Assistant Propagation Manager in Medford, New Jersey at Medford Nursery Inc

Propagation & Production

• Assist with the daily management of cutting, preparation, and sticking operations according to production schedules and established specifications.
• Learn and ensure proper propagation techniques, including selecting, preparing, and sticking quality plant material.
• Scout stock plants and cutting locations for appropriate propagation material.
• Monitor production quality, productivity, and progress toward departmental goals.
• Assist with preparation and monitoring of rooting solutions.
• Monitor and restock inventory of rooting hormone, sanitation solutions, PPE, and other essential propagation supplies.
• Learn proper pruning techniques and strategies to support quality liner production.
• Monitor rooting progress and root health on freshly stuck cuttings and update tracking reports with accurate information.
• Help coordinate cutting crew transportation and daily work assignments.
• Work closely with the Propagation Manager to meet weekly and seasonal production objectives.

Crop & Liner Management

• Update liner inventory with accurate crop descriptions and other relevant plant and production information within Traverse.
• Check soil moisture and misting requirements.
• Monitor plants for signs of disease, insects, damage, or other concerns and communicate issues promptly.
• Assist with maintaining appropriate cultural conditions, including shade, ventilation, heating, and moisture.
• Monitor proper operation of misting and sprinkler systems and communicate maintenance needs.
• Gain an understanding of fertilizer programs for young plant liners and learn to operate and monitor the fertilizer injection system.
• Become familiar with the operation of greenhouse heaters and temperature-monitoring technology and assist with close monitoring both, particularly during the winter months.
• Maintain accurate plant identification, labeling, and signage.
• Maintain clean, organized, and productive propagation areas.
• Coordinate with the Containering Manager and supervisors regarding liner readiness for potting, as well as the transportation and containering of liners.

Leadership & Employee Development

• Assist with training employees on proper propagation procedures and work responsibilities.
• Provide day-to-day direction and support to propagation employees as assigned.
• Monitor work quality, productivity, and adherence to company procedures.
• Promote a safe, productive, and positive work environment.
• Develop or maintain a working proficiency in Spanish to support effective communication with propagation employees and the ability to communicate technical concepts and production expectations.
• Develop the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to assume greater responsibility within the Propagation department.

Production Planning & Department Support

• Assist with production planning, scheduling, and tracking as directed by the Propagation Manager.
• Prepare production reports and maintain accurate records.
• Participate in weekly Production Meetings and communicate relevant propagation updates, goals, and challenges.
• Work with the Maintenance Department to address equipment or mechanical issues.
• Assist the Propagation Manager with projects, research, crop planning, and process improvements.
• As training and experience develop, take on additional responsibilities within Propagation and other areas of Production as determined by management.

Continuous Improvement

• Learn and stay current on propagation methods, crop production practices, and industry developments.
• Assist in researching new techniques, varieties, and processes that may improve plant quality, efficiency, or production.
• Identify opportunities to improve workflow, productivity, and overall department performance.

Management Support

• Serve as a key support to the Propagation Manager in the day-to-day operation of the department.
• Develop the knowledge and experience necessary to provide management coverage when needed.
• Work collaboratively with other Production Managers and departments to support overall nursery operations.
• Assist other departments and managers as needed.

• Experience or education in horticulture, nursery production, landscaping, agriculture, or a related field preferred.
• A strong interest in plant production and propagation.
• Leadership, supervisory, or team-leading experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to learn technical production processes and apply them consistently.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, seasonal nursery environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to take initiative.
• Ability to work hands-on alongside the production team.
• Basic Spanish proficiency preferred. Candidates without Spanish proficiency should be willing to develop a working proficiency to support effective communication with propagation employees.
• A willingness to learn, develop, and take on increasing responsibility.