Pesticide Applicator - Bailey Nurseries

JOB TITLE: Applicator - Illinois Location

Why Work With Us?

At Bailey Nurseries, we believe that great people and great plants grow together. As an Applicator, you’ll play a hands-on role in nurturing the health of our crops using customized, modern equipment designed to keep you safe and effective. You won’t just be spraying—you’ll be learning how plant health works, using smart technology, and seeing the results of your work across acres of beautiful nursery crops.

• Safety First: Work with customized equipment that minimizes exposure to chemicals and prioritizes your well-being.
• Reliable, Stable Work: Join a trusted company in the agricultural industry with year-round opportunities and strong values.
• Hands-On Learning: Gain experience with plant health, pest control strategies, and application technologies in a team that supports your growth.
• Purposeful Work: Your daily impact contributes directly to the quality of our plants and the success of our growing season.

OVERVIEW:

The Applicator is a key team member responsible for the precise and efficient application of pesticides and fertilizers to ensure optimal plant health and crop yield. This position requires a proactive and detail-oriented professional who is dedicated to maintaining high standards of safety, compliance, and equipment functionality. Working closely with the Plant Health Department Head and other team leaders, the Applicator contributes to the overall success of farm operations by managing applications using customized equipment that enhances efficiency and reduces chemical contact. This role also supports pest and weed control efforts and assists with general production tasks during the off-season.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Prepare and apply fertilizers and pesticides in accordance with instructions provided by the Plant Health Foreperson, ensuring proper handling and compliance with safety standards.

2. Calculate and measure appropriate quantities of pesticides for accurate mixing and loading into spraying equipment.

3. Calculate and measure appropriate quantities of fertilizers for accurate mixing and application.

4. Operate a variety of farm equipment, including pickups, ATVs, forklifts, and tractors (both small and large), with proficiency and attention to safety protocols.

5. Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of application equipment to ensure reliable operation and longevity.

6. Maintain detailed and accurate application records, documenting tasks and adhering to company reporting standards.

7. Assist in pest, disease, and weed scouting, providing input to support plant health and management strategies.

8. Perform weed management tasks, including the use of appropriate equipment and methods to control weed growth across the farm.

9. During off-season, this position may be reassigned to a secondary area to fulfill various production requirements under alternate supervisory oversight.

10. Support additional farm operations and responsibilities as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a team-oriented approach.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:

• Basic knowledge of agricultural chemicals , application techniques, and plant growth stages , required.

• Valid driver’s license (meeting company insurability criteria), required.

• Ability to work weekends/extended hours as needed, required.

• A valid State Pesticide Applicator License is required, or the ability to obtain one by successfully passing the exam within the first 90 days of employment.

• Math skills are needed to calculate and measure pesticide and fertilizer quantities accurately.

• Demonstrates a strong work ethic with the ability to work independently or collaboratively in a team environment.

• Basic Spanish is helpful but not required.

• Physical demands may include extensive periods of sitting or walking, some lifting, and potential exposure to extreme temperatures.

• Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Bailey Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Employment with Bailey Nurseries is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, in accordance with applicable law.

If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our HR team at careers@baileynurseries.com.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 - $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 48 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Supplemental Pay:

• Bonus opportunities

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience operating tractors or farm equipment such as sprayers, loaders, or ATVs?
• Are you comfortable performing basic math calculations to mix and apply fertilizers and chemicals accurately?
• Do you have basic knowledge of agricultural chemicals (químicos) and plant growth stages?
• This position requires working outdoors in varying conditions and climbing into and out of tractors frequently. Are you comfortable with these physical demands?

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Onarga, IL 60955 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $24