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Horticulture Technician
Job Description
Babylon Micro-Farms has developed an IoT enabled on-demand farming service that remotely manages on-site indoor farms. The company's farming modules and platform make sustainable indoor farming accessible to a much broader market than is currently possible, and greatly improve quality, reduce waste, and save money for its customers. Babylon is a high growth, early-stage company based in Richmond, VA. Horticulture Technician Babylon Micro-Farms is looking for a Horticulture Technician responsible for executing daily cultivation tasks and research progression. This role involves farm maintenance, data collection, research assistance, and inventory management. The Horticulture Technician works closely with the Director of Horticulture to ensure optimization of crop health across Babylon's fleet of remotely managed farms. Farm Operations & Maintenance (40%) Follow food safety procedures when handling crops to prevent contamination Sow seeds with proper labels and transplant seedlings at appropriate growth stages Harvest and accurately weigh crops; manage produce storage and staff distribution Discard harvested produce not used within one week post-harvest to maintain freshness standards Maintain accurate crop data in the Babylon Guided Growing app for all HQ-managed farms Monitor HQ farm metrics daily via Fleetview and report findings to the Director of Horticulture Perform preventive maintenance on HQ farms, including pH and EC calibrations, regular monitoring, cleaning, and equipment upkeep Ensure farms are stocked with appropriate pH solutions and adequate nutrient supplies Wash and store trays routinely, maintaining cleanliness and proper organization Dispose of waste regularly and maintain an orderly work environment Mop tent floors monthly; conduct deep cleaning of farm systems every 2-3 months Monitor and empty tent dehumidifier as needed Verify tent HVAC units are operational; perform maintenance or service as required Research Support & Data Analysis (30%) Assist in designing and establishing research studies based on protocols provided by the Director of Horticulture Collect quantitative and qualitative data systematically throughout trial periods Capture photographic documentation and record anomalies or deviations during trials Organize and maintain research data in structured formats for analysis Perform basic statistical analysis including descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, ranges) using Excel or Google Sheets Create data visualizations (charts, graphs) to communicate trial results effectively Support preparation of trial summaries and results documentation with statistical support Identify trends and patterns in crop performance data across multiple growing cycles Collaborate with Director of Horticulture to interpret results and inform cultivation decisions R&D Facility & Quality Management (15%) Organize horticulture supplies within the R&D area in designated storage locations for efficient access Monitor supply levels and coordinate with supply chain team to reorder R&D essentials (e.g., waste bags, food containers, gloves, protective booties) Manage towel service for R&D facility through Virginia Linen Company, adjusting orders based on usage patterns Perform quality inspections on incoming raw materials, verifying compliance and alerting Director of Horticulture to anomalies Execute standard operating procedures for water sample collection during installations Review horticulture Freshdesk tickets daily for water sample shipment requests Log water sample results and consult Director of Horticulture regarding any irregular findings Intern Coordination (5%) Collaborate with Director of Horticulture to establish priorities and assign tasks to interns Monitor intern performance and provide constructive guidance and corrections Support intern professional development through training and feedback on horticultural best practices Additional responsibilities as needed to support horticulture operations
Minimum Qualifications:
0-1 years of experience in horticulture, agriculture, or related field; controlled environment agriculture (CEA) experience preferred Basic understanding of statistical concepts and data analysis methods Proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets for data collection, documentation, and basic statistical analysis (means, standard deviations, data visualization) Demonstrated ability to follow research protocols and standard operating procedures precisely Strong attention to detail with commitment to data accuracy and integrity Effective written and verbal communication skills for reporting findings and cross-functional collaboration Ability to work independently while managing multiple concurrent projects Comfortable learning new software platforms and technology tools
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor of Science in Horticulture, Plant Science, Environmental Science, Statistics, or related field Coursework or practical experience in experimental design and research methods Familiarity with hydroponic or controlled environment growing systems Knowledge of food safety protocols and quality control procedures Experience working in an agricultural research setting Understanding of plant physiology and crop production principles
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs Standing and walking for extended periods (up to 8 hours) Comfortable wearing protective equipment (gloves, booties, etc.) Key Skills for
Success:
Analytical thinking and problem-solving Meticulous record-keeping and documentation Ability to identify and communicate data-driven insights Adaptability in a fast-paced research environment Collaborative mindset with eagerness to learn Self-starter with initiative and drive to improve processes
Compensation & Benefits:
Full Time
•40 hours per week
Hourly:
Starting at $20
•24 per hour
•range based on experience Employer-provided health, dental, and vision insurance Parental leave offered after 1 year of employment Paid Time Off 401(k) Fresh produce (leafy greens and herbs) to take home Babylon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and we are proud to be an . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, and reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. If you require an accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please contact HR at or call us at (877) 589-2885.
Pay:
$20.00
•$24.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location:
In person
Benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) Plans
- Professional Development
- Health Insurance