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: Executive Assistant
Department: Administrative 
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Reports to: CEO; Also supports Executive Leadership Team
Job Type: Regular 
Amount of Travel Required: 25%
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday 
Positions Supervised: 0

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 Executive Assistant to support our company’s operations and initiatives. The Executive Assistant will be responsible for performing a wide variety of sensitive, complex work which requires independent judgment and a high degree of discretion. The position collaborates with other Executives & Administrative Assistants. The Executive Assistant establishes and maintains effective working relationships with family members, Board members, the executive team, and others in the company. This position interacts with customers, consultants, visitors, and guests of Nourse Farms. This role is crucial in ensuring smooth operations and effective communication within the department and across the organization.

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:

• Provide high-level, confidential administrative support to the Executive Leadership Team.
• Actively manage calendars as requested, including reviewing incoming meeting invitations & scheduling meetings. Responds to meeting requests in a timely manner and recommends adjustments as needed.
• Reviews all incoming emails, determines priority, coordinates information flow, and responds to or tracks responses accordingly.
• Support recruitment, interviews, and training as appropriate.
• Assist executives in remaining on task for major deliverables, such as Board reports.
• Anticipate needs and react accordingly preparing material, compiling information, and collaborating with others to meet deadlines.
• Coordinate meeting arrangements both on and off-site, securing equipment, catering services, and logistics needs such as travel, lodging, and registrations.
• Compose and prepare confidential spreadsheets, advanced presentations, reports, and other complex documents. Complete various research projects as directed.
• Coordinate with the designated travel agent on arranging domestic and international travel plans and itineraries. Keep assigned executives updated with relevant information needed while traveling.
• Gather receipts and related information to compile and complete expense reports in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain confidential, executive files and information. Create and maintain systems to organize and track data.
• Make all necessary arrangements for various meetings, functional events, and other company-wide gatherings.
• Schedule and attend meetings on behalf of executives, taking notes and recording minutes.
• Provide historical reference by developing and utilizing filing and retrieval systems and recording meeting discussions.
• Record written or dictated notes and organize for efficient further use.
• Serve as a liaison between employees and other Executive Team members.
• Provide backup to other Executive & Administrative Assistant positions.
• Assure the highest level of confidentiality on sensitive matters concerning the company.
• Support and perpetuates Nourse Farms core values and corporate culture.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies.
• Provide back-up support of system access and general technical support as needed.
• Perform special projects and other work as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, or equivalent combination of education and experience required
• Experience: 4+ years of administrative support experience with 2+ years’ experience providing high level support to an executive.
• Bilingual Spanish strongly recommended.
• Extremely proficient with Microsoft Office suite and similar software with the ability to learn new or updated software.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with proven track record of meeting deadlines, taking initiative, ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prepare confidential, complex reports, correspondence, presentations, other written materials, performing data analysis, and creating reports. Strong writing and grammar skills required.
• Ability to effectively make decisions independently and use good judgment in recognizing scope of authority.
• Extremely proactive, with the ability to anticipate the needs of others and work under minimal supervision.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various departments and other stakeholders. Ability to communicate effectively using tact, courtesy, and good judgment while representing the company in a positive manner. Must have a high level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and relationships.
• Must demonstrate professional and ethical business practices, adherence to company values, and a commitment to personal and professional development.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges
• Physical Stamina: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and working in varying temperatures

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:

• Understanding of irrigation
• Basic mechanics of greenhouses work from changing glass to maintaining gutter systems
• Basic automation skills
• 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: 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.

Job Title: Production Supervisor
Department: Operations 
Job Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Reports to: General Manager
Job Type: Regular 
Amount of Travel Required: N/A
Positions Supervised: 25 greenhouse crew plus 50 seasonally
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, some Saturdays

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 Production Supervisor to support our facility in Mills River, North Carolina greenhouse operations. Working closely with the Growers and Team Leads, the Supervisor will develop responsibility for managing and inspiring the work crew in the greenhouse and field, including problem-solving, doing quality control, and generally ensuring that farm systems are maintained. The ability to delegate and effectively keep track of people, time, tasks and systems is key. This position requires quick hands, positive attitude and strong observation skills. Expect the work to be physically and mentally demanding, with long hours indoors and outdoors in all weather. Most tasks require quality work at a quick pace, often under pressure. 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:

• Responsible for the labor force results by communicating job expectations; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; coaching, counseling, and disciplining employees; initiating, coordinating, and enforcing systems, policies, and procedures to meet productivity goals and quality standards.
• Support growing and packhouse operations; maintain workflow by monitoring steps of the process; setting processing variables; observing control points and equipment.
• Monitor employees and other resources; review methods; implement cost reductions; develop reporting procedures and systems; implement corrective actions.
• Ensure that all employees adhere to statutory hygiene protocols, health and safety guidelines, company policies and procedures.
• Resolve employee complaints and concerns by analyzing information, investigating issues, identifying solutions, recommending action; coordinate with Human Resources to effectively coach workers and/or deliver corrective counselling where appropriate.
• Initiate and foster a spirit of collaboration and teamwork within and between departments.
• Review equipment maintenance schedules; arrange repairs as needed; evaluate new equipment and techniques.
• Managing team leads, and all crews of greenhouse workers that fluctuate in number seasonally from 20 to 100 workers in all greenhouse activities. The high season is planting mother plants January through March and then May through October when we are shipping plants.
• Manages the flow of the workers and improving efficiency in all tasks.
• Ensure workers have all the tools necessary to complete their tasks.
• Plans a weekly work schedule for the workers and communication between departments to ensure a smooth flow.
• Check employee timecards and partner with Human Resources as needed.
• Learning how the equipment for the greenhouse, tray field, and packing works, managing the training of the workers and ensuring that the equipment is properly used when in operation.
• Ensuring that the sanitary measures and rules put in place are being enforced with the staff and that staff are properly trained.
• Keeping accurate records of labor for tracking purposes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience required.
• Experience: 4+ years of supervisory experience, required, greenhouse experience preferred.
• Bilingual English and Spanish strongly preferred.
• 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.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various departments and other stakeholders.
• Proven ability to detect plant diseases and the existence of insects
• Computer Skills required, Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Knowledge of PRIVA greenhouse climate control system, preferred.
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in varying temperatures.

Click here to apply now.