What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Pesticide Sprayer/Handler position at Providence Nursery LLC dba Fisher Farms?
Job Summary: The Lead Pesticide Sprayer/Handler will utilize their expertise in leading the spray team to scout, operate and maintain equipment, and mix and apply herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides to continuously identify, control and eliminate harmful insects and diseases. The candidate must have demonstrated experience in chemical application techniques and a strong knowledge of ornamental plants, diseases, pests and treatment methods.
Schedule: Full-time, Monday-Friday and seasonally may require Saturday shifts based on business need.
Job Functions and Responsibilities:
- Work with the Head Grower and Plant Quality & Production Coordinator to oversee and direct the spray team’s daily tasks.
- Follow the company spray applications calendar and adhere to the pest management program.
- Plan and perform daily nursery scouting; take samples and keep record of findings.
- Perform daily record-keeping of applications, including usage, application rates, and locations.
- Communicate findings and concerns with the Plant Quality & Production Coordinator and Head Grower as they arise and help to create an action plan.
- Create daily work orders and develop plans to execute with the spray team to ensure proper signage is posted and staff is notified.
- Responsible for daily inspection and maintenance of spray equipment and vehicles, ensuring proper calibration and that they are clean and functional.
- Monthly organize chemical room and maintain a chemical products inventory.
- Supervise and train the spray team on safety standards and ensure they have the required PPE and are using it correctly.
- Assist to collect, test, and deliver water samples.
- Periodically assist with nursery operations including plant loading, pruning, weeding, transferring, irrigation, and other operational tasks.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- 3 years of pesticide application experience at a nursery; IPM experience preferred.
- Must have a strong work ethic and excellent communication and team collaboration skills.
- Must be familiar with products and techniques used to maintain plant health and understand and adhere to product labels and safety requirements.
- Must be detail-oriented, organized, and possess math and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to accurately measure and monitor precise volume of chemical applications to ensure that the proper amount is applied at the appropriate time.
- Team player who takes initiative, seeks responsibility.
- Willingness to assist with other job duties and assignments, as needed.
- Must be able to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced work environment.
- Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
- Physical ability to perform tasks such as standing, lifting, walking, and working outdoors in various weather conditions for extended periods of time.
- Current and valid driver’s license is required.
- Pesticide applicator certification is preferred.
Benefits:
This position is based out of our beautiful Gaston, Oregon office location and offers a competitive salary and benefits package with opportunity for growth.
About Fisher Farms:
Fisher Farms is a Proven Winners® Gold Key Grower in Gaston, Oregon focusing on a cold-hardy mix of containerized ornamental shrubs, broadleaf evergreens, conifers, and perennials. Our broad plant palette with year-round availability primarily services independent garden centers, landscapers, and re-wholesalers across the country. We believe that our customers’ success is our success, and we are always seeking innovative ways to improve our nursery and help our customers grow.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Compensation Package:
- Hourly pay
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $30