Research and Development Technician

Research & Development Technician

100% Employee Owned (ESOP) Company Salary Range: $40-$60k

Rainbow Ecoscience (a division of Rainbow Companies) is seeking a detail-oriented and hands-on Research & Development Technician to support our research program through the coordination and execution of laboratory, greenhouse, and field research trials. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both scientific research and fieldwork and is passionate about advancing innovative solutions in plant health care and arboriculture.

As a member of the R&D team, you will help plan and execute efficacy trials, collect and maintain research data, manage laboratory operations, and work closely with internal teams and external research partners to ensure studies are completed safely, accurately, and on schedule. This full-time, hybrid position is based in Minnetonka, MN, with 50% in-office work and up to 30% travel as needed.

What You'll Do:

Research Trial Support

• Assist with the setup, execution, monitoring, and completion of greenhouse and field research trials.
• Prepare and apply research treatments according to study protocols, product labels, and safety requirements.
• Conduct scheduled evaluations and collect accurate data.
• Support trial logistics, organization, and closeout activities.

Laboratory & Equipment Management

• Organize and maintain laboratory work spaces, equipment, supplies, and chemical inventories.
• Ensure research facilities remain clean, safe, compliant, and operational.
• Manage sample storage and research materials.

Inventory & Shipping Coordination

• Coordinate inventory, packing, shipping, receiving, and tracking of research products, equipment, samples, and trial materials.
• Ensure materials arrive at research locations accurately and on schedule.
• Assist internal R&D staff and external collaborators with research logistics, data organization, and project updates.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Forestry, Biology, or a related field
• Valid driver's license and a commitment to safe driving
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and internet-based applications
• Strong problem-solving and organizational abilities
• Ability to conduct field research activities
• Ability to obtain a pesticide applicator license within 3 months of employment

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3+ years of research or product development experience in tree care or related field.
• Familiarity with statistics, experimental design, and data analysis
• Master's degree in Horticulture, Forestry, Biology, or a related field

What We Offer:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 80 hours of PTO, 4 Floating Holidays and 8 Paid Holidays
• Full Range of Benefits available, including Medical, Vision, Dental, Disability, & Life Insurance
• 401K Contribution Option with Company Match

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to sit for extended periods of time, walk and stand; talk or hear, both in person and by telephone; use hands repetitively to finger, handle, feel or operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; and lift up to 80 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain.

You Should Know:

Rainbow Companies was founded in 1976 with a vision to preserve the historic American elm trees in Minnesota. We have evolved into a multi-faceted company dedicated to serving clients around the world, transforming the way ecosystems are maintained. We lead with innovation and achieve predictable results through science-based practices, research, and training. Rainbow is a 100% employee-owned company, and our employees are the core of our success.

We work collaboratively and foster teamwork through communication and integrity. We are guided by our core values in which we work and succeed. At Rainbow, we celebrate our differences and are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected status.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.