Trait Assessment Technician

At Syngenta Seeds Field Crops, we're shaping the future of agriculture and empowering farmers to meet the ever-growing demand for food and fuel. We’re a global Ag Tech powerhouse, headquartered in the United States, with passionate, local experts collaborating with farmers to deliver solutions that create market opportunities.  We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for unmatched in-field performance.  Our seeds help mitigate risks such as disease, insect, weed, and extreme weather pressures, all while promoting sustainable farming practices that protect and enhance our planet. Join our mission of revolutionizing food security and transforming agriculture.

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta's Trait Assessment team is seeking a Trait Assessment Technician in El Ejido, Spain.

This role will support the delivery of phytopathology research and new variety development by performing essential laboratory, greenhouse, and growth room operations. The successful candidate will work in state-of-the-art facilities, conducting trials and tests that contribute to the optimization of trait assessment protocols and the advancement of disease-resistant crop varieties.

Accountabilities:

Phytopathology Research & Trial Execution

• Execute phytopathology assays following established protocols under the guidance of Research Associates and Scientists.
• Perform a wide range of tasks including data collection, trial preparation, pathogen maintenance, inoculum preparation, inoculation, and phenotyping of routine tests.
• Conduct plant maintenance activities in controlled environments such as labs, growth rooms, and greenhouses.

Laboratory & Inventory Management

• Manage lab consumables and inventory efficiently, ensuring optimal stock levels and timely replenishment.
• Maintain equipment according to instructions and proactively signal any malfunctions or maintenance needs.

Data Management & Documentation

• Capture, enter, and report data accurately using MS Word, Excel, and other relevant software according to internal standards.
• Maintain precise documentation to support decision-making in new variety development.

Biosafety & HSE Compliance

• Operate in modern infrastructure according to best biosafety and HSE practices at all times.
• Demonstrate individual responsibility for health and safety, acting in a safe manner and complying with safe systems of work.
• Look out for the safety of colleagues and contribute to a culture of safety excellence.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure optimal operation of the Trait Assessment department.
• Address issues and deviations from standards by working closely with the team.
• Communicate effectively in an R&D environment, asking questions for clarification and informing about potential delays or quality issues.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree or technical diploma in Agronomy, Agriculture, Plant Science, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in pathology (preferably horticulture) within an R&D or production environment, including work in controlled conditions, laboratories, and greenhouses.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of plant biology and phytopathology with demonstrated ability to follow technical protocols accurately.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and datasheet tools (e.g., Smartsheet).
• Ability to learn new processes and techniques quickly through training or self-learning.

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail with effective communication skills in a collaborative R&D environment.
• Fluent in Spanish (verbal and written); basic English proficiency.
• Proactive, safety-conscious mindset with understanding of how individual tasks contribute to team objectives.

Location: El Ejido, Spain

Work Environment: Modern laboratories, greenhouses, and controlled growth rooms

Team: Collaborative R&D environment working alongside Research Associates and Scientists

What We Offer

• Work-life balance: we offer flexible working hours to support a healthy balance between personal and professional life.
• Remote work: we have a remote work policy applicable when the nature of the role allows.
• Trust: we believe that freedom, trust, and responsibility are the foundation for our teams to grow and reach their full potential.
• Competitive compensation: a comprehensive package including fixed salary, bonus, pension plan, life insurance, and a wide range of flexible benefits to choose from (Meal Vouchers, WellHub, among others).
• Professional development: opportunities for growth and career advancement.
• Continuous learning: training programs with access to platforms such as Degreed, LinkedIn Learning, and language courses.

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. 

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