Location: Myakka, Florida (On-Site)
Schedule: Full-Time, Exempt
Job Title: Tomato Breeder
Reports To: Senior Breeder
Purpose of the Role
The Breeder is responsible for developing a competitive pipeline of crop varieties aligned with Enza Zaden’s long-term strategic vision. This role focuses on delivering high-quality varieties that meet internal production and commercial requirements, as well as external market demands, while creating measurable added value. The Breeder contributes to breeding program activities through planning, execution, evaluation, and implementation of breeding strategies under moderate supervision.
Key Responsibilities
- Translate defined breeding objectives into clear, actionable operational breeding plans, ensuring alignment with strategic targets.
- Prepare all necessary materials, resources, and trial designs required to effectively execute breeding activities.
- Carry out breeding program activities, including making critical plant and line selections at key stages of the breeding cycle to ensure genetic advancement and program success.
- Maintain detailed, accurate, and timely records throughout all breeding cycles, ensuring traceability and compliance with internal standards.
- Evaluate breeding material and make informed decisions regarding advancement to R2 stages. Plan and coordinate trial production and screening trials accordingly.
- Transfer R3 material to Seed Production in accordance with defined specifications and ensure proper documentation and registration in designated systems (currently Varmas).
- Support the implementation of new technologies, traits, and methodologies into the breeding program to enhance efficiency and outcomes.
- Capable of independently executing assigned breeding activities.
- Primarily operates within the Breeding function, with limited cross-functional responsibilities.
Experience & Education
- Master’s degree or higher, preferably in Horticulture/Plant Breeding or related field.
- 3–5 years of relevant experience.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Must be eligible for coverage under the company’s auto insurance policy.
Skills & Competencies
- Proficient in the use of Excel and Outlook.
- Proficiency in computer breeding database programs, or the ability to quickly learn new systems and software
- Strong written and spoken English skills required; Spanish proficiency is preferred but not required.
- Strong understanding of plant breeding principles, modern breeding techniques, and phytopathology.
- Knowledge of various cultivation practices and crop production systems.
- Basic to intermediate understanding of market dynamics and customer needs
- Strong communication and analytical skills.
Working Conditions
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and move items up to 30 lbs.
- Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping will be necessary to manipulate plants in the field.
- Indoor and outdoor work in varied climate environments, including exposure to both hot and cold conditions.
- Travel required up to 20% of the time (domestic and international).
Compensation & Benefits
The following information is provided in good faith as a general description of the pay range and benefits for the position posted. The actual compensation offered to the successful candidate is dependent upon experience, skills, education, and other objective job-related factors.
Estimated Starting Salary Rate: $77,000-$92,000. The starting salary is offered in good‑faith, based on role level, skill, qualifications and local market data.
Enza Zaden offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision plans
- Life & disability insurance
- 401k Retirement plan with employer match
- Paid personal and volunteer time off
- Monthly fitness reimbursement
- Eligible for discretionary bonus plan.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
More details about benefits will be provided during the application process.
