Job Description

Mastronardi Produce pioneered the commercial greenhouse industry in North America, and we’re now the leading greenhouse vegetable company on the continent. Our award-winning, flavorful produce is packed under the SUNSET® brand and is available at leading grocery retailers across North America. Family owned for over 65 years, we pride ourselves on having the most flavorful products and the best people in the industry. We are constantly pushing boundaries to be a leader in fresh produce innovation. We seek individuals that demonstrate our PRIDE values (Passion, Respect, Innovation, Drive, Excellence) to help us fulfill our mission to inspire healthy living through WOW flavor experiences.

Fresh4Sunset Farms Ltd, our growing partner based in Delta BC is a greenhouse farming operation growing vegetables and berries. We are committed to producing and packing safe produce through the use of good agricultural practices, with a focus on principles of quality, taste, and food safety. Integral to this commitment is an organized and well-functioning operation. This role is an integral part of this commitment.

We are seeking an IPM Technician/Researcher that will be responsible for monitoring and managing pest and disease pressures within the greenhouse using environmentally responsible and sustainable practices. This role involves scouting crops, identifying pests and beneficial organisms, R&D of insect breeding, population monitoring, applying biological control agents, and maintaining detailed records.

Values:

To perform the job successfully, the incumbent’s behavior must be consistent with the PRIDE values expected of all Mastronardi Produce employees: be Passionate; have Respect; be Innovative; be Driven and strive for Excellence.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Track and manage multiple insect species and their unique life cycles, including various developmental stages (nymphs, instars, etc.).
• Conduct diligent scouting of crops to monitor insect population levels and report on growth and behaviour.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels.
• Handle the inventory and preparation of inputs required for insect rearing, including mixing, measuring, and dispensing materials.
• Coordinate with the Grower on the scheduling and tracking of scouting activities.
• Support the Grower in purchasing and dealing with suppliers to ensure proper inventory levels.
• Assist the Grower with the development, expansion and improvement of the internal IPM production program.
• Administration of all aspects of the internal IPM production program, including technical records, tracking and reporting of IPM production being used in the crops, labour tracking and related data required to operate the IPM production program internally.
• Perform regular cleaning and disinfection of rooms, cages, humidifiers, and equipment to maintain sterile conditions and prevent contamination.
• Follow strict sanitation protocols and demonstrate a clear understanding of what constitutes a clean and sterile environment.
• Assist with the development and improvement of the IPM program.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and company policies.

Education/Background requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; post-secondary education in biology, entomology, agriculture, or a related field preferred.
• Experience or familiarity with insect morphology and life cycle stages is an asset.
• Fluent in English (reading, writing, and speaking)
• Strong organizational and observational skills, with the ability to manage complex schedules and minute biological details.
• Ability to maintain a sterile work environment and adhere to strict cleanliness standards.
• Proven ability to work independently without constant supervision.
• Apply strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues independently and contribute to continuous process improvement.

Please note:Mastronardi Produce has accommodation processes and policies in place and provides accommodation for employees with disabilities. If you require a specific accommodation because of a disability or documented medical need, please contact the Human Resource office so that arrangements can be made for the appropriate accommodation to be put in place.

Hourly rate is $20-$22/hr