Nursery Production Technician

at  Oxbow Farm Conservation Center

ABOUT THE NATIVE PLANT NURSERY

Oxbow’s Native Plant Nursery (NPN) produces native plants that promote a conservation ethic. The plants produced in the nursery serve to increase habitat quantity and quality, while also acting as a vehicle for knowledge growth, empowering restoration project managers, landscape architects, and household and community gardeners to learn the importance of native plants and local landscapes. The NPN is recognized for its high-quality plants, development of native plant propagation protocols, and engagement in research to improve all aspects of nursery production. The NPN grows approximately 75,000 plants per year.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Nursery Production Technician works with other nursery staff in all aspects of plant production. The position requires someone able to take on responsibility and work efficiently with attention to detail. Additionally, we are looking for individuals with a background and interest in botany, horticulture, nursery science and/or environmental stewardship, and an enthusiasm for native plants and their production.
The Nursery Production Technician’s position is Full-Time (40 hours per week). The schedule is primarily M-F, 6:30-3:00, with occasional weekend work and adjusted start times to accommodate weather patterns.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Enthusiasm for native plants of the Pacific Northwest region and their associated habitats.
• Work experience/background in botany, environmental science, horticulture, or related field.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment related to nursery production, landscaping, or restoration activities, and a strong desire to learn more.
• Consistent attention to detail.
• Ability to take direction, ask for help/clarity when necessary, and accept constructive feedback on work and technique.
• Ability to work standing, sitting, bending over or kneeling; to lift heavy and awkward objects, up to 50 lbs.; to perform physical work, such as digging or planting.
• Ability and willingness to work in inclement weather including high heat, freezing conditions, rain, snow, smoke, etc.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Flexible, creative, and able to perform well in diverse conditions

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• Perform duties around crop production, including sowing, thinning, transplanting, pruning, organization, weeding, irrigation, and inventory monitoring.

• Assist in preparing plant orders and loading delivery vehicles.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness of the nursery and equipment.
• Participate in site preparation, maintenance, and native planting activities on site.
• Assist with and participate in events as needed throughout the season.
• Work cross-functionally with other program teams to ensure efficient and effective communication and operations.
• Represent Oxbow in a positive, professional manner, engaging with and educating visitors about Oxbow’s mission and programs.
• Perform other related duties, as assigned by the Assistant Manager or Program Manager.