Job Description

Seed Orchard Specialist

We are currently seeking to fill an existing vacancy on our team.

Join PRT as a Seed Orchard Specialist in West Verbena, Alabama, where you'll be actively shaping the landscape of tomorrow by effectively participating in our new cutting-edge seed processing facility. In this vital role, you will be at the forefront of sustainable forestry, producing top-quality, genetically improved Southern Pine seed. This is a unique, hands-on position perfect for someone who loves both technical production and machinery; you will safely operate advanced seed processing systems while leading the routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the facility's equipment. If you are looking to combine a passion for forestry with strong mechanical skills, we want you on our team.

What will YOU be doing as a Seed Specialist?

As a Seed Orchard Specialist , you’ll contribute directly to the future of our forests through hands-on work in pine cone – seed processing, seed production, and team collaboration. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Seed Orchard Operations: * Assist the Seed Sourcing & Processing Manager in planning, implementing, and overseeing all seed orchard activities, including:
  • Orchard establishment and maintenance
  • Grafting operations
  • Fertilization and herbicide/insecticide applications
  • Controlled Mass Pollination (CMP)
  • Cone harvest
    • Maintain meticulous records of all orchard activities, including cone harvest collection, CMP bagging, pollen inventory, grafting maps, and other crucial data.
    • Continuously evaluate orchard operations, identify areas for improvement, and implement innovative solutions to enhance safety, efficiency, and accuracy.
    • Ensure proper maintenance of all equipment and maintain accurate service records.
    • Regularly inspect orchard facilities to address housekeeping and safety concerns.
    • Play a key role in CMP production efforts, ensuring optimal pollen collection, storage, and application.
    • Oversee the care of orchards, equipment, and facilities to ensure the development of future cone crops.
• Equipment Handling: * Safely operate a range of equipment including tractors, forklifts, boom lifts, UTVs, and power tools.
• Team Leadership & Development: * Foster a culture of safety and ensure adherence to all PRT safety policies and procedures. * Supervise and coordinate the activities of the Seed Orchards in Alabama.
• Recordkeeping & Tracking: Maintain accurate records of seed processing activities and track progress against key production and timeline targets.
• Collaboration & Reporting: * Collaborate with the Seed Sourcing & Processing Manager on:
  • Developing annual capital plans and budgets
  • Developing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Managing and reporting on contract labor crews
    • Effectively communicate key findings and improvement ideas to management.
    • Work with internal and external resources to achieve production and research objectives in a safe and efficient manner.

Qualifications

What YOU bring to the table

You’re a dynamic and driven professional who brings technical skill, field experience, and a collaborative mindset to support and strengthen our seed orchard operations.

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in horticulture, agriculture, or forestry, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills that ensures clarity and alignment across all aspects of operations.
• Excellent mechanical skills along with experience diagnosing and repairing minor mechanical breakdowns effectively.
• Proficiency with digital tools including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Epicor.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt in a dynamic work environment.
• Confidence working independently or as part of a team environment.
• Practical skills in operating and maintaining equipment, including seed processing equipment, forklifts, tractors, UTVs, and tools for safe use.
• Reliability and flexibility, with a willingness to work full-time—including weekdays and weekends during peak seasons.

Additional Information

Next Steps:

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.

We embrace openness and different perspectives to challenge conventional approaches and continuously improve our company’s performance and progress. We believe that diversity of thought helps us drive innovation, make better decisions, achieve effective stewardship of our business and enable our people to thrive.

We encourage you to connect with us at human.resources@prt.com for more information about our accessible workplace, including disability accommodation for the recruitment process and beyond.

Still want to learn more?

Follow us on Instagram: @TrustedToGrow, @IFCOSeedlings or

Facebook: @PRTGrowingServices

LinkedIn: @PRTGrowingServices, @IFCOSeedlings

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