Plant Health Specialist

Growers Transplanting Inc•Salinas, CA

10d•$20 - $24

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

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.)
Valid CA driver’s license and eligibility for company vehicle insurance.

Nice To Haves

Bi-lingual in English and Spanish is strongly preferred but not required

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.