The Strong Foundation of Nourse Farms

Job Title: Farm Manager
Department: Operations 
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Reports to: Production Director
Job Type: Regular 
Amount of Travel Required: 10%
Work Schedule: Monday-Saturday
Positions Supervised: 12-22

Position Summary:

Nourse Farms is a leading player in the plant propagation industry, known for our commitment to excellence in providing high-quality plant stock. Nourse Farms is seeking a highly skilled and experienced manager to lead our facility in Whately, MA and Pasco, Washington for the Farm/Nursery soil-based propagation operations. The Farm Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of plant production, crop management, and maintaining the highest standards of plant health and quality. This role is crucial in ensuring smooth operations and effective communication within the department and across the organization.

Primary Duties:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Propagation Leadership: Direct and monitor every stage of soil-based propagation, ensuring processes comply with our protocols, resulting in robust plants.
• Team Guidance: Lead the farm team, ensuring they receive instruction, mentorship, and a high proficiency in propagation practices.
• Resource Optimization: Collaborate with the Whatley General Manager to allocate resources efficiently, aiming to maximize propagation processes and achieve production goals.
• Data Analysis: Launch data capture methods for tracking propagation efficiency and growth rates. Utilize this data to identify trends and make informed decisions to bolster propagation outcomes.
• Quality Assurance: Implement rigorous quality checks, ensuring propagated plants meet our quality standards. Address concerns like pests, diseases, or other hazards promptly.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of propagation activities, covering plant schedules, inventory, and quality assessments.
• Pesticide Management: Retain an active pesticide applicator's license, apply pesticides safely and adhere to all relevant regulations.
• Safety Advocacy: Promote the well-being of all staff by endorsing adherence to safety protocols and nurturing a safety-first culture.
• Progressive Development: Regularly identify areas for improvement, advocating innovative solutions to uplift farm operations.
• Performance Reporting: Diligently report on weekly, monthly, and quarterly KPIs, ensuring the alignment and achievement of departmental targets.
• Site Collaboration: Travel to and collaborate with our Pasco, Washington soil-based propagation site several times a year, especially during planting, digging, and packing of raspberries and asparagus.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience required.
• Experience: 7+ years of progressive and hands-on experience in soil-based propagation and farm management, including leadership experience.
• Must have a Massachusetts Pesticide license.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to collect and interpret data, make data-driven decisions, optimize cultivation techniques accordingly, and meticulous record-keeping.
• Leadership Abilities: Strong leadership and team management skills with a track record of building and motivating high-performing teams. Ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various departments and other stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges related to plant health and productivity.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and working in varying temperatures.
• Deep understanding of plant propagation techniques.
• A valid pesticide applicator's license.
• A staunch commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods.

Click here to apply now.

Job Title: Maintenance Technician
Department: Maintenance                    
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt                      
Reports to: Maintenance Manager
Job Type: Regular                                  
Amount of Travel Required: None
Positions Supervised: 0                         
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, rotating weekends

Position Summary 

Nourse Farms is a leading player in the plant propagation industry, known for their commitment to excellence in providing high-quality plant stock. Nourse Farms is seeking a diligent and hands-on Maintenance Technician to join our dynamic team. As a Maintenance Technician, you'll work closely with the Maintenance Manager to ensure that our facilities and equipment are in optimal condition, furthering our mission of providing high-quality small fruit plants. 

Primary Duties: 

Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Routine Maintenance: Execute daily checks and carry out routine maintenance tasks on machinery, equipment, and facilities.
• Respond to Breakdowns: Quickly respond to and diagnose faults and breakdowns, taking corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Follow Maintenance Schedules: Adhere to preventive maintenance schedules set by the Maintenance Manager to proactively maintain all equipment.
• Document Work: Maintain detailed records of all maintenance work performed, including parts used and time spent.
• Safety Compliance: Ensure all work is done in compliance with company safety policies and relevant regulations. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• Tool Maintenance: Maintain, clean, and store tools and equipment in an orderly and safe manner.
• Support Larger Projects: Assist in bigger maintenance projects as directed by the Maintenance Manager.
• Provide Feedback: Regularly provide feedback on potential improvements or concerns regarding equipment and facilities.
• Continuous Learning: Keep up to date with the latest maintenance techniques and best practices, attending workshops or training courses as necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent; technical certification is a plus.
• 2+ years of experience in a maintenance role, preferably in agricultural or plant production environments.
• Basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Ability to work with a variety of hand and power tools safely.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Must be willing to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal
• Demonstrated leadership abilities in a team environment.
• Strong customer service orientation
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as climbing ladders, lifting 50 lb., bending, and operating equipment.
• Eagerness to contribute to a dynamic and collaborative team.

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Job Title: Human Resources Coordinator
Department: Human Resources 
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
Reports to: General Manager, dotted line to HR Director
Job Type: Regular 
Amount of Travel Required: N/A
Positions Supervised: 0 
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, weekends as needed

Position Summary:

Nourse Farms is a leading player in the plant propagation industry, known for our commitment to excellence in providing high-quality plant stock. Nourse Farms is seeking a highly skilled, detailed orientated and reliable Human Resources Coordinator to support all aspects of the employee life cycle. This role is responsible for creating, updating and applying all HR policies and company guidelines, and making sure they adhere to standards and laws initiated by authorities. The HR Coordinator will run the daily functions of the Human Resource (HR) department including hiring and interviewing staff, administering pay, benefits, and leave, enforcing company policies and practices, and support in the location’s administrative functions.

Primary Duties:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Reviews, tracks, and documents compliance with mandatory and non-mandatory training, continuing education, and work assessments. This may include safety training, anti-harassment training, professional licensure, and aptitude exams and certifications.
• Assist in the recruitment process, including job postings, screening resumes, and coordinating interviews.
• Conducts or acquires background checks and employee eligibility verifications.
• Oversee workforce management initiatives, including scheduling, attendance tracking, and supporting all aspects of payroll processing using tools like iSolved.
• Implements new hire orientation and employee recognition programs.
• Facilitate data collection for HR metrics and reporting to aid in strategic planning.
• Administer workers' compensation claims, manage leave of absences, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
• Maintain accurate employee records in iSolved and other HR systems, ensuring data integrity.
• Collaborate with management to develop contracts and agreements for new hires or contractors.
• Handles employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex and/or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff.
• Attends and participates in employee disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
• Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommends best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance.
• Monitor employee morale and company culture.
• Communicate complaints regarding sexual harassment, discrimination, or other instances of workplace harassment and assist in any necessary investigations and disciplinary actions.
• Maintain and manage the inventory of office, cleaning, and general supplies, ensure proper reordering as needed, and oversee the maintenance and functionality of office equipment to ensure a well-stocked and efficiently organized office environment.
• Assist guests and visitors, answer phone calls, and respond to general email inquiries, maintaining a professional and welcoming atmosphere.
• Support the day-to-day operations with miscellaneous administrative tasks
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Education:Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Experience:At least 3 years of human resources experience preferred.
• Ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Some understanding of state and federal employment regulations
• Awareness of OSHA regulations and compliance
• Understanding of personnel and compliance records management
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, work in varying temperatures, and prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Bilingual English/Spanish a strongly encouraged

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Job Title: Customer Service Representative
Department: Customer Service 
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Reports to: Customer Service Manager
Job Type: Regular 
Amount of Travel Required: N/A
Positions Supervised: 0 
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, weekends as needed

Position Summary:

Nourse Farms is a small fruit nursery located in the Connecticut River Valley of Western Massachusetts. Our mission is to provide growers with high-quality plants and exceptional customer service. Nourse is looking for a Customer Service Representative to join our growing team. This position reports directly to the Customer Service Manager and is a full-time, on-site position at our Office in Whately. We are seeking candidates with a passion for Agriculture and 6+ months experience in the Farming, Nursery and/or Horticulture industries.

Primary Duties:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support potential customers by answering questions and providing appropriate suggestions for products and services.
• Provide cultural practice advice to customers including variety selection and planting and care instructions.
• Resolve product or service problems by clarifying the customer’s complaint.
• Maintain data integrity by confirming customer information is correct and updating our records appropriately.
• Assist customers in placing orders by relaying information regarding order minimums, pricing, and shipping dates.
• Execute complete input of sales orders into our operating system, NetSuite.
• Increase knowledge of product lines and growing practices by participating in educational sessions & team meetings.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation.
• Share recommendations for/against potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing needs.
• Participate in cross-training program including work in the greenhouse, lab, shipping/packing and field during the off-season to learn more about our operation.

Qualifications:

• Above and beyond customer service and communication skills;
• Ability to work and grow with a team;
• Comfortable problem solving in the moment;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs;
• Has a positive attitude, patience and excellent multi-tasking skills;
• Willingness to learn new things in a changing environment;
• Dependable and self-motivated;
• Reliable transportation; and
• Physical ability to carry out tasks of job (including the cross-training program) which will require employee to lift up to 50 lbs., have physical stamina, and work in all weather.

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Job Title: Grower – Mills River, NC
Department: Production 
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Reports to: General Manager
Job Type: Regular 
Amount of Travel Required: None
Positions Supervised: 0 
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, rotating weekends

Position Summary:

Nourse Farms is a leading player in the plant propagation industry, known for their commitment to excellence in providing high-quality plant stock. Nourse Farms is seeking a motivated and dedicated Grower to support the Head Grower in the management and care of small fruit plants at our facility in Mills River, NC. The Grower will play a vital role in maintaining plant health, implementing growing practices, and ensuring the success of our horticultural operations.

Primary Duties:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plant Husbandry: Assist in the planting of crops in our facility’s gutter, and . engage in ongoing plant maintenance activities, such as removing flowers, pruning leaves, and adhering to a preventative spray schedule to ensure plant health.
• Greenhouse Operations: Collaborate with the Head Grower to manage all aspects of greenhouse operations, including monitoring environmental conditions, runner production tasks, irrigation and nutrition management, and integrated pest management strategies. Ensure efficient and timely completion of all greenhouse activities while maintaining optimal growth conditions for plants.
• Inventory Management: Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records of plant varieties, maintain accurate records of tasks related to grow bags, planting, plant maintenance, tip inventory and other greenhouse-related activities such as scouting, applying pesticides and biological controls.
• Quality Control & Sanitation: Support quality control efforts to ensure that all plants meet or exceed established quality standards. Assist in greenhouse clean-out and sanitation before transition to new production.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate closely with the Head Grower and other team members to execute growing plans, communicate plant care needs, and contribute to the success of the growing operations.
• Standard Operating Procedures and High Standards: Collaborate with Head Grower to develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the facility, ensuring the highest standards of cultivation and production are consistently met.
• Priva Software Utilization and Data Analysis: Proficiently utilize Priva climate and labor management software to monitor and control greenhouse climate conditions, labor activities, and collect data related to plant growth, yield, and environmental conditions. Use this information to fine-tune cultivation techniques, optimize greenhouse operations for efficiency and productivity, and contribute to the optimization of plant growth.
• Equipment and Facility Maintenance: Participate in the maintenance and repair of equipment and facilities as needed to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.
• Training and Development: Engage in continuous learning and training to enhance horticultural knowledge and skills.
• Additional Duties: Collaborate with Head Grower on other tasks and responsibilities related to greenhouse operations, as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field (preferred).
• 2 years' experience in greenhouse operations or agricultural work.
• Basic knowledge of greenhouse operations, including Priva experience a plus
• Must have a North Carolina Pesticide license.
• Strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as climbing ladders, lifting 50 lb., bending, and operating equipment.
• Eagerness to contribute to a dynamic and collaborative team.

Click here to apply now.