Sweet Potato Breeding Technician - Temporary

Oterra is the global leader in naturally sourced colors for food, beverages, dietary supplements, and pet food. With over 140 years of expertise, we believe nature got it right the first time. Join our fast-growing, international team and help us make natural, healthy food accessible worldwide.

Location: Huacho, Peru - Full-time - Temporary Contract

Position Summary

The Sweet Potato Breeding Technician will provide operational support for sweetpotato seed production activities and the monitoring of industrial sweetpotato crops. The role involves supporting breeding programs, greenhouse and field operations, seed production, germplasm maintenance, and agronomic trials while ensuring accurate data collection and reporting.

• Support the production of sweetpotato vegetative seed in open-field and greenhouse environments, ensuring compliance with established breeding and seed production protocols.
• Produce vegetative seed through mini-cuttings and root sprouts under greenhouse conditions.
• Monitor the maintenance, multiplication, and conservation of sweetpotato germplasm in both greenhouse and field settings.
• Conduct field sampling activities to estimate yield, assess crop performance, and evaluate quality parameters.
• Execute and monitor field trials focused on the evaluation of new sweetpotato varieties and the optimization of agronomic practices.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain accurate experimental and production data to support breeding and seed production objectives.
• Train and supervise field and greenhouse workers on breeding, seed production, and crop management activities.
• Collaborate closely with breeding, agronomy, and operations teams to ensure the successful execution of research and production plans.
• Maintain effective communication with internal stakeholders and provide regular updates on project progress and field activities.
• Prepare monthly reports summarizing activities, trial results, production outcomes, and key data insights.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and operational standards in all breeding, greenhouse, and field activities.

• Technical degree, graduate, or Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Sciences, or Agricultural Engineering.
• Previous experience in agricultural production, seed production, plant breeding, crop management, or field research activities is preferred.
• Knowledge of greenhouse operations, field trials, and agronomic practices is an advantage.
• Ability to collect, manage, and analyze agricultural and experimental data.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to work in field and greenhouse environments.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to travel regularly between Huacho and nearby production sites as required.