Product Development Specialist

Our Company:

PlantTape is an automated transplanting system recognized for our innovation and client centric approach. This unique method of transplanting provides vegetable growers with one of the most efficient options aimed at reducing labor costs. The PlantTape process is built around a tape material that holds seeds and seedlings. The PlantTape facilitates ease of sowing, efficient nursery operations and automated transplanting. With one of the most progressive and innovative automated transplanters on the market, PlantTape now has over 100 machines operating globally.

Location: Salinas, California

Job Area: Western Sales Area

Salary: $70,000 – $90,000

The Role:

The Product Development & Research Specialist will be responsible for supporting management, sales, engineering, factory and equipment teams in all aspects. In this role you will work closely with all stakeholders to collect data from crop trials and equipment performance to provide all collaborators with data to drive decisions. This self-motivated person will be an integral part of the team to retain, grow, and nurture new business while delivering customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about innovation and eager to learn the fundamentals of product development.

Areas of Responsibility: 

• Collect and analyze research data to prepare reports for management and clients
• Maintain accurate and organized documentation related to research of product development
• Collaborate with internal and external business partners to collect harvest data, crop quality, and performance
• Assist in driving the development of product concepts and prototypes under the guidance of the sales and equipment team
• Coordinate product development projects with the PlantTape team and clients
• Participate in organizing internal and commercial field trials
• Gather customer feedback through performance worksheets, interviews, and field visits
• Document customer interactions and feedback for future reference
• Work closely with management and business partners to prepare presentations and updates
• Manage quality assurance situations while working closely with sales and factory team to mitigate and suggest solutions
• Stay informed about industry trends and new technologies
• Participate and contribute in weekly sales meetings
• Prepare regular reports on account status and client feedback
• Provide insights and recommendations for improving client relationships
• Routinely visit greenhouses to observe and document progress with current PlantTape orders

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural, Business, Sales, or related field
• 1-2 years of experience in agriculture (internships, academic projects, etc.)
• Strong understanding of the agriculture industry, customer base, and competitive landscape
• Excellent communication, negotiation, relationship building and organizational skills
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally (passport required)
• Highly motivated, results oriented, and proactive with a positive team mindset
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment
• Self-motivated
• Ability to prioritize while handling multiple tasks

 Travel Requirements:

• Travel and afterhours work required
• Potential international travel

Apply Here: