Nursery Technician

The Westervelt Company, Inc•Eutaw, AL

47d•Onsite

About The Position

At The Westervelt Company, our nursery team plays a vital role in regenerating forests and preserving natural ecosystems. As a Nursery Technician, you'll be part of a company that values sustainable land management and environmental stewardship. We're committed to the safety and well-being of our employees, delivering high-quality forestry products, and building strong relationships in the communities where we live and work. We are currently hiring a Nursery Technician at our Nursery Facility in Eutaw, Alabama. As a Nursery Technician at The Westervelt Nursery, you'll be at the heart of forest regeneration efforts. You'll assist in producing high-quality container pine seedlings and ensure the nursery operates smoothly and efficiently. From sowing seeds to shipping seedlings, maintaining equipment to supporting planting operations, your work will directly impact the success of reforestation projects. Your day begins with a walk through the nursery to check seedling health. You might troubleshoot irrigation systems, coordinate with planting crews, or repair equipment. Later, you'll assist with grafting projects and maintain the grounds. Every day is hands-on, outdoors, and filled with opportunities to grow-literally and professionally. Previous nursery experience is helpful but not required. Through our partnerships with the Auburn Nursery Cooperative and NC State Tree Improvement Cooperative, you'll receive hands-on training in horticulture and nursery operations. This role is perfect for someone who learns by doing and is passionate about sustainable forestry.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED (Associate's degree in Forestry, Agriculture, or Horticulture preferred)
1-2 years of experience in farming, construction, welding, or equipment maintenance
Strong math, communication, and teamwork skills
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Self-motivated and detail-oriented
Strong oral and written communication
Skilled in operating and repairing nursery equipment

Nice To Haves

Welding and equipment repair
Forklift and tractor operation
Background in forestry, agriculture, or farming
Spanish language proficiency

Responsibilities

Assist with seed stratification, sowing, inventory, lifting, and shipping.
Monitor and maintain seedling crops throughout the growing season.
Serve as a liaison during planting operations, ensuring seedling readiness and quality.
Maintain nursery grounds: mowing, spraying, fertilizing, pest control.
Maintain records including equipment maintenance, parts inventory, safety inspections, and fuel records.
Support weed control efforts through herbicide application, mechanical methods, and hand weeding.
Assist with crop nutrition planning and fertilization.
Operate and maintain irrigation systems, including pumps, pipelines, and digital controllers.
Repair and maintain nursery equipment and facilities.
Rotate between orchard sites.
Support tree improvement tasks like grafting and data collection.
Supervise contract labor crews and ensure quality standards.
Provide emergency support and troubleshoot growing systems.
Promote safety and maintain clean, organized workspaces.