Plant Science Operations Technician

Full Time Position

Located in Tulare, CA 

About FYTO

At Fyto, we are partnering with farmers to build a sustainable food system at a global scale. Since launching out of MIT in 2019, we have developed an innovative technology platform that grows ultra-efficient, nutritious aquatic plants to feed people, plants, and animals. Our systems use much less energy, water, land, labor, and fertilizer than conventional approaches. Our momentum is due to our outstanding team and support from leading technology investors. Want to grow with us? We believe in helping you apply your talents in new and impactful ways. Join our team of engineers, scientists, and agri-business professionals to create solutions to today’s most pressing challenges.

About the Role

We’re building a first-of-its-kind production facility to cultivate aquatic plants at scale and are looking for an experienced and motivated Plant Science and Operations Technician. You will aid in the operation of an aquatic cropping system that is recycling nutrients from a commercial dairy farm while growing one of the fastest growing plants on Earth for use as feed and fertilizer. You will also work closely with Fyto’s Plant Science Team to collect data and monitor the health of multiple crop systems. This role will be critical for the Company’s success as this is Fyto’s first commercial operation.

We are seeking someone who will enthusiastically participate in our efforts (in collaboration with our broader team) to deliver safe, effective, and compliant operations as we scale. This position will be primarily based in the Visalia/Tulare area with some travel required to potential and future Fyto operations. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and are subject to a background check.

Requirements

What you’ll do

• Aid in the growing, harvesting, and processing of our aquatic crops
• Collect and interpret data surrounding plant health and resource use
• Aid in experimental setup, data collection, and analysis 
• Work with FYTO’s Plant Science and Operations Departments to execute data driven action items to optimize crop health and yield
• Operate a range of specialized equipment designed for our unique processes
• Perform routine site maintenance to ensure continuous operations
• Collaborate with the broader FYTO team to continually improve our products and deliver maximum value to our customers  
   

Your required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in physical or biological sciences or engineering.
• Experience conducting scientific experiments and data collection.
• Basic computer skills, including experience with MS Office (Excel, Powerpoint, and Word).
• Ability to work with minimal supervision in remote locations as well as with a team
• Have a valid driver’s license and good driving record with reliable form of transportation
• Quick learner who is flexible, motivated, detail oriented and able to thrive in a startup environment

Other preferred qualifications

• Degree or academic training in plant science, horticulture, agronomy, botany, farming or related field.
• Knowledge and experience with agriculture in California.
• Ability to problem solve, pinpoint inefficiencies, and create new standards of operations
• Ability to exercise caution in working areas when required
• Ability to work in a rapidly changing startup environment.

Physical activity requirements

• Walk across a variety of terrains, including uneven surfaces
• Climb, jump, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch and install equipment
• Stand for extended time periods
• Lift and carry up to 25 lbs but occasionally up to 50lbs
• Work in conditions with varying humidity, sunlight and temperatures (32°– 95° depending on the season)

Salary range: $50,000-$60,000/yr depending on experience. Benefits include medical, dental, vision benefits, 401k program and employee stock options.

Benefits

FYTO is committed to equal opportunity and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. FYTO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its recruitment processes and employment practices.

Fyto does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, or Fyto employees. Fyto is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.