Plant Conservation Specialist I

Mojave Desert Restoration Nursery  |  Joshua Tree, California  |  Regular full-time • In person

Grow native plants. Restore desert landscapes. Make a lasting impact.

Mojave Desert Land Trust (MDLT) is seeking a Plant Conservation Specialist I to help grow the native plants that support healthier desert communities and the restoration of degraded lands across the Mojave and Colorado Deserts. This is an opportunity to develop specialized nursery and conservation skills while making a tangible difference in the California desert.

This is more than a routine nursery role. You will contribute to native plant propagation and cultivation, conservation seed work, plant health, accurate production tracking, and the day-to-day effectiveness of MDLT’s Mojave Desert Restoration Nursery. You will work alongside an experienced team, build proficiency with established techniques, and use careful observation and sound judgment to recognize when something needs attention.

The opportunity

This is a Specialist I position (Grade 6) with direct supervision and guidance from the Nursery Manager and experienced colleagues. You will develop proficiency across nursery production and seed conservation activities, follow established protocols, document your work carefully, recognize concerns early, and communicate when guidance or corrective action is needed.

What you will do

• Propagate and grow native desert plants from seeds and cuttings; manage transplanting, watering, thinning, pruning, weeding, and other cultivation needs.
• Monitor plant health, identify emerging production issues, and use integrated pest management (IPM) and nursery sanitation practices, including measures to prevent Phytophthora and other pathogens.
• Maintain and troubleshoot nursery infrastructure, irrigation and cooling systems, equipment, tools, production beds, gardens, and grounds.
• Collect, process, test, and track native seed, contributing to seed conservation, seed production, and restoration programs.
• Record propagation methods, plant observations, actions, and inventory accurately using paper and digital tools; help prepare protocols and reports.
• Work with and guide volunteers, collaborate with colleagues and restoration partners, and assist with native plant sales and plant deliveries.
• Contribute to restoration-related projects such as seed amplification trials, herbarium specimens, and other field or nursery initiatives.

What you bring

• At least one year of horticultural or botanical experience, including nursery production, agriculture, landscaping, restoration, or related work.
• A bachelor’s degree in agriculture, horticulture, botany, or a related field, or compelling equivalent education and experience.
• Practical understanding of plant care, especially watering and cultivation; attention to detail; a reliable, safety-conscious approach; and strong teamwork and communication.
• The ability to follow established protocols, work independently on assigned tasks as skills develop, recognize problems, and ask for guidance when appropriate.
• Competence with Microsoft Office and a valid California Class C driver’s license in good standing.

Experience with native desert plants, volunteer coordination, integrated pest management, 4WD vehicles or trailers, and Survey123, Field Maps, or similar digital data tools is especially helpful. These are not all prerequisites for applying.

Where and how you will work

This is an in-person position at MDLT’s Native Plant Nursery in Joshua Tree. It normally follows MDLT’s 9/80 schedule: 80 hours over two weeks, with every other Friday off. Occasional evening and weekend work is required. There is occasional travel through MDLT’s desert service area in organization vehicles; related travel begins at headquarters. The work is physically active and involves nursery and outdoor conditions, including temperature extremes, dust, tools, equipment, and regularly lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified applicants.

Why MDLT

At MDLT, meaningful conservation work and a collaborative workplace go hand in hand. Our four values—Solve for the Desert, Foster Trust, Dig Deep, and Seek Joy—guide the way we care for desert ecosystems and work with one another. We offer a 9/80 schedule, a comprehensive benefits program, paid time off, paid winter break, and a retirement savings plan with employer matching, subject to plan terms.

Compensation

This is a Plant Conservation Specialist I (Grade 6), non-exempt position. Anticipated starting pay: $22.50 – $23.50 per hour.

Equal opportunity employment

MDLT is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable law. We value varied pathways into conservation, including relevant practical experience.