Job Type
Full-time
Description
Propagation & Production
- Assist with the daily management of cutting, preparation, and sticking operations according to production schedules and established specifications.
- Learn and ensure proper propagation techniques, including selecting, preparing, and sticking quality plant material.
- Scout stock plants and cutting locations for appropriate propagation material.
- Monitor production quality, productivity, and progress toward departmental goals.
- Assist with preparation and monitoring of rooting solutions.
- Monitor and restock inventory of rooting hormone, sanitation solutions, PPE, and other essential propagation supplies.
- Learn proper pruning techniques and strategies to support quality liner production.
- Monitor rooting progress and root health on freshly stuck cuttings and update tracking reports with accurate information.
- Help coordinate cutting crew transportation and daily work assignments.
- Work closely with the Propagation Manager to meet weekly and seasonal production objectives.
Crop & Liner Management
- Update liner inventory with accurate crop descriptions and other relevant plant and production information within Traverse.
- Check soil moisture and misting requirements.
- Monitor plants for signs of disease, insects, damage, or other concerns and communicate issues promptly.
- Assist with maintaining appropriate cultural conditions, including shade, ventilation, heating, and moisture.
- Monitor proper operation of misting and sprinkler systems and communicate maintenance needs.
- Gain an understanding of fertilizer programs for young plant liners and learn to operate and monitor the fertilizer injection system.
- Become familiar with the operation of greenhouse heaters and temperature-monitoring technology and assist with close monitoring both, particularly during the winter months.
- Maintain accurate plant identification, labeling, and signage.
- Maintain clean, organized, and productive propagation areas.
- Coordinate with the Containering Manager and supervisors regarding liner readiness for potting, as well as the transportation and containering of liners.
Leadership & Employee Development
- Assist with training employees on proper propagation procedures and work responsibilities.
- Provide day-to-day direction and support to propagation employees as assigned.
- Monitor work quality, productivity, and adherence to company procedures.
- Promote a safe, productive, and positive work environment.
- Develop or maintain a working proficiency in Spanish to support effective communication with propagation employees and the ability to communicate technical concepts and production expectations.
- Develop the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to assume greater responsibility within the Propagation department.
Production Planning & Department Support
- Assist with production planning, scheduling, and tracking as directed by the Propagation Manager.
- Prepare production reports and maintain accurate records.
- Participate in weekly Production Meetings and communicate relevant propagation updates, goals, and challenges.
- Work with the Maintenance Department to address equipment or mechanical issues.
- Assist the Propagation Manager with projects, research, crop planning, and process improvements.
- As training and experience develop, take on additional responsibilities within Propagation and other areas of Production as determined by management.
Continuous Improvement
- Learn and stay current on propagation methods, crop production practices, and industry developments.
- Assist in researching new techniques, varieties, and processes that may improve plant quality, efficiency, or production.
- Identify opportunities to improve workflow, productivity, and overall department performance.
Management Support
- Serve as a key support to the Propagation Manager in the day-to-day operation of the department.
- Develop the knowledge and experience necessary to provide management coverage when needed.
- Work collaboratively with other Production Managers and departments to support overall nursery operations.
- Assist other departments and managers as needed.
Requirements
- Experience or education in horticulture, nursery production, landscaping, agriculture, or a related field preferred.
- A strong interest in plant production and propagation.
- Leadership, supervisory, or team-leading experience preferred.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to learn technical production processes and apply them consistently.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, seasonal nursery environment.
- Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to take initiative.
- Ability to work hands-on alongside the production team.
- Basic Spanish proficiency preferred. Candidates without Spanish proficiency should be willing to develop a working proficiency to support effective communication with propagation employees.
- A willingness to learn, develop, and take on increasing responsibility.
Salary Description
$65,000–$75,000, based on experience