[PCA] JOB: Plant Propagator (Claremont, CA)

[Plant Conservation]

RANCHO SANTA ANA BOTANIC GARDEN
1500 North College Ave. Claremont, CA.  91711

Position Title:  Plant Propagator
Position Start Date:  September 2004
Reports to:  Nursery Manager

Basic Function:
Responsible for the propagation of plants grown for the Garden's living
collection, research, contracts, and plant sales. Accomplishes care and
maintenance of nursery plants and facilities, pesticide spraying,
supervising staff, interns and volunteers as directed by the Nursery
Manager. This is a full time position with a generous benefit package.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Propagating plants by seed, cuttings, grafting, etc. for Rancho Santa
Ana Botanic Garden's living collection, research, contracts, and plant
sales as needed or as directed.

2. Performing nursery work (watering, labeling, transplanting, mixing
soil, pruning, weeding, cleaning, raking, removal of dead plants, etc.).

3. Maintaining accurate and complete plant records (including computerized
records) documenting all propagation efforts, methodology, soil mixes,
transplanting, etc. on a daily basis.

4. Assists with training and supervision of nursery personnel, interns,
and volunteers as necessary or as directed by Nursery Manager.

5. Responsibility for the nursery care and maintenance, including watering
on at least one weekend day each week.

6. Assists with control of pests and diseases using appropriate biological
or chemical controls.

7. Applying pesticides, fungicides, fertilizers, and other products as
needed or as directed.

8. Accomplishing directed and self-initiated experiments and preparing
results for publication in appropriate journals.

9. Assists with Garden plant sales operations: planning, set up, sales,
labeling and signage.

10. Assists with other appropriate aspects of Horticulture and Garden
operations as required.

Qualifications:

Minimum of AA degree in horticulture or related field and/or demonstrated
appropriate work experience. Must have knowledge of California native
plants and their propagation and horticultural requirements. Basic
computer skills essential, familiarity with BG Base a plus. Must be
willing and able to work outdoors year round. Must possess or acquire a
State of California Qualified Applicator Certificate, and a California
State Driver's License. Ability to maneuver in narrow (18"-24") path
spaces required. Physical strength sufficient to safely lift and carry
bags of  soil components (50-60 lbs.) essential. Ability to follow
instructions, supervise personnel, work successfully with others, and
independently with minimal supervision critical.

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is an equal opportunity employer. All
applications will be evaluated on a merit basis. For consideration, please
submit an application and a brief letter detailing your interest and
qualifications for this position to: Personnel; Rancho Santa Ana Botanic
Garden; 1500 North College Avenue; Claremont, CA. 91711. This position is
open until filled.