Immediate Vacancy: Agronomist

About the Company

Olij Breeding Ethiopia is an internationally leading breeding company specializing in rose propagation. The company has maintained a strong presence in Ethiopia since 2012 G.C. Headquartered in Bishoftu, Olij Breeding Ethiopia currently employs over 140 staff members and has plans for further expansion. To support overall production activities, the company is seeking a talented Agronomist.

Position Overview

The Propagation Agronomist is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing plant propagation systems to ensure the consistent production of healthy, uniform, and high-performing plants. This role combines hands-on propagation work with agronomic science, data analysis, and continuous process improvement. The Propagation Agronomist serves as a technical expert in propagation methods and works closely with production, quality, and operations teams.

Key Responsibilities

Propagation Strategy & Execution

• Implement and maintain standardized propagation protocols for grafted plants.
• Optimize rooting and early-stage plant development to maximize uniformity, vigor, and survival rates.
• Evaluate propagation substrate, containers, trays, hormones, and inputs.
• Oversee mother plant management programs to ensure genetic integrity, health, and productivity.
• Monitor and manage environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, light, CO₂, airflow) during propagation stages.

Agronomic Management

• Diagnose and correct issues related to nutrient deficiencies, physiological disorders, and abiotic stress during early plant stages.
• Manage fertigation and irrigation programs tailored to propagation phases.
• Ensure proper sanitation, biosecurity, and hygiene practices to prevent disease spread.
• Collaborate with scouting teams to identify and mitigate pest and disease risks.

Data Collection & Optimization

• Design trials to evaluate propagation inputs and environmental variables.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret propagation data (rooting %, mortality, growth rates).
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and continuously improve propagation efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate records, SOPs, and production reports.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Ensure propagated material meets internal quality standards and customer or downstream production requirements.
• Implement traceability systems for plant material from source to transplant.
• Support compliance with relevant agricultural regulations, certifications, and phytosanitary standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits as needed.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with production and operations teams to align propagation outputs with production schedules.
• Provide technical guidance and training to propagation technicians and production staff.
• Support scale-up of new propagation technologies.
• Communicate findings, recommendations, and performance updates to leadership.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Stay current with advances in propagation science, materials, automation, and controlled-environment technologies.
• Evaluate and recommend new tools, equipment, and propagation systems.
• Contribute to long-term planning and capacity expansion initiatives.

We Offer

Dümmen Orange strives for high goals worldwide. Innovation, technology, hygiene, and quality are clear priorities. This results in a challenging work environment in which one can evolve. Dümmen Orange offers plenty of space for the personal growth and development of its employees. We are characterized by an informal and easily accessible work environment in which great value is placed on international cooperation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, Crop Science, or a related field.
• 2 -5 years of hands-on experience in plant propagation, nursery production, or early-stage crop management.
• Experience in greenhouse, nursery, or controlled-environment agriculture preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of plant physiology and early-stage crop development.
• Proficiency in environmental control systems and irrigation/fertigation management.
• Experience with data collection, trial design, and statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with SOP development and quality control systems.
• Ability to interpret agronomic data and translate it into practical actions.

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational ability.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to train, mentor, and lead technical staff.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across teams