Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Lead

Savvyherb; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Mental health support

Flexible PTO

EAP

Paid parental leave

401(k) with company match

Pet insurance

Employee discounts

Recognition program

Disability & life insurance

Job summary

TerrAscend is seeking an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Lead to implement pest management plans, lead the IPM team, and support cultivation tasks. You will ensure compliance with SOPs and state regulations while maintaining safety and documentation.

The role requires knowledge of cannabis pests, strong organizational skills, and flexibility for weekend/holiday work. In a fast-paced facility, you will manage IPM activities and collaborate with cultivation staff to optimize crop health.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management methods and the ability to identify pests and pathogens specific to Cannabis.
• Knowledge of growing practices such as cloning, transplanting, pruning, training, watering, etc.
• Ability to execute techniques accurately and consistently.
• Good documentation, inventory, and organizational skills.
• Ability to keep to a tight schedule.
• Ability to maintain excellent punctuality and attendance.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent verbal interpersonal communication skills to interact with team members.
• Basic weights and measurements skills, ability to operate a scale.
• Flexibility with hours and days – must be available to work every weekends, holidays when required, and overtime when necessary.

Responsibilities

• Follow all SOPs, verbal directives, and policies when performing daily operational duties and fully comply with state regulations.
• Acquire a proficient knowledge of plant diseases, insects, and fungi, as well as plant treatment options.
• Follow detailed IPM plans and timelines for plant production from beginning to end of crop cycles (clone to harvest).
• Perform routine monitoring, scouting, and documentation of plant population in all stages of plant development for problems revolving around insect pests, pathogens, viruses, etc.
• Act as a Team Lead and lead by example for the rest of the Pest Management team.
• Annually complete a respirator fit test with a certified physician if needed.
• Apply crop protection agents under the direct supervision.
• Document application of crop protection agents (Biological Control Agents, Pesticides, etc.) in accordance with California regulations.
• Identify and execute preventative maintenance and elimination of all types of pests and pathogens.
• Maintain and clean the PPE needed for all IPM duties (e.g. Respirators, Foot-baths, Tyvek Suits/Chemical Jackets, etc.).
• Maintain/clean equipment (hand pump sprayers, heavy duty sprayers, etc.) under the direction of a certified pesticide applicator.
• Assist with cleaning rooms after harvest and preparing for room re-loads.
• Performs cultivation tasks as assigned.
• Sweeps, mops, and assists with cleaning tasks daily.

Skills

Cannabis pest knowledge

IPM methods

Plant cultivation knowledge

Documentation & organization

Flexibility for weekends/holidays

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

PPE & Respirators

Equipment maintenance

Job description

• TerrAscend is hiring an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Lead responsible for implementing the company's pest management plans, leading the IPM team, assisting with cultivation tasks, and ensuring compliance with SOPs and state regulations.
• Key duties include monitoring plant health, applying crop protection agents safely, maintaining equipment and PPE, documenting treatments, and supporting room cleaning and preparation for harvest cycles.
• Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED, knowledge of cannabis pests and cultivation practices, strong organizational and communication skills, flexibility for weekend/holiday work, and must pass a background check and be at least 21 years old.
• The position offers $18-$20/hour plus comprehensive benefits including health coverage, mental health support, PTO, 401(k) with company match, employee discounts, and requires working in physically demanding, variable environmental conditions with safety gear.

A leading North American cannabis operator

At TerrAscend, we don’t just grow cannabis - we grow possibility. Whether it's cultivating top-tier flower, supporting patients with trusted therapies, or crafting premium products for adult use, we’re here to elevate lives. As a trailblazer in the cannabis industry, our roots run deep and our sights are set high. If you're ready to shape the future of cannabis with a team that believes in quality, care, and community - let’s grow together.

Position Description

• The IPM Lead is responsible for carrying out tasks in a manner that follows the company’s Standard Operating Procedures to support the cultivation facilities Integrated Pest Management plan. The IPM Lead will also be expected to assist the Cultivation Associates with plant maintenance, and everyday cultivation tasks as needed. The Lead will be held accountable for the IPM team's effort and will be responsible for leading by example.

Responsibilities

• Follow all SOPs, verbal directives, and policies when performing daily operational duties and fully comply with state regulations
• Acquire a proficient knowledge of plant diseases, insects, and fungi, as well as plant treatment options
• Follow detailed IPM plans and timelines for plant production from beginning to end of crop cycles (clone to harvest)
• Perform routine monitoring, scouting, and documentation of plant population in all stages of plant development for problems revolving around insect pests, pathogens, viruses, etc.
• Act as a Team Lead and lead by example for the rest of the Pest Management team
• Annually complete a respirator fit test with a certified physician if needed
• Apply crop protection agents under the direct supervision
• Document application of crop protection agents (Biological Control Agents, Pesticides, etc.) in accordance with California regulations
• Identify and execute preventative maintenance and elimination of all types of pests and pathogens
• Maintain and clean the PPE needed for all IPM duties (e.g. Respirators, Foot-baths, Tyvek Suits/Chemical Jackets, etc.)
• Maintain/clean equipment (hand pump sprayers, heavy duty sprayers, etc.) under the direction of a certified pesticide applicator
• Assist with cleaning rooms after harvest and preparing for room re-loads
• Performs cultivation tasks as assigned
• Sweep, mop, and assist with cleaning tasks daily.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)
• Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management methods and the ability to identify pests and pathogens specific to Cannabis
• Knowledge of growing practices, such as cloning, transplanting, pruning, training, watering, etc.
• Ability to execute techniques accurately and consistently
• Good documentation, inventory, and organizational skills
• Ability to keep to a tight schedule
• Ability to maintain excellent punctuality and attendance
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent verbal interpersonal communication skills to interact with team members
• Basic weights and measurements skills, ability to operate a scale
• Flexibility with hours and days – must be available to work every weekends, holidays when required, and overtime when necessary

License/Certification Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check

Perks Rolled Just for You (for Benefits-Eligible Roles)

- Comprehensive Health Coverage - Medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans available for employees and their dependents.

- Mental Health & Wellness Support - Access to the AI-powered Sabender platform, confidential counseling and life coaching through PAS, nutrition coaching, and discounts at Husk Fitness.

- Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) - Generous PTO to support work-life balance (availability may vary by state-ask your recruiter for details).

- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support for mental health, financial planning, legal matters, and more.

- Paid Parental Leave - Dedicated time to rest, recharge, and care for your growing family.

- 401(k) with Company Match - Save for the future with a 4% company match and immediate vesting.

- Pet Insurance - Affordable coverage options to keep your pets healthy.

- Employee Discounts - Exclusive savings at any of TerrAscend’s 39+ dispensary locations.

- Recognition Program - Earn points through peer-to-peer recognition and redeem for Amazon rewards or gift cards.

- Disability & Life Insurance - Company-paid protection for life’s unexpected moments.

This position requires working in an environment that has a high amount of plant matter and pollen. Areas of the facility reach high/low temperatures with high humidity levels. Employees may have exposure to conditions such as dust, plant matter, and particles that affect the respiratory system, eyes, or skin, depending on department job assignments. Employees are required to wear protective gear and have the option to wear eye and ear protection. Certain areas of the facility use harsh chemicals for cleaning such as bleach and can have repetitive movements. Employees should be comfortable and capable of working under all of the above conditions.

Physical Requirements:

- Able to push, pull, lift, or move a minimum of 50lbs

- Capable of sitting, standing kneeling, bending, squatting, and/or walking for extended periods of time

- Capable of using hands and fingers to touch, handle, feel and pick

- Ability to work with hazardous chemicals (butane, propane, etc.) following strict safety guidelines

- Utilize chemicals (such as bleach) to clean and maintain facility/equipment

- Must wear PPE (clothing protection), close-toed non-slip shoes, and optional ear/eye protection

As a condition of employment, a complete background investigation will be conducted based on the rules of the specific State in which the employee is hired. Typically, the state investigative process includes a state and federal background check.

EEO Statement

At TerrAscend, employees and applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications, skills, and ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. TerrAscend is committed to assuring equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants.

TerrAscend is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, gender, pregnancy or related medical conditions, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, to include gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and gender identity, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws. Our commitment to equal opportunity employment applies to all persons involved in our operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee, including supervisors and coworkers.

Disclaimer

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. The list of job responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, and the like is not exhaustive, rather it is illustrative of the current essential functions required for the position.

This organization participates in E-Verify.

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. E-Verify Works for Everyone For more information on E-Verify, or if you think your employer has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact DHS.

Statement on External Recruiting Agencies

TerrAscend and all affiliates do not accept blind resume submissions from external recruiting agencies. No fee will be paid to agencies who submit candidates without being under contract for an active search with TerrAscend.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

If you're passionate about plant medicine and excited by our mission, we'd love to hear your perspective on how we can best meet your needs.