Equipment Operator (Forest Seedling Nursery)

Company Description

WHO WE ARE:

Did you know that over 5 billion trees started their lives as PRT seedlings?

From our roots in 1988, when a group of dedicated employees banded together to purchase six seedling nurseries, PRT has grown into North America's largest forest seedling provider.

Today, with 28 sites across the US and Canada, including 18 nurseries and 8 seed orchards, we grow over 630 million high-quality seedlings annually. We're proud to play a vital role in supporting reforestation and sustainable forestry practices across the continent.

With 92% of our employees as shareholders, we're a company driven by shared success and a passion for environmental stewardship. We provide the foundation for healthier forests and a greener future.

We would love for you to be a part of what we’re growing!

WHAT WE VALUE:

• Nurturing Relationships: We believe in building strong, authentic connections with our customers, our colleagues, and our communities.
• Driving Excellence: We're committed to delivering exceptional results and exceeding expectations in all that we do.
• People-First Mindset: We prioritize the well-being and development of our employees, fostering a culture of respect, support, and collaboration.
• Making a Difference: We're passionate about contributing to a healthier planet and creating a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE:

We're a forest seedling production nursery in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. We offer a safe work environment and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world through reforestation and restoration efforts. Our team is dedicated to producing high-quality seedlings, and we work together to achieve our goals.

This is a physically demanding, fast-paced role that requires a self-starter with a strong work ethic. You'll be operating a variety of equipment (forklifts, tractors, spray rigs) in and out of greenhouses, performing site maintenance tasks, and contributing to the overall success of our nursery.

A Day in the Life:

Your days will be varied, but here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Morning: Start your day by checking your equipment and reviewing the task list. This could involve operating a forklift to move materials, driving a tractor to prepare fields, or using a spray rig to apply treatments.
• Mid-day: You might be assisting with loading or unloading trucks, performing routine maintenance on equipment, or helping out in the greenhouse.
• Afternoon: Depending on the season, you could be involved in site maintenance activities like weeding, spraying for invasive species, or clearing brush.

Expect to:

• Be on the move: This is NOT a sit-down driving job. You'll be constantly on and off equipment, moving materials, and working outdoors in all weather conditions (rain, heat, cold).
• Work independently: You'll be given a list of tasks and expected to manage your time effectively to complete them.
• Be adaptable: Duties vary seasonally, from operating equipment and maintaining greenhouses to weeding, spraying, and assisting with packing.
• Embrace the elements: The Pacific Northwest climate is known for rain and fluctuating temperatures. Be prepared for hot greenhouses in the summer and cold, wet conditions throughout the year.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safely and efficiently operate forklifts, tractors, and spray rigs.
• Perform regular equipment maintenance and minor repairs.
• Assist with loading and unloading trucks.
• Maintain accurate records.
• Train others on safe equipment operation.
• Participate in site maintenance activities (weeding, spraying, etc.).
• Work collaboratively with the team.

Qualifications

LOCATION: Cottage Grove, Oregon

WORK STATUS: Full-time Hourly

Qualifications:

• Essential:
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Proven experience operating forklifts and tractors.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude for equipment maintenance.
  • Ability to work independently and proactively.
  • Physical stamina to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Preferred:
  • Equipment operation certifications.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish).
  • Experience in a shipping/receiving environment.

Alignment with PRT's Values

• Passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship.
• Strong work ethic and dedication to excellence.

Additional Information

WHAT WE OFFER:
 

TOTAL REWARDS AT PRT:

Grow Your Career, Cultivate Your Potential. At PRT, we believe in nurturing talent as carefully as we nurture our forests. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package is designed to help you thrive professionally and personally.

 Financial Rewards

• $19.50 hourly wage 
• Flexible start date – position is currently vacant, looking to hire ASAP
• Matching 401K program; Supporting your long-term financial planning

Comprehensive Benefits

• Extended health, vision, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation and paid Stat holidays

Professional Development

• Development Support: Personalized guidance to accelerate your career growth
• Learning-Focused Culture: Continuous skill development built into every role
• Recognition for innovative contributions that drive our business forward

 Unique ‘Green’ Cultural Advantages

• Collaborative, inclusive work environment
• Passion for nature solutions and the earth
• Every voice matters
• Year-round stability and growth
• Strong commitment to environmental sustainability
• Passionate team dedicated to stewardship of North American forests

Join PRT and be part of a mission-driven organization where your professional growth is as important as the forests we help to grow. Here, you're not just an employee – you're a vital part of our ecosystem of innovation and environmental stewardship.

DE&I:

At PRT, we celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that our strength comes from the unique perspectives and experiences of our people. We are committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.

Accessibility:
To learn more about our commitment to an accessible workplace and available disability accommodations throughout the recruitment process, please contact us at [email protected]

Ready to grow your career with PRT?

To apply please send your resume directly to us through our career portal at; Grow Your Career | PRT Growing Services Ltd.

Still want to learn more?

Follow us on Instagram: @TrustedToGrow, @IFCOSeedlings or

Facebook: @PRTGrowingServices

LinkedIn: @PRTGrowingServices, @IFCOSeedlings

#letsgrowtogether