The Polly Hill Arboretum

The Polly Hill Arboretum
Job Description
Job Title: Plant Propagator
Department: Living Collections and Grounds
Supervisor: Curator
Salary Classification: Full-time/non-exempt
Last Update of Job Description: September 15, 2017
General Summary: This position is responsible for all aspects of plant propagation and production including the maintenance and development of plant production facilities. This position participates as a member of the living collections team and has a secondary responsibility in the care and maintenance of the Arboretum’s living collection and grounds. The propagator will participate in seed collection expeditions as necessary.
Education/Qualifications:

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  Associates degree (Bachelor’s degree preferred) in horticulture or a closely related field and 3 years professional experience working with plants in a propagation/production setting.
  
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  Knowledge of and experience in plant propagation, and managing in-ground and container stock production
  
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  Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team that includes staff, interns and volunteers
  
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  Proven ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
  
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  Knowledge of a diverse range of native and exotic plants, including a familiarity with scientific names.
  
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  Ability to work outside in a variety of weather conditions and the ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
  
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  Willingness to lead tours, teach classes, and actively participate in the Arboretum’s educational programs
  
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  Must possess a valid driver’s license
  
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  A passion for plants and a genuine interest to continually learn and develop as a horticulturist
  

Work Schedule: This position is full-time, 35 hours per week and generally Monday – Friday, 8:00-3:30. Weekend duty is required and assigned on a rotational basis. Emergency situations and participation in special events may be required beyond this schedule. Weekly hours in excess of 35 must be pre-approved by supervisor or in response to an emergency situation.
Primary Responsibilities:

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  Plant production:
  

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  Propagate a diverse range of woody and herbaceous plants by sexual and asexual means.
  
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  Care for and maintain plant propagation and production facilities on a daily and seasonal basis including greenhouse, shadehouse, overwintering facilities, irrigation systems, in-ground nursery and their associated infrastructure
  
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  Maintain and further develop proper cultural and sanitary conditions to meet propagation and plant production needs.
  
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  With curator, establish priorities and goals for producing plants for the living collection, for PHA’s MV Wildtype program, and for plant sales.
  
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  Apply principles of IPM in management of insect & disease problems, and have an ability and willingness to apply pesticides when necessary.
  
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  Maintain detailed records of propagation and production activities using IRIS BG software.
  
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  Maintain up-to-date inventory of nursery plant material for collections, plant sales, and research
  
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  Distribute seeds and plants per outside requests from colleagues.
  

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  Programs, events and visitor support:
  

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  Assist with Arboretum events as required
  
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  Develop and teach courses (minimum one per year) for PHA’s adult education program.
  
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  Lead tours of production facilities for visiting colleagues and donors, as needed or requested.
  
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  Lead tours of grounds for specialized groups or regularly scheduled tours as needed or requested.
  
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  Engage with visitors in a professional & helpful way to enhance their experience, perception and appreciation of the Arboretum
  

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  Professional Development
  
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    Attend professional meetings, workshops, and seminars as appropriate to plant propagation & production.
    
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    Maintain certification as a licensed Massachusetts pesticide applicator.
    
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    Maintain awareness of current research and practices relevant to plant propagation and production.
    
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    Develop and maintain cooperative professional relationships with public garden and green industry colleagues.
    

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  Interns & Volunteers
  
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    Participate in the hiring process of interns
    
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    Teach, train, direct activities of and engage with interns to provide a meaningful educational experience.
    
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    Train, supervise and work with volunteers in the plant production area; and, with volunteer coordinator, identify needs and recruit volunteers as needed.
    

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  PHA Work Environment
  
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    Fully engage with staff, interns and volunteers and through effective communication and professional behavior help to maintain a positive, respectful and progressive work environment.
    
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    Maintain an active and engaged interest in all PHA activities and programs.
    
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    Develop a thorough understanding of PHA’s history and mission and how its programs and activities support the mission and the Arboretum’s relevance to the communities with which it is engaged.
    

Secondary Responsibilities:

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  Assist the collections team with maintaining the Arboretum’s living collections and grounds to the highest standards. This includes all facets of grounds support including planting, arboriculture, garden renovations, and general maintenance tasks.
  

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  Participate in the maintenance of Arboretum buildings, facilities and infrastructure including but not limited to minor repairs, snow removal, maintenance of paths and driveways, maintenance of stone walls, maintenance of natural lands and trails, and scheduled seasonal duties.
  

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  Other job duties as assigned
  

Job descriptions are guidelines that attempt to characterize major duties and responsibilities of employees. These duties are subject to change as needs and programs change. At The Polly Hill Arboretum they are not considered either inclusive or exclusive. It is anticipated that up to 20% of your job responsibilities will change annually. Salary, benefits, and additional information is available by contacting Todd Rounsaville, Curator, [e-mail]

Application Instructions: To apply please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to [e-mail] or by mail to Polly Hill Arboretum, PO Box 561, West Tisbury, MA 02575, Attn: Todd Rounsaville.