Soil Scientist jobs in Springfield, MA

Job Title: Head Grower, Soil Based Propagation

Department: Operations Job Status: Full Time

FLSA Status: Exempt Reports to: Production Director

Job Type: Regular Amount of Travel Required: 10%

Work Schedule: Monday- Saturday Positions Supervised: 12-22

Position Summary:

Nourse Farms is a leading player in the plant propagation industry, known for our commitment to excellence in providing high-quality plant stock. Nourse Farms is seeking a highly skilled and experienced manager to lead our facility in Whately, MA and Pasco, Washington for the Farm/Nursery soil-based propagation operations. The Head Grower will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of plant production, crop management, and maintaining the highest standards of plant health and quality. This role is crucial in ensuring smooth operations and effective communication within the department and across the organization.

Primary Duties:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Key Responsibilities:

· Propagation Leadership: Direct and monitor every stage of soil-based propagation, ensuring processes comply with our protocols, resulting in robust plants.

· Team Guidance: Lead the farm team, ensuring they receive instruction, mentorship, and a high proficiency in propagation practices.

· Resource Optimization: Collaborate with the Whatley General Manager to allocate resources efficiently, aiming to maximize propagation processes and achieve production goals.

· Data Analysis: Launch data capture methods for tracking propagation efficiency and growth rates. Utilize this data to identify trends and make informed decisions to bolster propagation outcomes.

· Quality Assurance: Implement rigorous quality checks, ensuring propagated plants meet our quality standards. Address concerns like pests, diseases, or other hazards promptly.

· Documentation: Maintain detailed records of propagation activities, covering plant schedules, inventory, and quality assessments.

· Pesticide Management: Retain an active pesticide applicator's license, apply pesticides safely and adhere to all relevant regulations.

· Safety Advocacy: Promote the well-being of all staff by endorsing adherence to safety protocols and nurturing a safety-first culture.

· Progressive Development: Regularly identify areas for improvement, advocating innovative solutions to uplift farm operations.

· Performance Reporting: Diligently report on weekly, monthly, and quarterly KPIs, ensuring the alignment and achievement of departmental targets.

· Site Collaboration: Travel to and collaborate with our Pasco, Washington soil-based propagation site several times a year, especially during planting, digging, and packing of raspberries and asparagus.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

· Education:Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience required.

· Experience:7 years of progressive and hands-on experience in soil-based propagation and farm management, including leadership experience.

· Analytical Skills: Ability to collect and interpret data, make data-driven decisions, optimize cultivation techniques accordingly, and meticulous record-keeping.

· Leadership Abilities: Strong leadership and team management skills with a track record of building and motivating high-performing teams. Ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

· Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various departments and other stakeholders.

· Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges related to plant health and productivity.

· Physical Stamina: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and working in varying temperatures.

· Deep understanding of plant propagation techniques.

· A valid pesticide applicator's license.

· A staunch commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods.

If you are passionate about horticulture and have the skills necessary to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply. Join our team as a Head Grower and contribute to the success of our plant cultivation efforts.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,966.00 - $80,961.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) 4% Match
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

• Whately, MA 01093: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person