Seed Processing Specialist

PRT; Verbena (AL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

PRT in West Verbena, Alabama, seeks a Seed (Processing) Specialist to join our seed processing facility. You will operate and maintain seed processing systems, perform routine maintenance, and help ensure high-quality, genetically improved Southern Pine seed.

The role blends hands-on production with mechanical troubleshooting in a collaborative team setting. The position requires a relevant degree or diploma and strong mechanical skills, with a willingness to work full-time including weekends

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in horticulture, agriculture, or forestry or equivalent experience.
• Strong verbal and written communication across operations.
• Excellent mechanical skills with diagnosing and repairing minor breakdowns.
• Proficiency with digital tools including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Epicor.
• Strong time management, ability to multitask and adapt in a dynamic work environment.
• Reliability, ability to work independently or in a team, and flexibility to work full‑time including peak seasons.

Responsibilities

• Seed Processing Operations: support seed cleaning, drying, sizing and preventive care.
• Equipment Handling: safely operate tractors, forklifts, boom lifts, UTVs and power tools.
• Team Collaboration: work with internal teams and external partners to meet goals.
• Recordkeeping & Tracking: maintain records and monitor progress against targets.
• Continuous Improvement: contribute ideas to improve safety and efficiency.
• Communication & Culture: foster honest, respectful teamwork.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Mechanical skills

Time management

Teamwork

Independent work

Equipment operation

Education

Bachelor's degree or diploma in horticulture/agriculture/forestry

Tools

Excel

Word

Outlook

Epicor

Job description

Company Description

WHO WE ARE:

From a humble beginning in 1988 with six nurseries, PRT has grown into North America's largest grower of forest seedlings, having grown over 6 billion trees. With 27 Nurseries & 14 Seed Orchards across the US and Canada, we annually cultivate over 630 million high-quality seedlings, playing a vital role in reforestation and sustainable forestry. We're driven by a passion for environmental stewardship and a commitment to nurturing relationships, driving excellence, and fostering a people‑first mindset, all to make a difference for a greener future.

Here's what you can expect when you join PRT

• Competitive Compensation & Financial Growth: Earn a competitive annual salary with opportunities to build your financial future with our matching RSP.
• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Take care of yourself and your family with our extended health, vision, and dental coverage, along with paid vacation and holidays.
• Career Development & Learning: Grow your skills and advance your career with personalized guidance and a learning‑focused culture that prioritizes continuous development.
• Stable, Inclusive & Collaborative Environment: Join a year‑round stable company where your voice matters in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Make a Difference for the Planet: Contribute to environmental sustainability and a passion for nature solutions

Job Description

Seed (Processing) Specialist

We are currently seeking to fill an existing vacancy on our team.

Join PRT as a Seed (Processing) Specialist in West Verbena, Alabama, where you'll be actively shaping the landscape of tomorrow by effectively participating in our new cutting‑edge seed processing facility. In this vital role, you will be at the forefront of sustainable forestry, producing top‑quality, genetically improved Southern Pine seed. This is a unique, hands‑on position perfect for someone who loves both technical production and machinery; you will safely operate advanced seed processing systems while leading the routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the facility's equipment. If you are looking to combine a passion for forestry with strong mechanical skills, we want you on our team.

What will YOU be doing as a Seed (Processing) Specialist?

As a Seed (Processing) Specialist, you’ll contribute directly to the future of our forests through hands‑on work in pine cone – seed processing, seed production, and team collaboration. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Seed Processing Operations: Support facility in all aspects of the seed cleaning, drying, sizing process and routine preventive care and maintenance of buildings and machines.
• Equipment Handling: Safely operate a range of equipment including tractors, forklifts, boom lifts, UTVs, and power tools.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams and external partners to achieve production and research goals efficiently and safely.
• Recordkeeping & Tracking: Maintain accurate records of seed processing activities and track progress against key production and timeline targets.
• Continuous Improvement: Contribute ideas and embrace innovation to help improve safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness.
• Communication & Culture: Foster strong working relationships by communicating with honesty, respect, and a spirit of teamwork.

Qualifications

What YOU bring to the table

You’re a dynamic and driven professional who brings technical skill, field experience, mechanical inclination and a collaborative mindset to support and strengthen our seed orchard operations.

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in horticulture, agriculture, or forestry, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills that ensures clarity and alignment across all aspects of operations.
• Excellent mechanical skills along with experience diagnosing and repairing minor mechanical breakdowns effectively.
• Proficiency with digital tools including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Epicor.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt in a dynamic work environment.
• Confidence working independently or as part of a team environment.
• Practical skills in operating and maintaining equipment, including seed processing equipment, forklifts, tractors, UTVs, and tools for safe use.
• Reliability and flexibility, with a willingness to work full‑time—including weekdays and weekends during peak seasons.

We embrace openness and diversity of thought for innovation and growth. We seek different perspectives to challenge conventional approaches and continuously improve our company’s performance and progress. We believe that openness and diversity of thought help us drive innovation, make better decisions, achieve effective stewardship of our business and enable our people to thrive.

We encourage you to connect with us at [e-mail] for more information about our accessible workplace, including disability accommodation for the recruitment process and beyond.