Plant Health Specialist at Growers Transplanting Inc

Salinas, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

22 May, 26

Salary

24.0

Posted On

21 Feb, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Technical Assistance, Analysis, Scouting, Pest Control, Fertilizer Management, SOP Development, Material Trials, Water Suitability Testing, Tissue Nutrient Analysis, Pathogen Analysis, Inventory Management, Compliance Reporting, Analytical Thinking, Critical Thinking, Integrity, Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Industry

Farming

Description

Description Company: Growers Transplanting, Inc. Job Title: Plant Health Specialist Job Classification: Temporary, Full Time Job Status: Hourly, Non- Exempt Department: Growing Management Report To: Production Manager Location: Salinas, Ca Plant Health Specialist About GTI: Growers Transplanting Inc. (GTI) – is the ag industry-leading seedling producer and transplanting company with over 5.5 million square feet of fully inclusive vegetable and fruit producing greenhouses. As one of the most technologically advanced field operations in the US, GTI continues to deliver value-added partnerships leading some of the biggest names in fresh produce through the entire process of growing, shipping, and transplanting by developing solution-driven processes that cater to individual agricultural needs. Position Summary: The Plant Health Specialist is responsible for providing technical assistance, analysis, observations, scouting, and recommendations regarding the overall plant growth and transplant production. The specialist is responsible for accurately recording plant observations, participating in material trials, and developing SOPs and recipes for pest control materials and fertilizers. The specialist also partners with our Safety and Compliance department regarding applicable laws and regulations regarding water, fertilizer, and pest control material use. This is a 3-6 month temporary position. Key Responsibilities: Scout nursery, greenhouse transplants, and ornamental production for any plant issues regarding pest damage/presence, nutrient deficiencies, and other abiotic/biotic disorders. Keep detailed notes regarding their observations and report timely to Growers, Production, Operations, and Sales departments. Partner with Growers, Seedline Staff, and Production regarding trialing novel materials, growing practices, and production technologies. Research and implement pilot testing regarding applicable technologies focused on plant growth and vegetable/ornamental health diagnosis, fertilizer, water, and chemical use. Work with the Growing, Transplanting Ops, and Sales departments to implement corrective actions related to customer feedback. Report back results of trials using statistical and observational methods. Sample for water suitability tests, tissue nutrient levels, and pathogen analysis. Work closely with Growers and Purchasing regarding chemical and fertilizer inventory. Participate in monthly chemical inventory exercises Support and communicate with Accounting regarding financial audits and cost analysis Maintain and submit records of monthly use reports to the Ag County Commissioner’s office for all facilities. Renew pesticide licensing and permitting in the counties where the company maintains operations. Support the Safety department in pesticide handler and applicator training Participate in Organic, Ag County, Water Board, and other audits related to chemical and fertilizer use. Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned. Requirements Qualifications: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills High sense of ownership and accountability Sound work ethic Excellent level of professional integrity Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Science or related field CCA certification and PCA license or the ability to obtain one within a year after hiring. The company provides training, mentorship, and sponsorship for licensing and certification. +1 year experience in the Agricultural/Horticultural industry preferred Intermediate level Microsoft Office required (i.e. Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) Bi-lingual in English and Spanish is strongly preferred but not required Valid CA driver’s license and eligibility for company vehicle insurance. Business Travel: 40% Physical Requirements While performing the functions of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; frequently required to talk or hear; and occasionally required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities by this job include close distance and color vision. *This position description does not promise or imply that the functions listed in the Position Summary are the only duties to be performed or that the position may not change or be eliminated. Employees interested in learning more about the essential duties and responsibilities of this position should complete the Position Interest Form and submit it to the Human Resources Department. Compensation: $20.00-$24.00 *The compensation range for this role is determined by factors such as location and required skills. The salary range provided reflects the lowest to highest amount we reasonably anticipate paying for this position at the time of posting. Compensation is influenced by labor market conditions and various factors, including but not limited to: the prevailing minimum wage in the area, relevant education, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, travel requirements, sales or revenue targets, and business needs. It is not typical for a new hire to be offered the highest end of the salary range. Pay decisions are made based on the unique circumstances of each candidate and position. In addition to competitive compensation, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, and other benefits to eligible employees.

Responsibilities

The Plant Health Specialist provides technical assistance, analysis, scouting, and recommendations for plant growth and transplant production, while accurately recording observations and participating in material trials. Responsibilities also include developing SOPs for pest control and fertilizers, and partnering with Safety and Compliance regarding regulations for water, fertilizer, and pest control material use.