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Research and Development Administrative Assistant

Salary undisclosed

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ABOUT US

Sun World International is a California-based agriculture and technology firm engaged in fruit variety development, technology, intellectual property, and licensing. Technology and Intellectual Property pursuits include one of the world’s leading fruit breeding/genetics programs, a broad-based portfolio of plant patents and trademarks and investments in agriculture technology start-ups benefiting its global licensees. Licensing consists of sharing new proprietary stone fruit, table grape, and sub-tropical fruit varieties and the IP they comprise, with like-minded fruit growers and marketers in more than 17 countries around the world. The Company prizes creativity, innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Its people strive for excellence by demonstrating leadership, passion, kindness, authenticity, courage, initiative, and curiosity.

About The Department

At the heart of Sun World’s business is a commitment to developing new fruit varieties that can be grown in a sustainable way and optimized for yield, flavor, and appearance. The R&D and Product Development program focuses on fast-moving technology and developing the next generation of fruit genetics to meet grower challenges and consumer expectations. The program is located at the Sun World Center for Innovation in Wasco, California -in the heart of San Joaquin Valley agriculture production. At Sun World you are part of a team that values passion, respect, and leadership to envision and create the future.

About The Opportunity

Do you love making sure that everything is running flawlessly? Or how about being the glue that holds our Innovation Center together? This role might be a great fit for you! Our Operations Specialist will play a critical role in supporting the efficient functioning of R&D operations at Sun World, ensuring that objectives are met and processes are streamlined. This individual will report directly to the Director of Operations and will oversee cost management, assist with recruitment efforts, maintain clear internal communication, coordinate events, organize extensive customer and stakeholder visits, assist with shipping aspects of material distribution around the globe, and champion sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and capable of juggling multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and manage programs for customer and stakeholder visits, ensuring a positive and informative experience. Coordinate schedules and arrange site tours to showcase the company. Gather and analyze feedback from visitors to continuously improve the visit program.
  • Ensure clear and transparent internal communication of updates, changes, and initiatives within the R&D and Product Development team. Implement strategies to improve transparency and foster a culture of open communication within the organization.
  • Manage and monitor the budget for the assigned cost center(s), ensuring all expenditures are within the approved limits. Collaborate with department heads to forecast financial needs and allocate resources effectively. Prepare regular financial reports and analysis to support decision-making processes.
  • Oversee the procurement process for all team needs, including farming-related supplies and equipment. Track inventory levels and ensure timely replenishment of business materials and supplies.
  • Support the development and implementation of procedures for shipping to international markets that ensure compliance with local regulations and customs requirements.
  • Provide support to worker safety programs that ensure compliance with all safety regulations and training to maintain a secure and hazard-free workplace.
  • Capture the company’s Center for Innovation sustainability metrics, identifying areas for improvement. Promote sustainable practices within the company and team, engaging employees in environmental stewardship efforts.
  • Coordinate travel arrangements for the Chief Science Officer including booking flights, accommodation, and transportation. Manage expense reports and reimbursements related to travel activities. Facilitate scheduling of key meetings and activities.

KEY LEADERSHIP ATTRIBUTES DESIRED

  • Embodies core values of humility, respect, integrity, innovation, and collaboration
  • Has a growth mindset and a tolerance for a highly complex and dynamic work environment
  • Highly effective in follow-through
  • Excellent organizational and multitasking skills, with a strong attention to detail
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills including verbal, written, and non-verbal communication
  • Desire to continue learning and growing
  • Has a strong customer service focus

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • 5+ years of related work experience in an administrative assistant or related role
  • Fluency in Spanish is a plus

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The position is regularly required to sit, use hands-to-finger, handle controls, and talk and hear. The employee is required to stand, walk, and stop. Employee must regularly lift and move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus, as well as work with a computer monitor and in the field.

Compensation

  • Target compensation range is $51,000 - $58,000 with a 10% annual bonus
  • Full benefit package including health, dental, vision and life insurance. 401K with match
  • Twenty vacation days to start
  • Amazing culture
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