Nursery Production Technician

ABOUT THE NATIVE PLANT NURSERY 

Oxbow’s Native Plant Nursery (NPN) produces native plants that promote a conservation ethic. The plants produced in the nursery serve to increase habitat quantity and quality, while also acting as a vehicle for knowledge growth, empowering restoration project managers, landscape architects, and household and community gardeners to learn the importance of native plants and local landscapes. The NPN is recognized for its high-quality plants, development of native plant propagation protocols, and engagement in research to improve all aspects of nursery production. The NPN grows approximately 75,000 plants per year. 

POSITION OVERVIEW 

The Nursery Production Technician works with other nursery staff in all aspects of plant production. The position requires someone able to take on responsibility and work efficiently with attention to detail. Additionally, we are looking for individuals with a background and interest in botany, horticulture, nursery science and/or environmental stewardship, and an enthusiasm for native plants and their production.  

The Nursery Production Technician’s position is Full-Time (40 hours per week). The schedule is primarily M-F, 6:30-3:00, with occasional weekend work and adjusted start times to accommodate weather patterns. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Perform duties around crop production, including sowing, thinning, transplanting, pruning, organization, weeding, irrigation, and inventory monitoring.  

• Assist in preparing plant orders and loading delivery vehicles.  

• Maintain organization and cleanliness of the nursery and equipment.  

• Participate in site preparation, maintenance, and native planting activities on site.  

• Assist with and participate in events as needed throughout the season.  

• Work cross-functionally with other program teams to ensure efficient and effective communication and operations.  

• Represent Oxbow in a positive, professional manner, engaging with and educating visitors about Oxbow’s mission and programs.  

• Perform other related duties, as assigned by the Production Manager or Department Director. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Enthusiasm for native plants of the Pacific Northwest region and their associated habitats.  

• Work experience/background in botany, environmental science, horticulture, or related field.  

• Experience working in a fast-paced environment related to nursery production, landscaping, or restoration activities, and a strong desire to learn more.  

• Consistent attention to detail.  

• Ability to take direction, ask for help/clarity when necessary, and accept constructive feedback on work and technique.  

• Ability to work independently and within a team.  

• Flexible, creative, and able to perform well in diverse conditions  

• Valid driver’s license and ability to maintain an insurable driving record if operating organizational vehicles. 

• Successful completion of a background check in accordance with Oxbow policies. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS 

This position requires the ability to: 

• Stand, bend, kneel, squat, crouch, and walk for extended periods of time. 

• Perform repetitive physical work including digging, planting, transplanting, pruning, and moving nursery materials. 

• Lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis. 

• Work outdoors for extended periods in varying environmental conditions including rain, heat, cold temperatures, snow, smoke, and uneven terrain. 

• Safely perform physically demanding work in a production-based agricultural/nursery environment.  

• Ability to safely operate nursery tools, equipment, irrigation systems, and other materials required to perform daily work responsibilities. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

Oxbow is committed to cultivating a culture of diversity and inclusion. We value the individual differences, life experiences, and knowledge that our staff bring to their work and their communities. Valuing diversity is a significant part of our culture, our values, and the success of Oxbow’s mission.    

Oxbow provides equal employment opportunities to all staff members and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.   

Oxbow is committed to fostering a racially diverse team. People of color are encouraged to apply.  

COMPENSATION    

This is a full-time, non-exempt (salaried) position paying $55,000-$56,000, depending on experience. Oxbow offers employer-paid health benefits, a retirement match, paid holidays, and competitive sick and vacation time.