and Holidays
• Willingness and capability to supervise assistants and develop leadership skills
• Creative and strategic thinking, willingness to be bold and take risks
• Proficiency in Microsoft and Google software
• Exposure to managing environmental data 
• Collaborative workmanship within and across functions