Grower

Mt. Cuba Center•Hockessin, DE

4d•$22 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Grower is responsible for all aspects of the daily care and maintenance of a diverse collection of native plants in our greenhouse and outdoor nursery growing areas. They produce herbaceous and woody plants for use in our gardens, plant sales program, external conservation partnerships, and nursery industry. The Grower coordinates staff, students, and volunteers to perform plant maintenance tasks, operating under the guidance of the Greenhouse and Nursery Manager. They work efficiently on detail-oriented tasks to ensure plants are maintained to the high standard of Mt. Cuba Center, with emphasis placed on data collection and organization of plant records in all phases of production. Those interested can view a supplemental document with a more detailed overview of the role by clicking this link.

Requirements

Associate degree in horticulture or plant science from an accredited college, university, or recognized certificate in horticulture and 2+ years of growing experience required, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Demonstrated interest in native plants and conservation horticulture.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Demonstrated ability in herbaceous and woody plant production techniques.
Sound working knowledge of native plant identification, plant cultural requirements, and environmental factors affecting plant growth.
Capacity to learn about the growing requirements of a wide range of species.
Familiarity with greenhouse operations.
Skill in pest and disease identification and management.
Ability to operate a wide range of tools safely and effectively.
Ability and willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
Ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs to complete work duties.
Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, and able to manage time effectively without close supervision.
Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Candidates must have unrestricted work authorization in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

Experience growing plants in a greenhouse setting preferred.

Responsibilities

Apply proper irrigation and fertilization to produce a diverse group of native plants. Evaluate plant health and make or propose adjustments to production practices.
Perform and oversee production tasks for all crops through plant care and maintenance activities such as potting, spacing, moving, pruning, and staking.
Monitor and operate environmental controls to maintain proper temperature and light levels.
Maintain sanitary and organized workspaces and growing areas.
Collect production data and ensure an accurate inventory of crops.
Assist with all aspects of plant propagation as needed in collaboration with the Conservation Propagator.
Coordinate, guide, and train employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing plant production tasks.
Administer Integrated Pest Management program. Scout for pests, diseases, and weeds. Prepare beneficial insect orders, coordinate release, and complete chemical applications as needed.
Contribute to conservation and nursery industry research objectives in collaboration with the Greenhouse team.
Organize support logistics of the plant sale program, including deliveries, back stocking, and day-to-day communication with sales staff.