Walla Walla Nursery Co

Sticking Lead Job Description

Job Title:  Sticking Lead

Reports To:  Propagation supervisor

Position Status: Full Time

Compensation: $19.5 - 24.75 (DOE)

General Job Description:  

Primary role is the propagation of annuals, grasses, perennials, and shrubs in an efficient and sanitary manner. Will also be responsible for large liner upshifts. This position supports the Supervisor and will be the point of contact if the Propagation supervisor is not present.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Use the proper techniques, required pretreatments, appropriate growing media, container usage, and/or any other specialized requirements in preparation for planting.
• Helps ensure that planting and/or propagation takes place in a timely and coordinated manner referencing potting sheets for start date, quantity, and product placement.
• Follow all written SOPs for each propagation technique and adjusts those SOPs where applicable with Propagation supervisor being made aware to reach planting goals
• Train sticking technicians on all SOPs for propagation
• Use Basic mathematics for plant count/tray reporting
• Communicate with other departments-IPM, cutting specialist, growers etc. as needed in regard to obtaining optimal plant material in a timely manner
• Accurate documentation on all potting sheets. Will assist with updating propagation potting sheets daily
• Ensures sanitation of propagation areas. Surfaces are disinfected pre-plant and regularly thereafter to be kept free of algae and slime. Dead or dying plants are removed daily. Propagation environments are 100% weed free at all times. Ensures that the team is keeping their tools and equipment clean and sanitized daily or between species (where appropriate)
• Work with phase II supervisor and greenhouse leads to correctly lay down trays and in appropriate location
• Assists Propagation Supervisor with receiving all unrooted/TC material from vendors. Carefully documents, reports, and keeps track of claims to vendors and production administration staff.
• Work with Propagation supervisor for continual education on plant identification and propagation techniques
• Runs the TTA sticking machine when Propagation Supervisor is not available
• Inventories and tracks tray needs on a weekly basis.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities:

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent knowledge
• Strong skills with verbal and written communication
• Basic computer skills and strong math skills
• Basic mathematical skills
• Horticulture knowledge a plus but not required
• Skills and ability in time management and task prioritization
• Ability to be self-motivated while paying close attention to detail
• An adaptive personality with an ability to remain flexible

Physical Requirements

• Extensive pulling and/or pushing of tools, wheelbarrows, containers, etc.
• Sit and/or walk for extensive periods of time while sorting, picking, examining, weeding, transporting, spacing, pruning, etc.
• Stoop and/or bend over while performing farm balfour such as weeding, irrigating, pruning, spacing, picking, removing debris, etc.
• Performing repetitive movements such as picking, sorting, pruning, shoveling, weeding, etc.
• Lift or load up to 50 pounds
• Fieldwork begins at an assigned time shortly after daylight
• Work may be performed during environmental extremes including but not limited to light rain and in high humidity and in freezing or high temperatures.
• May be required to work when crops are wet with dew/rain and should have suitable clothing for variable weather conditions
• Must be able to walk across uneven terrain.

Professional Mindset:

• Develops a working knowledge and awareness of LEAN principles and actively participates in building a culture of continuous improvement. Strives to ensure workflow processes and stations are set up to minimize waste, improve working conditions and safety, and maximize productivity and value to the customer.
• Demonstrates commitment to learning and upholding company policies including safety and quality standards, and the mission, vision, principles and ethics of WWNC.
• Develops a strong understanding of industry and WWNC quality standards and consistently delivers work that meets or exceeds those standards by following procedures, checking work for accuracy, and promptly addressing defects or issues.
• Takes initiative for personal growth by actively “learning the business”, seeking feedback from peers and supervisors, and engaging in relevant educational, training or professional development opportunities.

Other requirements

• Due to this position being an agricultural growing position, you may be required to work 7 days a week depending on seasonal growing conditions.
• Must go through annual WPS training

Direct Reports:

• Sticking Technician

Employee Benefits:

• Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance
• 401 (k)
• Paid time off
• Employee discount
• Aflac & LifeFlight options