Research Scientist I (Plant Scientist)

Research Scientist I (Plant Sciences)
$28 - $32/hr with medical benefits available at a cost
6 month initial contract with possibility of extension
100% onsite in Research Triangle Park, NC
First Shift M-F

Orion Group and a global Agriscience company are teaming up for a new contract opportunity for a Research Scientist in RTP North Carolina. Our client is seeking a dedicated Research Scientist to support plant and seed production activities for commercial crops such as soybean and maize. This hands-on role focuses on daily care of research plants and operational support for experiments in modern greenhouse and growth chamber facilities.

Apply today and take the first step towards your next career opportunity!!!!

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily plant care activities, including watering, fertilizing, scouting, and general maintenance.
• Conduct planting, sampling, transplanting, and pollination activities.
• Monitor plant growth and performance; collect, document, and maintain accurate records/data.
• Support greenhouse and growth chamber environmental management (monitoring, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting as directed).
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and stewardship expectations.
• Perform all work in accordance with HSE guidelines, company policies, and safe work practices.
• Collaborate effectively with research teams to execute experimental plans and timelines.
• Provide occasional/supplemental weekend and holiday coverage as needed to support critical operations.

Skills and Competencies:

• Ability to perform physical duties required for greenhouse operations in controlled-environment conditions (standing/walking for extended periods; repetitive tasks).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively in minimally supervised settings.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures and protocols precisely.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Commitment to stewardship, quality, and safety (HSE) standards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience with data collection, recordkeeping, and documentation in a protocol-driven or regulated environment.
• Greenhouse experience preferred.

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field OR Associate’s degree with 2 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with greenhouse/growth chamber environmental control systems.
• Familiarity with agricultural research practices and experimental workflows.
• Working knowledge of plant biology, crop growth requirements, and plant care principle
• Proven experience in soybean hybridization (flower crossing) in either greenhouse or field conditions with acceptable success rate and efficiency

 


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Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services – Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management – across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.