Seed Orchard Specialist

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.