Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Salary: Up to $45,000 DOE

Head Propagator

Find Your Home at Arid Solutions!

If you have a passion for specialized plants and are looking for a rewarding, long-term career focused purely on horticulture, you belong with us.

For over 40 years, Arid Solutions Nursery has been a trusted leader in Phoenix (since 1984!). As a wholesale-only production facility operating on 30 acres, we're dedicated to cultivating the highest-quality, desert-adapted plants for success in Arizona's unique climate. We're looking for a dedicated Head Propagator to join our stable, expert team.

What Sets Us Apart

• 100% Production Environment: Since we're wholesale-only and not open to the general public, your time is spent mastering plant health, quality, and innovative growing techniquesnot retail sales.
• The Best of the Desert: You'll gain specialized expertise working with a huge variety of drought-tolerant and desert-adapted species, including everything from small perennials up to stunning 36 box specimen trees.
• We Grow It Here: Our commitment to quality means nearly all of our plants are grown and raised on-site in Phoenix, making you essential in guaranteeing our products are perfectly acclimated to flourish in Arizona landscapes.

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)

As the Head Propagator, you will be the expert leader responsible for the planning, execution, and management of all plant propagation for the nursery.

Propagation Planning & Operations

• Master Propagation: Determine the best method of propagation (e.g., seed, cuttings) and all necessary requirements, including soil mix, water requirements, hormone treatment, and optimum season.
• Production & Inventory: Research, purchase, or collect all seed stock necessary for propagation. Manage the proper storage and inventory of all seed.
• Team Leadership: Supervise propagation employees and teach best methods to ensure consistency and quality across the team. Relay any employee challenges to the Nursery Grower.
• Research & Innovation: Attend meetings and conferences to improve education on new techniques and products and develop contacts with other industry professionals.
• Budget Management: Create and track the propagation department budget with the Nursery Grower.

Horticultural Science & Quality

• Growing Environment Management: Address and correct any problems in the greenhouse and liner house in regard to insects, disease, irrigation, fertilization, heating/cooling system, and bottom heat.
• Water & Nutrient Management: Conduct daily testing of the nursery irrigation water pH and EC, and determine fertilizer requirements. Manage the operation of irrigation equipment such as time clocks, fertigation, and reverse osmosis systems.
• Pest & Disease Control: Recognize and treat plant diseases and pests appropriately using chemical and/or cultural practices.
• Quality & Documentation: Keep a log of all plants propagated and methods used for future reference to improve timing and quality.

Coordination & Reporting

• Daily Execution: Work closely with the Nursery Grower and other staff to determine future plant needs and available cutting stock to be used for propagation.
• Reporting: Supply the Nursery Grower with daily propagation count reports and progress reports on the master propagation tracking list.
• System Updates: Update computer reports and lists (e.g., liner price list, tracking list, timeline) used for propagation.
• Hands-On Support: Perform various tasks as needed when propagation staff is busy (e.g., watering, fertilizing, moving liners).

What You Bring (Required Qualifications)

• Experience: Demonstrated propagation and cultivation experience is required.
• Horticultural Knowledge: Strong knowledge of agriculture or horticulture, including proficiency in both common and botanical names of plants.
• Technical Skills: Ability to operate and manage commercial irrigation equipment (time clocks, fertigation & reverse osmosis systems). Willingness to train for Chemical Handler certification.
• Teamwork & Dedication: Ability to work independently and in collaboration with teams. Must be self-motivated and take direction from the Nursery Grower.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to work outdoors and in the greenhouse year-round in Phoenix weather. Ability to lift at least $40$ lbs.
• Communication: Bilingual English/Spanish is a significant plus.
• Location: Reliably commute to or plan to relocate to the Phoenix, AZ 85040 area before starting work.

Compensation & Benefits

We value our experts and offer a robust total compensation package:

• Pay Range: Competitive salary based on education and experience.
• Retirement: 401(k) with company matching.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, including a Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Time Off: Paid time off and disability insurance.

Schedule

This role requires a dedicated approach, including 10-hour shifts, Monday to Friday, with occasional Holidays and Weekend availability required based on seasonal production needs.

Why You'll Love It Here

This is more than a jobits a chance to master your craft in desert horticulture. Join a stable, locally owned company that has been a trusted industry leader for over 40 years, offering excellent opportunities to grow your career as our production facility expands.

If you're ready to "root down" with a stable company that values quality and expertise, apply today!

Arid Solutions is a Drug-Free Workplace. As a federal contractor with safety-sensitive positions, we adhere to Federal regulations.

Arid Solutions provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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