The Tissue Culture Lab Research Associate II is responsible for leading plant tissue culture production activities, optimizing workflow efficiency, troubleshooting laboratory issues, and ensuring high‑quality output across all stages of micropropagation. This role supervises daily operations within the tissue culture laboratory and collaborates cross‑functionally with teams including breeding, nursery, operations, clean stock, and plant health.
This position is highly hands‑on, supporting the full cycle of production from explant initiation through in vitro multiplication, rooting, and the successful transfer of plantlets to the greenhouse. The Research Associate II will also contribute to data collection, reporting, protocol optimization, and may participate in experimental design as needed.
Responsibilities
Fulfill production demands while maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
Adhere to SOPs and assist in setting up small‑scale trials designed to improve laboratory efficiency and workflow.
Supervise, guide, and direct tissue culture team members to complete daily tasks accurately and in a timely manner.
Perform tissue culture initiations, subcultures, and transfers needed for plantlet production across all micropropagation stages.
Monitor cultures to identify contamination or growth irregularities and report issues promptly.
Prepare and manage media, supplies, and materials required for ongoing production.
Maintain accurate records of production activities, batch numbers, and culture performance.
Ensure proper operation and cleanliness of laminar flow hoods, autoclaves, and other laboratory equipment.
Duties require manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to perform repetitive tasks efficiently.
Assist in greenhouse-based trials
Uphold the confidentiality of Driscoll's financial, proprietary, and employee information.
Represent Driscoll's in a manner consistent with the company's Mission and Values in all internal and external interactions.
Perform other duties as assigned. This job description reflects the general nature of the work performed and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities. All positions include broad responsibilities for contributing to ongoing improvement of processes used to support product development.
Candidate Profile
A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant hands‑on experience in plant tissue culture with strong proficiency in aseptic techniques.
BS in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, Biology, or a closely related field.
Supervisory experience in a laboratory setting, with the ability to lead, motivate, and train the tissue culture laboratory team.
Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.
Analytical and problem‑solving skills sufficient to identify issues and participate in developing solutions.
Ability to work in both laboratory and greenhouse environments, including extended periods at laminar flow hoods and in climate‑controlled areas.
Self‑motivated with strong communication skills and the ability to follow instructions, accept direction, and collaborate effectively with others.
Must have excellent time management, prioritization, and organizational skills.
Intermediate to Advanced Excel skills. Word, Outlook, and Power Point, proficient.
California driver's license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program.
Requirements
Experience with commercial scale micropropagation, including high-volume production workflows.
Familiarity with plant pathology, media optimization, or acclimatization of in vitro plantlets.
Experience using production tracking systems or other laboratory data collection tools.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range estimated for the Tissue Culture Lab Research Associate I I - Research and Breeding Greenhouse role : $76,810.00/year to $98,000.00 USD .
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Benefits
Health insuranceDental insuranceVision insurance401(k)Paid time offEquity / stock options
Driscolls · Us - Watsonville, CA