About Pinnacle Berry Genetics
Pinnacle Berry Genetics is an established small fruit plant breeding company focused on developing innovative cultivars for the global berry industry. Supported by some of the most progressive berry growers and shippers in the United States, we are dedicated to delivering varieties that drive grower success, fruit quality, and long-term sustainability.
Benefits & Perks
We value our employees and offer a competitive benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal well-being, including:
- Health insurance reimbursement/allowance
- Dental and vision benefits
- Company-provided vehicle for work-related travel
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)/Sick time
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional development
Position Overview
Pinnacle Berry Genetics is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Plant Breeder to support the development of next-generation strawberry varieties. This role plays an integral part in all stages of the breeding program, including greenhouse and field research, trial management, data collection and analysis, and cultivar advancement. Working closely with breeding leadership, growers, and industry partners, the Assistant Plant Breeder will contribute to the evaluation and selection of superior genetics that deliver exceptional fruit quality, agronomic performance, and commercial value. The ideal candidate combines a strong foundation in plant science with a passion for field-based research, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving.
Key Responsibilities
- Support all phases of the strawberry breeding program, including crossing, selection, propagation, evaluation, and advancement of breeding populations.
- Assist with greenhouse, nursery, and field operations, including germplasm management, crossing blocks, seedling populations, and clonal propagation.
- Coordinate the establishment, maintenance, and evaluation of breeding, research, and commercial validation trials.
- Collect, manage, and analyze breeding and trial data related to yield, fruit quality, disease resistance, plant health, and overall performance.
- Evaluate breeding selections and provide recommendations to support advancement decisions.
- Maintain accurate breeding records, databases, and research documentation to ensure data integrity and traceability.
- Prepare reports, presentations, and summaries that communicate trial outcomes and varietal performance.
- Collaborate with growers, nursery partners, and research cooperators to ensure successful trial execution and data collection.
- Participate in field visits, grower meetings, variety evaluations, and industry events.
- Support cultivar commercialization efforts through the development of production recommendations and best management practices.
- Identify opportunities to improve breeding processes, operational efficiency, and the adoption of emerging technologies.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Plant Breeding, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Physiology, Agronomy, or a related field.
- 2+ years’ experience in plant breeding, horticultural research, agricultural production, or a related field; relevant internships may be considered.
- Strong understanding of plant biology, genetics, and plant physiology.
- Experience with field trial design, management, and data analysis.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data management systems.
- Familiarity with plant breeding software, databases, and related research tools is preferred.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency is preferred.
- Willingness and ability to travel regularly throughout California, Florida, and Mexico.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform field activities for extended periods.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move materials, equipment, and plant materials as needed.
- Ability to travel frequently to research, trial, and commercial production sites.
Pinnacle Berry Genetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age (40 and over), sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, reproductive health decision-making, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Pay: $71,000.00 - $82,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
