Technical Growing and IPM Specialist

About Syngenta At Syngenta Vegetables and Flowers, we're cultivating tomorrow's variety through innovative breeding that brings vibrant colors to gardens and nutritious vegetables to tables worldwide. We combine centuries of seed heritage with cutting‑edge innovation to develop resilient, high‑performing varieties that thrive in diverse climates. Join us in shaping the future of sustainable horticulture, where every seed holds the potential to enhance lives through better nutrition and natural beauty. Job Description Syngenta Flowers North America is one of the largest wholesale breeders of hybrid flower seed and cuttings in the world – developing and producing flower seeds and cuttings for growers internationally. We are dedicated to breeding innovative flower varieties that offer outstanding performance in the professional greenhouse, at retail, in the landscape and in the home garden. To support this mission, Syngenta’s R&D is seeking a Technical Growing & IPM Specialist in Gilroy, CA. The Technical Growing & IPM Specialist will lead the implementation and management of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems across the Gilroy site to ensure compliance with all regulatory, phytosanitary, and certification standards. Serve as the primary owner of audit and certification processes, including Global GAP, NAKT, and county inspections, while driving adherence to HSE and phytosanitary protocols. Execute and oversee IPM and growing procedures including environmental control and innovation in growing to deliver the highest quality trials and crops in support of R&D objectives. Serve as backup to the Head Grower, providing leadership and decision‑making support in their absence. Accountabilities Lead implementation and management of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems across the Gilroy site, including all scouting, spraying, and fumigation activities to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, IPM protocols, and Worker Protection Standards (WPS). Serve as primary owner of audit and certification processes including Global GAP, NAKT, and county inspections; maintain accurate records of all pesticide applications, submit required reports to county agencies, and manage all training with site personnel and written regulatory programs. Monitor and diagnose crops for insect, disease, and physiological issues across all growth stages; visually inspect crops proactively to identify and address quality, health, or environmental concerns in support of R&D objectives. Oversee irrigation and fertigation management including pour‑through testing and data analysis; monitor and adjust environmental controls through the Argus system and cross‑train team members on system operations. Manage chemical inventory to ensure proper storage, handling, and regulatory compliance; monitor usage and costs to optimize budget efficiency and ensure all IPM equipment is maintained for safe, efficient, and effective operation. Lead greenhouse and field trials to test and implement improvements to current growing and IPM practices; drive innovation in growing procedures and integrated pest management strategies to deliver highest quality trials and crops. Develop and maintain schedules for scouting, spraying, and growing activities aligned with trial timelines; track KPIs related to crop quality, pest management, and operational efficiency; serve as backup to Head Grower providing leadership and decision‑making support in their absence. Qualifications Required: Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without requiring current or future sponsorship. A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field with 3+ years of experience in greenhouse or nursery operations; OR 5+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree. Must have or be able to obtain a CA pesticide applicators license within 6 months. Experience with IPM (Integrated Pest Management). Experience working in a controlled environment greenhouse. Understanding and knowledge of relevant, current industry standards and their application to technical workflow. Experience successfully supervising a team. Proficient in basic computer programs (e.g., Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint, PowerPoint, etc.). Bi‑lingual in English and Spanish (written and oral) required. Desired Argus system experience. Additional Information Salary for this position ranges between $64,000 - $80,000 annually. What We Offer A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work‑life balance that supports the team members. Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs. Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day. 401(k) plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution. Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits. Equal Opportunity Employer 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr