Seasonal Horticulture Lab Technician (Entry Level)

Job Description

Job Description

This is a seasonal position from December through May

JOB SUMMARY

Help ensure that crops grown at Proven Winners Carleton are free from potentially economically impactful viruses and disease. Collaborate with the growing team to accurately sample and test for pH & EC as well as for viruses to ensure a healthy growing environment for all crops. Support Proven Winners Mission statement and values in all job-related functions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Test soil/media from all crops using a rotation schedule approved by Product Line Managers (PLM’s) or pull samples as needed and perform accurate testing for pH & EC levels.
2. Pull tissue samples from crops using a rotation schedule approved by PLM’s or as needed and do consistent and accurate in-house testing for virus & disease.
3. Take tissue samples that arrive from incoming shipments. Prepare samples for sending to outsource testing labs. Perform in-house tests upon arrival as determined by PLM’s or Growing Department Leadership.
4. Periodically pull soil &/or tissue samples to be sent off-site for analysis as assigned by PLM’s.
5. Pull weekly water samples from our irrigation supply lines and perform accurate testing for free and total chlorine levels and communicate results to the growing team.
6. As needed, assist IPM team with collecting insect cards and record accurate insect counts.
7. Work with the Lab Supervisor on tracking all positive virus results. Collaborate with the growing team in developing action steps for each virus discovered.
8. Make sure Agdia and in-house test results are shared in a timely fashion with the growing team.
9. Run labels for production, offsites, garden ready as well as retail labels for traffic.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

1. Demonstrate analytical skills by identifying areas in need of improvement along with innovative suggestions to address challenges.
2. Recognize discrepancies in testing results. Trouble shoot and suggest potential solutions to challenges.
3. Complete all testing and become an expert on all processes by following established protocols after training.
4. Maintain a positive and cooperative attitude with all fellow employees and across all departments. Promote positive morale by working effectively as a team member. Act as an ambassador for our department whenever interacting with members of other departments and exemplify the values of cooperation, collaboration and teamwork.
5. Effectively communicate with all fellow employees. Communicate all relevant job-related information as needed. Report problems or challenges without delay.
6. Report to work as scheduled, maintaining a level of absences that results in minimal departmental disruption and minimal unfair burden on other employees.
7. Adjust schedule as needed. IE- demonstrate flexibility to work more or less hours depending on the needs of the department.
8. Utilize equipment only after completing the required training. Including but not limited to Tow Carts, Hi-Los, Scissor Lifts, Ladders, etc.
9. Perform all work as quickly and efficiently as possible, without compromising quality.
10. Participate in education programs as they are offered and continue to self-educate as needed when new plants, equipment, processes or techniques are introduced.

CORE VALUES:

• Collaborating as One Team, One Proven Winners : Our future success is rooted in how well we work together—as one team, who is accountable to each other. Open, transparent, and direct communication remain central to our culture. We value the diverse strengths and perspectives each person brings and are committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful environment where everyone feels safe to challenge and learn from each other.
• Embracing Continuous Improvement: Proven Winners was built on the belief that we could always offer something better. This mindset continues to guide us—whether improving our products, our capabilities, or how we work together. Embracing change strengthens our future and helps us continue leading the industry.
• Pursuing Excellence: From superior plant genetics to building the most trusted brand in horticulture, excellence has always defined Proven Winners. We hold ourselves to high standards across product development, customer service, operations, and internal processes. By striving for excellence in everything we do, we continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers, partners, and one another.
• Doing the Right Thing: Our brand is all about trust. We make ethical, transparent, and well-intentioned decisions, even when the outcome is difficult. We honor our commitments and rely on one another to act with integrity. Together, we uphold this value by caring for one another and the communities that we serve.
• Prioritizing Safety: We prioritize the safety of our employees above all else. Our approach is proactive and prevention-focused, ensuring we maintain safe facilities, provide proper training, and empower every employee to prioritize safety in their daily work

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

1. Previous lab knowledge or experience working in a lab setting is preferred
2. Prior experience with detail-oriented tasks that required high level of organization and creative problem solving.
3. Basic computer skills are required, more than a basic knowledge of computers is preferred.
4. Strong verbal and written communication skills are preferred

PHYSICAL ASPECTS

1. Bulk of the work is spent at a desk utilizing a computer and/or telephone and testing equipment.
2. Lifting a minimum of 35 pounds
3. Will be exposed to sun and/or high intensity lights when gathering samples or scouting in the greenhouses.
4. Will be exposed to prolonged standing and walking when gathering samples or scouting in the greenhouses.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Laboratory, greenhouse, warehouse and outdoor work settings. Peak season periods may require increased hours, responsiveness and flexibility. Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

NOTE

This job description does not exclude responsibilities not specifically stated, but that are apparent, related, or may develop in the normal course of duty.