Research Associate I

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of the soil microbiome, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in agriculture. Our products harness the power of naturally occurring microbes to provide nutrients to crops and new sustainable ways for farmers to reduce the usage of fertilizers as they work to help feed the world’s growing population.

Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour. 

Position: Research Associate I 

We are seeking a detailed oriented Research Associate to join our growing Plant Analytics team. As an integral part of this team, this individual will assist in plant care in growth rooms and greenhouses.  In addition to working on established protocols, this role will collaborate within and across teams to develop and improve current plant care practices and assays. 

Responsibilities: 

• Support the plant care needs for a growing team at Pivot Bio 
• Perform routine tasks such as watering/fertilizing plants, assisting in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and monitoring conditions in growth facilities 
• Follow specified procedures to develop reliable, quantitative data on plant growth metrics and product performance 
• Troubleshoot and assist protocol iterations, and proactively find ways to increase efficiency and automate processes as applicable 
• Prioritize daily tasks to meet the needs of all team members, and effectively communicate progress and results in a timely manner 
• Document detailed observations 

Qualifications and Experience 

• Research Associate I - BA/BS in biological sciences, plant biology, biotechnology, or related field, or AS/AA with 2+ years of full-time experience, or equivalent related experience 
• Experience with plant care in a greenhouse setting 
• Comfortable with or willingness to learn standard microbiology such as media prep, cell counting, and CFU/viability plating 
• Attention to detail and ability to effectively perform tasks as directed by supervisor or according to an SOP 
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills 
• Basic computer skills including data capture and entry 
• Must be able to work on weekends occasionally 

Physical Requirements 

Estimated 75% of time in laboratory or greenhouse setting/25% of time in office setting  

• Able to occasionally lift 50 pounds 
• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing for prolonged periods 
• Very Frequent - Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers  
• Operating machinery and/or power tools   
• Must be able to work in high temperature and humidity environments (greenhouse) 
• Must be able to work in noisy environments 

 Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions   

What we offer: 

• Competitive package in a disruptive startup 
• Stock options 
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums 
• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies 
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts 
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match 
• Commuter benefits 
• Annual Training & Development support 
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team 

Hiring Compensation Range: $67,000 - $75,000

This salary range for this Berkeley, CA, Hayward, CA or Boston, MA based position incorporates a premium for the cost of labor in this area.  If this role is hired remotely of one of Pivot facilities, contact compensation for the lower range for National Benchmark.  Following employment, growth beyond the hiring range is possible based on performance.