Position Title: Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) Nursery Technician
Job Type: Part-time at 19 hours per week – Full Time Equivalency: 0.475
Compensation: $25 per hour, commensurate with experience
Reports to: Co-Directors, CIG Coordinator
Position Summary:
The Hawaiʻi Institute of Pacific Agriculture is seeking a dedicated and skilled Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) Nursery Technician to support the propagation and maintenance of plant materials for the HIP Agriculture Soil Conservation Project. This role involves working closely with the Co-Directors and CIG Coordinator to ensure the successful growth of plants used in soil health demonstration trials and community propagation outlets. The ideal candidate will have experience in plant propagation, nursery management, and a strong commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. Duties include, but are not limited to:
Key Responsibilities:
- Nursery Operations:
- Assist in the propagation of plants for use in Soil Health Demonstration Trials (SHDT) and Propagation Outlets for Distribution and Dissemination (PODDs).
- Maintain nursery facilities, including watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest management.
- Monitor and document the growth and health of plants, ensuring they meet project standards.
- Plant Propagation:
- Prepare seeds, cuttings, and other plant materials for propagation.
- Implement sustainable and organic methods for plant propagation and nursery management.
- Ensure the proper labeling and tracking of plant materials for propagation to outplanting.
- Data Collection and Reporting:
- Record detailed information on planting schedules, growth rates, and plant health.
- Assist in the collection of data related to the performance of propagated plants in SHDTs.
- Provide regular updates and reports to the Co-Directors and CIG Coordinator.
- Community Engagement:
- Support community outreach efforts by preparing plant materials for workshops, field days, and other events.
- Assist in the distribution of plant materials to participating producers and community members.
- Represent HIP Ag at community events, sharing knowledge about nursery operations and plant propagation techniques.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field preferred. Equivalent work experience will also be considered.
- Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in nursery management or plant propagation.
- Solid understanding of sustainable agricultural principles, soil health management, agroforestry, and regenerative agriculture.
- Proficiency in using tools, equipment, and machinery relevant to farm operations.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, capable of working independently or as part of a team.
- Friendly, outgoing, and responsive to the public’s needs.
- Proficiency in data collection and record keeping.
- Must have a valid drivers license.
Work Environment:
- Requires regular outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
- Must be able to work 8-hours in the field performing physical activities such as bending, lifting, and manual labor.
- Must be comfortable with repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers as it relates to farm operations.
- Must be able to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Terms & Compensation:
This is a part-time position, with a projected duration of three years. Renewal contingent upon availability of funds, organization needs, and satisfactory performance. This hourly position starts at $25, commensurate with experience.
Application Process:
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for three references via email to erika@hipagriculture.org and dash@hipagriculture.org.
