Position Type: Full- time. Work hours are 40 hours per week.

Salary and benefits: Wage commensurate with experience and skills. 

Introduction:  The Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC) is a nonprofit organization, which works cooperatively with cities, property owners and environmental groups, locating funds for purchasing land, restoring native habitats, and promoting the conservation of natural open space. Our work covers the geographic Palos Verdes Peninsula. PVPLC’s mission is to preserve land and restore habitat for the enjoyment and education of all. 

Job Description:  The Native Plant Nursery and Farm Assistant will support the Native Seed Farm Manager and Nursery Technician in the oversight and management of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy’s native seed farm, nursery and production of local native seed and cactus species. This position reports to the Native Seed Farm Manager.

Responsibilities: 

• Work with Native Seed Farm Manager on day to day operations 
• Assist in plant inventory, seed processing, sowing, weeding and watering 
• Work with volunteers, PVPLC staff and partner groups to provide interpretive and educational experiences 
• Coordinate with Nursery Technician, Stewardship Manager and Native Seed Farm Manager on seed growing needs and wild collections
• Assist in the maintenance of native seed farm, all assigned planting beds, seed starting, maintain seedlings, pest and disease problems, fertilization and soil amending, seed harvesting, irrigation repair, etc.
• Use of farm equipment and tools to sow, harvest, process and store seed
• Conduct other tasks in coordination with Native Seed Farm Manager.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelors in botany, ecology, horticulture, agronomy, related science, or equivalent work experience
• Knowledge of Southern California coastal sage scrub and native grassland ecosystems; 
• Knowledge in the propagation of and maintenance of California native plants, genetics, seed banks, and seed bulking
• Knowledge of seed treatment techniques, plant pathogens and best management practices. 
• Ability to work outside, perform physical labor for periods of time, and walk up to several miles per day over rough terrain in year round conditions. 
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, skill managing multiple tasks to meet project objectives with the capacity to deal with technical and logistical challenges 
• Great writing and speaking skills 
• Willingness and ability to travel, as required. Must possess reliable transportation for visiting properties throughout PVPLC’s service area. 

Desired Skills: 

• Experience with Microsoft Office and Google Applications, GIS and genetic tracking software
• CA Native plant and non-native identification. 
• QAL License or understanding of pest control