Introduction

Upper Colorado Environmental Plant Center (UCEPC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is hiring for the role of Native Plant Field Manager. This is a full-time position in Meeker, Colorado. The Native Plant Field Manager position is responsible for facilitating center operations including planning conducting native plant and seed production, collecting accurate data on seed trails, maintaining equipment, facilitating seed processing, and developing solutions to conservation challenges.

UCEPC has been owned and operated by the White River and Douglas Creek Conservation Districts since 1975.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Year Round:
  • Collaborate with the UCEPC Manager and staff to develop and execute the Annual Plan of Operations validating priorities and production goals.
  • Develop and manage seasonal (monthly & weekly) work schedules, maintaining accurate daily records of all activities.
  • Implement and oversee field production, plant evaluation, and seed trials for successful crop production, data collection and continuous improvement of native plant material.
    • The Native Plant Field Manager is responsible for all activities related to production.
  • Accurately recording detailed records of all plant and seed production activities, organizing data so it is accessible, supports planning, reporting, and decision-making using Microsoft and Excel.
  • Coordinate daily and long-term priorities with the Manager to optimize labor efficiency workflow across all operations.
  • Safely operate and oversee the use and maintenance of farm equipment (tractors, combines, trucks, irrigation equipment, sprayers, ATVs, seed cleaning equipment & other harvesters).
• Summer:
  • Supervise and direct seasonal staff (H2A & Part Time Laborers), assuring tasks are clearly communicated, completed efficiently, and meet quality standards.
  • Coordinate plant preparation activities with Fieldmen and Technicians
    • Planting increase fields, products for reimbursable and cooperative agreements, research projects, and off-center seed collections.
  • Support and coordinate all field operations with staff communicating timely and effective execution of production activities:
    • Plant propagation & cultivation.
    • Manage fertilization and pesticide applications (will be expected to obtain commercial pesticide applicator license, but will operate under Manager’s license until its obtained).
    • Irrigation and weed control.
    • Lead harvest operations, operating harvest machinery (combine, flail-vac, and swather). As well as servicing machinery during use and cleaning between different crop harvests.
    • Oversee seedbed preparation (seed, bare-root, cutting, or potted plants).
  • Utilize mapping software like ArcMap and onX to delineate fields and mark perennial weeds.  
  • Inspect, support, and troubleshoot irrigations systems including the Miller Creek Ditch infrastructure and all associated equipment to ensure consistent water delivery across all sites.
  • Oversee and maintain water systems supporting headquarters & surrounding facilities, including the greenhouse, residence, office, and seed building.
• Winter:
  • Direct & execute the seed cleaning process, managing the use of advanced equipment to maintain standards of quality & productivity.
  • Service all equipment, vehicles, buildings, and systems routinely, ensuring compliance and productivity.
  • Identify conservation challenges and support development of plant material solutions.
    • Identify these problems and recognize plant attributes and potential successful application of those attributes to various resource needs.
  • Plan & support all project activities, including timing, implementation and delivery of products.
  • Facilitate presentations during on-site tours, as well as pursue professional development at meetings and conferences to develop relationships and enhance technical skills and knowledge.
  • Manage plant and seed storage systems, confirming proper conditions, organization and preservation of materials.
  • Oversee winterization and seasonal maintenance activities, ensuring facilities and equipment are preserved for changing conditions.
  • Manage greenhouse operations, securing appropriate environmental conditions and care for plant materials throughout the winter season.
• All individuals are to keep in mind that the outlined activities and schedule will vary according to weather, field conditions, and unexpected occurrences. Daily modifications will be set in place by the Manager.
• Work cooperatively and professionally with all UCEPC personnel to achieve the stated goals of UCEPC, conducting all activities in accordance with the Employee Handbook. Perform duties with fairness, respect, and collaboration toward coworkers, visitors, and partners; promptly communicate any issues or concerns to the Manager. Provide timely, non-discriminatory assistance and demonstrate sensitivity and understanding when working with diverse and targeted groups.
• The employee is responsible for other duties as assigned by the UCEPC Manager and/or Administrative Board.

Supervisory Control

The position is under the general supervision of the UCEPC Manager, but will mentor and work alongside all other staff members. 

Preferred Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource, Agriculture, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum three years of experience in agriculture operations, machinery operation, and basic mechanical skills.
• Minimum three years of experience in natural resources, conservation, reclamation, and land restoration.
• Strong record keeping & data management related to trials and production activities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving ability, strong communication skills
• Ability to perform regular outdoor, physically demanding work in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to travel for off-site collections, plantings & occasional conferences or meetings as assigned.