Breeding Assistant Pickling Cucumber

Function

Support the Breeder in the development of lines and hybrids for the creation of new gherkin varieties. In this role, you will make an important contribution to the development of our future varieties.

You will be part of the Cucurbits R&D team and work closely with the Breeder. Together, you will be responsible for a large part of the operational execution of the breeding program. You enjoy combining practical (hands-on) work with administrative tasks and feel comfortable in a dynamic working environment. You are an enthusiastic and proactive team member with a structured way of working and enjoy both physical work and contributing administratively to the success of the program.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the execution, administration, processing, and reporting of:
  • the development and maintenance of elite seed stocks of hybrid parental lines
  • seed production of new experimental hybrids

Manage the seed inventory of breeding materials

• Support and execute trials, including:
  • Sowing and planting

• Sampling, evaluation, and maintenance of trial environments
• Crossing activities
• Seed harvesting
• Assist the Breeder with trial evaluations and selection decisions
• Enter and maintain collected data in the administrative system
• Implement new technologies within the breeding program
• Prepare breeding trials in the Netherlands and abroad, including shipment of seed to trial locations
• Collaborate with Operations through timely planning and clear guidance on crop management requests
• Organize marker-assisted selection (MAS) and doubled haploid (DH) logistics, including sampling, plant selection, and labeling
• Maintain regular communication with the Breeder and proactively address issues requiring the team's attention
• Build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders

What we expect of you

• Also suitable for junior candidates (with no prior experience) who demonstrate the right attitude, eagerness to learn, and motivation to develop within plant breeding
• Completed MBO Level 4 education (or equivalent vocational qualification) in the agricultural/horticultural sector, with a demonstrated interest in plant breeding
• Team player with strong communication skills and a positive, proactive attitude
• Affinity with greenhouse work; you have “green fingers” and a genuine interest in plant growth and development
• Good administrative and digital skills (including Microsoft Office, databases, and data registration systems)
• Accurate, organized, methodical, resilient under pressure, and solution-oriented
• Good command of the English language, both spoken and written

Your benefits and working environment

• 25 days paid holidays (by full time employment)
• 13 days paid ATV (by full time employment)
• Vitality leave to facilitate sustainable employability (number of days depending on age)
• Holiday allowance of 8,33%
• Hybrid working policy (depending on the job)
• Flexible working hours (depending on the job)
• Lease-a-bike to promote sustainable employability
• Discount on collective health insurances with CZ and Nationale Nederlanden
• Commuting allowance according to the CLA for Horticultural Seed Companies
• Free fresh fruits
• Free fresh vegetables to take home in the growing season
• CLA for Horticultural Seed Companies
• Career opportunities within Limagrain Group (access to all vacancies, locally & abroad)
• Leaning & Development opportunities (Limagrain Group)
• Working with passionate colleagues
• Active Employee Association (regular events, e.g BBQ & Padel)

Recruitment process

Our recruitment process consists of two interviews (we may deviate from this process in particular cases, in which you will be informed in advance.)
The first interview focuses on understanding the candidate’s background, experience, and motivation for the role, as well as assessing overall fit.
The second interview is more in-depth and explores role-specific skills, competencies, and alignment with the team and company culture. A final decision is made following this stage.

Candidates may be asked to complete an assessment designed to evaluate role-specific skills.