JOB SUMMARY

The position will manage all phases of the native plant production for partner project efforts restoring native plant communities on the Ceded Lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs; primarily riparian plants in the John Day River basin.  This includes seed collection, seed storage, propagation, growing, delivery, maintenance, and hold-over care for native riparian plants. The facility is located on the Forrest Conservation Area in Prairie City, Oregon, with a working capacity of propagating up to 40,000 native plants per year.

Responsibilities:

The Nursery Project Leader will work with tribal staff and other agencies, organizations, tribal membership, and public. Manage the native plant nursery program, including facilities such as a greenhouse, outdoor shade houses, willow stooling beds, seed cooler, seed lab, and other facilities related to operations. Hire, coordinate, and supervise staff to propagate and grow plants for re-vegetation projects, and oversee all phases of plant propagation operations.  Maintain and repair facility equipment to ensure proper functioning.  Develop contracts and agreements to grow and sell plants.  Work with the community on related projects.  Develop and/or follow a native plant nursery management plan and plant source policy to guide operations.  Manage budgets and funding contracts, and develop and administer a plant supply database. Support staff, actively communicate, and maintain a professional work environment.

Supervisory Duties:

Direct supervision of seasonal and full-time staff as hired or assigned, usually 2-4 people.

Successful Performance Requirements:

The Native Plant Nursery Manager will work independently in developing and administering the program, maintain professional working relationships with other staff, agencies, and organizations, communicate effectively to staff and BNR managers, possess strong organizational skills for maintaining accurate and up to date records, and raise and maintain program funding.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience:

A Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture, botany, natural resources, or related field is required. Three years experience working in a greenhouse or nursery setting with two years experience in the propagation of plants from seed and cuttings. One year experience required of managing a greenhouse or nursery, or related program, with supervisory experience.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Knowledge of plants and plant communities common in the Blue Mountain Ecoregion, including riparian, forest, rangeland, and cultural plants; be able to use a dichotomous key to identify plants
• Knowledge of propagation techniques for native trees, shrubs, and sedges
• Knowledge of seed physiology, collection, cleaning, and storage
• Knowledge of common greenhouse pests and diseases
• Experience with re-vegetation planning and implementation; prefer experience with out-planting stock, either to advise or as part of a contract; experience with landscaping and landscaping tools and equipment; in situ soil and water management
• Experience applying herbicide and knowledge of proper herbicide application techniques and herbicide safety and handling
• Database management and development skills
• Knowledge of budgeting, purchasing, and contracting procedures
• Ability to use office applications and software for reports, grants, and contracts; detail oriented and able to set-up and maintain spreadsheets with stock inventory, germination rates and success
• Good verbal and written communication skills

Special Requirements:

• Ability to traverse rough and steep terrain in variable weather carrying field gear and collection equipment.
• Requires obtaining and maintaining an Oregon Private Pesticide Applicator License within 6 months of hire.
• Willingness to work weekends and holidays as necessary during growing seasons.
• Periodic contact with fertilizers and pesticides.
• Ability to lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Requires a valid Oregon driver’s license and insurance.

Compensation:

Starting salary range of $41,000 to $44,000, DOE.  The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon offers excellent health insurance and 401k package.