_{See below for}_{Agricultural Research Associate}_{in Mesquite, New Mexico}

Agricultural Research Associate

Location: Mesquite, New Mexico

Grow Your Career with Us

We are seeking a motivated, hands-on Agricultural Research Associate to support onion breeding and seed production in Mesquite, New Mexico. This role works across the full production cycle, including planting, pollination, harvest, seed processing, trial support, and field data collection.

What You’ll Do

Key responsibilities include:

Coordinate breeding trials, including setup, planting, evaluation, harvest, and data entry.
Supervise seasonal labor crews to complete field operations safely, efficiently, and accurately.
Coordinate onion seed isolation cages, including setup, maintenance, and removal.
Plant, harvest, clean, process, label, inventory, and store onion bulbs, seed, and research lots.
Work with the Farm Manager to organize daily field priorities and address field challenges.
Support customer and research trials in coordination with sales representatives.
Operate and maintain equipment while keeping work areas organized and safe.
Support onion breeding, research, and commercial seed production activities as needed.

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in biology, horticulture, agronomy, plant science, or a related field; or five years of relevant agricultural experience in lieu of a degree.
Knowledge of agriculture and interest in plant breeding or seed production.
Strong leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to supervise and motivate seasonal employees.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to seasonal demands.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform physically demanding work.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in agricultural research, commercial agriculture, seed production, or crop production.
Experience leading employees or seasonal labor crews.
Familiarity with irrigation systems, field equipment, or research trial management.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time salaried position. Typical hours are eight-hour days, Monday through Friday, with some Saturday work required during planting, pollination, and harvest seasons.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

Competitive salary based on experience
Comprehensive health and benefits package
401(k) and profit sharing
Company-provided vehicle, cell phone, and computer
Four weeks of paid leave provided at the beginning of each year, prorated in the year of hire based on start date, with additional leave earned through years of service
Professional growth and long-term career advancement opportunities

Why Join Our Team?

Join an experienced team committed to integrity, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. If you are dependable, resourceful, and interested in building a long-term career in the seed industry, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting a resume and any relevant technical experience for consideration to hr@crookham.com.

Summer Work 2027

We want to thank everyone for a great summer season in 2026 and look forward to seeing you again in 2027! If you are interested in working for Crookham Company during the summer months, the application process begins in April and May. This is great work if you are a student.