Field Trial Technician Level I - Citrus Silvec is a biotechnology/agrotechnology company developing RNA-based solutions in plants to target pathogens and insects, helping to immunize and strengthen crops in both agriculture and forestry. We leverage proprietary, cutting-edge RNA technologies to create environmentally responsible crop protection tools. Based in a 9,000 sq ft facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland, at the heart of the Washington, DC biotech corridor, we maintain active collaborations with leading academic and federal research institutions.

Position Overview:

Silvec is seeking a full-time Field Trial Technician (Citrus) to support our citrus product development team. This role will primarily focus on supporting viral vector field trials in citrus, collecting plant tissue samples and assaying in the lab, and documenting and summarizing trial results. The position will also involve onsite plant care and pathogen inoculation under controlled environments (growth chambers and greenhouse), as well as basic bench work for sample processing and target identification.

Key Responsibilities:

Field & Controlled-Environment Trials . Assist Researchers and Field Trial and Regulatory Associate with the execution of plant pathology trials in growth chambers, greenhouses, and field sites. Contribute to trial planning, setup, planting, disease severity scoring, sampling, pathogen detection, and data collection/management. Mother Tree Management. Maintain and monitor citrus mother trees, track stability and performance, and regularly update mother tree inventories. Prepare mother tree inoculum for upcoming trials.

Molecular / Pathology

Support. Collaborate with the molecular biology team to confirm virus presence, characterize pathogen populations, and assist with extractions and assays. Help process large numbers of samples during time-critical periods. Horticulture & Plant Care. Work with the horticulture team on-site with routine plant care, including: general plant maintenance, IPM scouting and pest management. Reporting & SOPs. Provide field status updates and written reports as requested. Support the development and refinement of standard operating procedures (SOPs). Regulatory Support. Participate in the collection, organization, and management of regulatory data. Assist the regulatory team in addressing regulatory and biosafety considerations for viral vector use in open-field agriculture. Support

USDA/EPA

inspections and related compliance activities.

Qualifications:

B.S. in Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Crop Protection, Biology, a related field, or an equivalent 3-4 years of work experience. Previous work with citrus or other woody/tree crops is highly preferred. Horticulture experience, including plant care (irrigation and fertilization), propagation (cuttings, budding, and grafting), and IPM Willingness and ability to travel interstate up regularly. Able to work in high and low temperature conditions in the field and greenhouse. Able to lift up to 30 pounds. Willing to work longer hours during time-critical periods of the growing season. Demonstrated ability to complete objectives and tasks with high accuracy and attention to detail. Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to work effectively as part of a team. Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and standard office software. High motivation and ability to learn new technologies. Must have own transportation and a valid US Driver's License Spanish language proficiency is preferred but not required. Join us in shaping the future of sustainable crop protection. Please send a cover letter and CV Candidate must already be authorized to work in the

US Salary:

$55,000

Benefits:

401(k) matching Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off

Work Location :

Gaithersburg, MD Pay:

$55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person