IPM Tech

Smith Gardens, Inc.; Aurora (CO); On-site; USD 23,419 - 25,485; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Immediate PTO accrual

Medical, Dental, and Vision after 30 days

Matching 401(k)

Company-Paid LTD after one year

Job summary

A leading horticultural company in Aurora, CO is seeking an IPM Technician responsible for pest monitoring, prevention, and control. The role includes conducting daily scouting, applying pesticides, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Candidates should have knowledge of Integrated Pest Management principles and preferably possess a State Pesticide Applicator License. The position offers competitive hourly pay and benefits including PTO, medical, and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of pest and disease identification.
• Experience with greenhouse or agricultural environments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct pest and disease scouting.
• Identify and record pest populations.
• Apply pesticides safely and effectively.

Skills

Observation skills

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of IPM principles

Attention to detail

Self-motivated

Time management

Effective communication

Basic math skills

Bilingual in Spanish

Education

State Pesticide Applicator License

1-3 years of agricultural experience

Basic computer skills

Job description

The Aurora site opened in 1997, and is located just 30 minutes south of Portland, Oregon in the beautiful Willamette Valley. The site has 37 acres of greenhouse and 3 acres of field space. In 2013, we added a 3-acre State-of-the-art glass greenhouse which has allowed the facility to repurpose 40,000 gallons of water every day helping to reduce our carbon footprint.

The IPM Technician is responsible for monitoring, preventing, and controlling insect pests and plant diseases. This role assists in scouting, data collection, reporting pest pressure, releasing beneficial organism, and performing chemical applications while ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conduct daily or routine pest and disease scouting throughout the facility.
• Accurately identify insects, mites, diseases, and beneficial organisms.
• Record and maintain detailed scouting reports and pest population data.
• Release and monitor biological control agents as part of IPM strategy.
• Mix, calibrate, and maintain spray equipment properly.
• Monitor environmental conditions that affect pest pressure (humidity, temperature, airflow).
• Support trial activities and ensure proper documentation under the guidance of the IPM Supervisor.
• Apply pesticides, and other crop protection products as directed and in compliance with all safety regulations.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and company safety policies.
• Maintain proper documentation for chemical use.
• Provides support for other departments as needed.

COMPETENCIES

• Strong observation and problem- solving skills.
• Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles.
• Ability to accurately identify pests, diseases, and beneficial organisms.
• Attention to detail and strong record keeping skills.
• Self-motivated, flexible, and able to work independently.
• Time management and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and in writing.
• Basic math skills for accurate mixing, measuring, and data recording.
• Safety conscious mindset, including proper use of PPE.
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred but not required.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• State Pesticide Applicator License (preferred or ability to obtain within a set timeframe)
• 1-3 years of greenhouse or agricultural experience.
• Basic computer or tablet skills for data entry and reporting.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work in greenhouse and nursery environments with varying temperatures, humidity levels, and weather conditions.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials or trays weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Flexibility to work weekends, including Sundays, holidays, or extended hours during peak production periods, as needed.
• Able to wear respirator for extended periods.

PAY RATE

• $17-$18.50 Per Hour
• $24-$26

BENEFITS STATEMENT

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package including immediate PTO accrual, Medical, Dental and Vision after 30 days, plus matching 401(k) and Company-Paid LTD after one year.

Smith Gardens is in the Top 10 Privately Owned Companies in Whatcom County. Our business is growing, so you can find career opportunities that match your goals and fuel your passion. Plus, we promote from within every chance we get!

Smith Gardens is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion,transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicants may request accommodations needed to participate in the application process. To make this request please email [e-mail]