Pollination Crew Member

Johnny's Selected Seeds; August (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Pollination Crew member, where you will work closely with the Squash & Pumpkin Breeding Team during the peak field season. This full-time, temporary role offers hands-on experience in hand pollination, crop care, and vine training. You'll be part of a dedicated team at a research farm, contributing to the cultivation of winter and summer squash and pumpkins. Enjoy a flexible work schedule while developing your skills in a supportive environment. If you have a keen eye for detail and a passion for agriculture, this position is perfect for you!

Qualifications

• Agricultural or gardening experience preferred; training provided.
• Detail-oriented, punctual, and dependable.

Responsibilities

• Hand pollinating pumpkin and squash plants with focus and dexterity.
• Weeding and mulching with straw or hay as part of crop care.
• Vine training for squash and pumpkin plants.

Skills

Agricultural experience

Gardening experience

Detail-oriented

Reliable transportation

Legible handwriting

Education

All levels of education

Job description

The pollination crew members work with the Squash & Pumpkin Breeding Team to accomplish peak field season tasks for our 6-acre winter squash, summer squash, and pumpkin breeding nursery. These tasks include hand pollinating, weeding, mulching, and performing other crop care as needed.

This position is full-time and temporary. This position is based on the Albion research farm and is part of the Breeding Department. The regular workday begins at 7:00 am and can last up to 8+ hours, depending on weather and given workload. Work weeks can vary but typically average 40 hours/5 days per week. This position starts on June 23rd and usually ends in early/mid-August. The Pollination Crew works over the weekend, however, there is some potential for a flexible work schedule.

Responsibilities

• Hand pollinating pumpkin and squash plants. This is a highly detailed task that requires focus and dexterity, but training will be provided. No prior experience is required.
• Vine training squash and pumpkin plants.
• Crop care includes weeding and mulching with straw or hay
• Other work assigned by Plant Breeding Technicians.

Education

• All levels of education are welcome to apply.

Qualifications & Skills

• Agricultural or gardening experience is preferred but not required; training will be provided.
• Works well with others as well as independently.
• Punctual and dependable.
• Detail-oriented and observant.
• Ability to pair speed with accuracy.
• Legible handwriting is a must.
• Reliable transportation to drive to nearby fields (mileage is reimbursed)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to write accurately and legibly.
• Ability to bend, pull, and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to walk on uneven ground and repeatedly bend and crouch.
• Capable of physically working outdoors, in occasional rain and heat.
• Ability to work around honeybees and with straw mulch.

Johnny’s Selected Seeds is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability or handicap, or veteran status.

Our mission is helping families, friends, and communities to feed one another by providing superior seeds, tools, information, and service.

Note: Accepting applications only for positions posted.