Greenhouse Grower, Nursery Support

About the role

The Greenhouse Grower works directly under the Nursery Manager to support day-to-day greenhouse and propagation activities at Northwest Plant Company in Ferndale. Success is measured by delivering healthy plants on schedule while meeting targets and minimizing loss. The goal of this position is to grow the highest quality plants with minimal pest and disease issues. We strive for continual improvement and a safe, positive environment so that our employees can find success in everything they do.

Responsibilities

• Follow supervisor guidance to maintain plant health in the greenhouse and fields by watering, fertilizing, chemical applications, etc.
• Care for all crops in the greenhouse from initiation to packing.
• Communicate plant needs in advance to supervisor for crew planning.
• Work with Nursery Manager and Field Grower to understand greenhouse to field production cycle and ensure plant health in greenhouse before planting in field.
• Ensure accurate labeling of plants, flats and boxes.
• Perform continuous greenhouse checks to maintain target environment and plant growth.
• Conduct weekly scouting for early detection of pests and diseases; communicate issues/concerns.
• Apply crop protection products as needed and document applications appropriately.
• Learn and understand all control systems used for greenhouse and cross-train on field.
• Monitor the ARGUS Greenhouse Control System and respond timely to issues.
• Learn and understand the irrigation systems; assist with maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Mix fertilizer stock solutions weekly; check composition, EC, pH.
• Assist with making calculated adjustments to irrigation schedule, fertility, etc.
• Assist with maintaining and sanitizing facilities and equipment.
• Assist greenhouse crew with all activities such as planting, sorting, shipping, packing, etc.
• Provide back-up to Greenhouse Supervisor and Field Grower as needed.
• Be available for weekend greenhouse and field checks and after-hours for emergencies as needed.
• Track day-to-day production numbers (planting, sorting, packing, shipping) and assist with inventory management.
• Assist Nursery Manager and crew supervisor with monitoring crew performance as it pertains to plant quality and communicate issues.
• Ensure critical production automation equipment is operational.
• Review existing written procedures, schedules and training aids and make necessary modifications to keep process documentation current and applicable (including adding new SOPs as necessary).
• Participate in applicable associations and/or read publications to stay informed of emerging techniques and tools.
• Balance quality, productivity, cost, safety and morale to achieve positive results in all areas of plant quality and work to continuously improve in all areas.
• Promote workplace safety; understand and adhere to the Company’s Accident Prevention Program.

Qualifications

• Degree in horticulture, plant science, agriculture management preferred OR equivalent experience in greenhouse growing or raspberry production.
• Obtain and maintain private applicator license.
• Proven experience with plants, control systems, irrigation, nutrient solutions, pumps, etc.
• Critical thinking skills to troubleshoot plant health and equipment issues.
• Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written) with diverse populations.
• Ability to learn quickly and flexibility to adjust with changing information.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus.
• Experience operating forklifts and other small equipment.
• General computer skills including Microsoft Excel and Office programs and cloud-based management software.

Working Conditions

Frequently works in greenhouses in wet or humid conditions, near moving or mechanical parts. Occasionally works in high, precarious places, near toxic or caustic chemicals, in outdoor weather conditions, or in extreme heat or cold.

Physical Demands

Frequently lifts 10–25 pounds and occasionally lifts 50–100 pounds. Frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel; to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear. Close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus is required.