JOB TITLE:  Northern Strawberry Production Specialist

LOCATION:  Watsonville, CA

Job #:  8068
 

Driscoll Strawberry Associates (Driscoll’s) is the berry industry market-leader, with the greatest sales revenue and brand recognition in the berry category.  As one of the most differentiated brands in produce, Driscoll’s fosters relationships with top retail, wholesale and foodservice operations.  Driscoll’s is developing a worldwide presence as a brand leader in 5 continents and holds fruit patents and trademarks in 41 countries.  We currently have an opening for a Northern Strawberry Production Specialist.

PURPOSE:  To be one of the key resources available to Driscoll's and their contract growers for communication and compilation of accurate forecasting information.  Provide an additional active link between Strawberry Growers and Driscoll's to promote alignment and profitability in meeting Driscoll's mission.

JOB SUMMARY:  Represents Driscoll’s in the field to strawberry growers in Northern California.  Works with growers to monitor and collect information on acreage, cultural practices, forecasting, varieties and yields with an eye towards grower and Driscoll profitability.  Provides the growers with updates on recommended production practices.  Analyzes field data and independently communicates Driscoll’s goals and objectives to the Strawberry Grower base.  Compile production information to establish a rolling 7-day and 5-week strawberry production forecast.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  BS degree in agriculture or other horticultural science is preferred.  However, 3 or more years of agricultural field experience would also be considered.  Knowledge of strawberry production would be preferred.  Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred.  PCA license desired.  Ability to work and communicate independently and contribute to group processes is critical.  Strong organizational and writing skills.  Must be fair, impartial, and diplomatic.  Position requires moderate walking and bending during field evaluation processes.  Ability to lift 50 lbs.  Must maintain a valid CA driver license.  Will need to work extended hours and be flexible with work schedules to accommodate travel, forecasting and field visits.  High proficiency with Excel spreadsheets and database systems including the ability to create and work with detailed planning models.  Good math and analytical skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Communication:  Communicate strawberry field observations and gather feedback.  Analyze business and field data.  Work independently to assist growers in identifying problems and recommend solutions that may improve overall success.  Collaborate and communicate effectively with all other internal customers for greater efficiencies and attainment of DSA’s strategic plan.  Participate in grower meetings.

• Strawberry Production Monitoring:  Independently monitor all aspects of strawberry production by visiting fields, talking with growers, and collecting data on variables that impact commercial production (e.g. flower counts, pest pressures, soil conditions, irrigation practices, variety influences, acreages, etc.)  Accumulate industry and competitive information during travel, which will assist in planning, and decision-making process of the Production Group.

• Supervising:  seasonal, administrative or internship position employees by supporting and promoting safety, development, training and evaluation on a continuous basis.

• Nurtures, supports, and promotes the Company Mission to continually delight Berry Consumers through alignment with our Customers and our Berry Growers and exhibits the Company Values.

• Follows Company policies and practices while representing Driscoll’s in an ethical and business-like manner in all interactions with employees, government agencies, growers, customers, etc.  Ensures the confidentiality of all of Driscoll’s proprietary information.

• Ensures effective collaboration and communication with all other internal customers for greater efficiencies and attainment of DSA’s strategic plan.

• Candidate will be responsible for creating, maintaining and communicating the rolling 7-day and 5-week strawberry forecast for Northern California.  Will communicate to growers:  Driscoll’s market, research and nursery information to assist them in meeting the company’s goals and objectives of balanced supply.  Candidate will communicate to the production management group grower feedback regarding crop and variety development issues.

• Performs other duties as instructed by supervisor.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature of the work performed by employees in this job.  It is not an exhaustive list of all the job’s responsibilities.  At Driscoll’s, all of our jobs include broad responsibilities for continually improving.  We look forward to hearing from you!

If interested in applying, please go directly to our company website at www.driscolls.com and find our job listings under “About Us” or submit your resume via email:  

www.driscolls.com