Hybrid Wheat Technician (m/f/d)

About the role

BASF is looking for an experienced technician with a passion for plant breeding, greenhouse work and innovative agricultural technologies to join its Hybrid Wheat program in Belgium. The role supports the program by running the Single Seed Descent (SSD) method for the female breeding pipeline and contributes to new wheat breeding technologies, combining hands-on greenhouse and post-harvest work with planning, documentation, data review and reporting.

Key responsibilities

• Independently run greenhouse activities for female line development: grow, maintain and evaluate plants and seed samples, monitor growth, phenology and diseases, and apply speed cycling where feasible.
• Perform crosses, harvest plant material, process seed and plan leaf or seed sampling for genotyping and marker-assisted selection.
• Manage the seed storage inventory and maintain seed-processing equipment such as laboratory threshers and sorters.
• Share technical knowledge and supervise interims or seasonal workers for specific workflows.
• Plan and supervise plant growth protocols, seed processing and other greenhouse activities so they are delivered on time.
• Maintain accurate digital records of plant development, crossing, harvest, seed processing, sampling and storage.
• Review, record, compile, summarise and report data according to company standards.
• Follow work instructions, standard operating procedures and safety requirements, and collaborate with local teams on operational, technical and safety topics.

Required profile

• At least three years of relevant experience in agriculture, biology or a related discipline, including experimental work.
• Good knowledge of greenhouse operations, plant growth, crop protection, agricultural and laboratory procedures, cereal breeding or applied plant research.
• Experience with crossing, spike harvest, seed processing and relevant equipment, with the mechanical aptitude to operate, troubleshoot and adapt it.
• Willingness to do about 85% hands-on greenhouse and post-harvest work.
• Ability to work independently, collaborate in a diverse team and communicate effectively.
• Good English and Dutch; a valid Belgian phytolicense is an asset.

Required skills

• Proficiency with computers for documentation, inventory management and reporting.
• Strong commitment to safe work practices, including safe handling of chemicals.

What we offer

• A fixed-term contract of two years in an attractive working environment within a professional, motivated team.
• Challenging assignments in an innovative hybrid wheat breeding program.
• Learning and development opportunities.