Plant Growth Manager

This is a full-time (100% FTE), temporary position expected to end on August 31, 2027. The position is overtime eligible and may be renewed depending on funding and operational needs.

About the role

The Clean Plant Center Northwest (CPCNW), located at the Washington State University Prosser Irrigated Agricultural Research and Extension Center (IAREC), safeguards U.S. specialty crops by testing, diagnosing, and eradicating pathogens from fruit trees, grapevines, and hops. By maintaining and distributing pathogen-tested germplasm, CPCNW provides growers, nurseries, and custom propagators with healthy, clean planting materials to support agricultural security.

As the Plant Growth Manager based in Prosser, you will directly contribute to CPCNW’s mission by managing the propagation and maintenance of a wide variety of horticultural crops across greenhouse and screenhouse facilities. You will direct staff in executing precise propagation techniques, including specialized grafting methods for perennial crops, coordinate closely with scientific staff to support research objectives, and enforce strict plant health and quarantine protocols. The ideal candidate combines strong hands-on horticultural expertise with proven supervisory experience and a rigorous commitment to biosecurity and research integrity.

Responsibilities

• Manage propagation and maintenance of horticultural crops in greenhouse and screenhouse facilities.
• Direct staff in executing precise propagation techniques, including specialized grafting methods for perennial crops.
• Coordinate with scientific staff to support research objectives while enforcing strict plant health and quarantine protocols.
• Obtain and maintain a WSDA Pesticide Applicator’s license within 3 months of hire.
• Work a flexible schedule, including some evening and weekend commitments.
• Perform physical labor (bending, lifting, standing for extended periods) under varying greenhouse temperature conditions.
• Monitor and identify subtle plant stress and pest pressure.
• Travel as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to horticulture, plant science, or a related specialty, plus three (3) years of directly related experience. Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet WSU driving standards (SPPM 7.10).
• At least one (1) year of supervisory experience.
• Experience growing and maintaining horticultural crops within controlled environments (agriculture, greenhouses, or screenhouses).
• Demonstrated proficiency in perennial plant grafting and vegetative propagation methods.
• Demonstrated understanding of phytosanitary, quarantine, or biosecurity frameworks.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, with a track record of efficiently assisting research teams.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods in varying greenhouse conditions.
• Strong observational skills to detect plant stress and pest pressure.

Preferred Qualifications

• Intermediate-level software skills, including Microsoft Office (database, spreadsheet, and word processing tools).
• Ability to compose concise and accurate written and oral reports for project leaders.

Pay

Monthly salary range: $4,386.85 to $6,580.27, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Paid sick and vacation leave.
• Paid holidays.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, life, and disability insurance for employees and dependents.
• Retirement plans, including deferred compensation and optional supplemental retirement accounts.
• Training and professional development opportunities.
• Employee tuition waiver.