Careers

Position Summary

As a Research Assistant, during the growing season you are responsible for supporting Johnny's seed trialing team. Duties include assisting with trial establishment, data collection, crop care/maintenance, data entry, preparation for internal and external presentations and supplier visits. This is a full-time, year-round position with benefits. Approximately 75% of the year will be spent on Johnny's Research Farm and the balance at either our warehouse in Winslow or our call center in Fairfield. Actual start and end dates on the farm will vary depending on role in other facilities as well as workload with potential dates as follows:

• Farm Season Start Date:
  • Earliest start date: April 1st
  • Latest start date: May 1st
• Farm Season End Date:
  • Latest end date: December 31st
  • Earliest end date: November 1st

Responsibilities

• You support all aspects of Product Development variety trialing and activities including but not limited to seeding, thinning, labeling trays and stakes, transplanting and direct-seeding, crop maintenance, harvesting and data collection.
• You collaborate with Product Technicians and Farm Crew to accomplish field work tasks efficiently and accurately.
• You keep flower/vegetable storage and processing areas clean and organized (washing and sanitizing buckets; organizing the cold storage facilities)
• You support Product Development Team in preparation for internal presentations and educational events.
• You support Product Development Team by organizing agendas and meals for visitors.
• Maintain weekly task calendar and set schedule for required tasks.
• May support other research departments and farm operations as directed.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Related College Degree recommended.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience and knowledge of general agricultural practices and techniques
• Familiarity with basic Microsoft Office tools (Outlook, Word, Excel)
• High attention to detail and accuracy, in both hands-on tasks and record keeping
• A work ethic comfortable with hands-on activities in the field and in the greenhouse
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively on own or as part of a team
• Comfortable coordinating and leading project work, sometimes without direct supervision
• Availability to work extended hours during peak times in the season
• Bring a positive attitude to the job, self-motivated, and enjoy working with a diverse group of people
• Interest in agricultural research
• Persistence and a strong work ethic
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Valid Maine driver's license

Physical Requirements

• Capable of working outdoors in less-than-ideal weather conditions
• Ability to bend, pull, and lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work varied hours/days as business dictates
• Excellent manual dexterity
• Reliable transportation

Benefits

• Customary Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan & Profit Sharing
• 401(k)
• Employee Discount
• Maternity/Paternity/Adoption & Foster Care Leave
• Paid Time Off
• Educational Assistance

JOHNNY’S SELECTED SEEDS was established in 1973 by our Founder, Rob Johnston, Jr. Today we are 100% Employee Owned. Johnny’s mission is Helping families, friends, and communities to feed one another by providing superior seeds, tools, information, and service.

Johnny’s is renowned for our exceptional customer service offering seeds, tools, supplies and information to direct-market growers and avid home gardeners. We source, breed, trial, and sell outstanding selected varieties of vegetables, cut flowers, herbs, and farm seed, as well as thoughtfully designed tools and equipment. We take pride in the wealth of information and depth of experience we offer our customer base, nationwide and globally.

We are a strong, stable company focused on growth while still maintaining our small company feel and staying true to our roots. Beautiful Central Maine, where our research farm, warehouse, and offices are located, is the perfect launching point for an active, four-season lifestyle. Geographically situated halfway between Maine’s mountains and its 4500-mile-long coastline, we’re a short drive away from resorts, parks, and harbors renowned for a rich diversity of recreational and cultural opportunities.

If you are passionate about good, healthy food and would choose to work for a company with fellow co-owners who are passionate about our mission and values, Johnny’s may be the place for you!

Johnny’s Selected Seeds is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability or handicap, or veteran status.

06/06/2024