Conservation Propagator

(Paid Opportunities) Return to Paid Opportunities

Compensation: Annual $48,000-$68,000

Mt. Cuba Center’s mission is to inspire an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants and a commitment to support the habitats that sustain them. Our team is comprised of professionals that value the importance of ecological horticulture and utilize their knowledge and skills to create healthier landscapes. We seek an experienced and passionate plant propagator to facilitate our native plant propagation program. This is a hands-on, collaborative position within our Conservation and Research Division. The Conservation Propagator works with a wide variety of native species and develops propagation protocols to share with the conservation community. The work focuses on rare and threatened species, supporting conservation projects onsite and with regional collaborators. This individual will also produce plants for our renowned Trial Garden and collections. The Conservation Propagator will begin work in our current greenhouses, but then transition to our state of the art, energy-neutral greenhouse facility once construction is completed later this year.

Position Summary

The Propagator is responsible for the propagation of all plants started at Mt. Cuba Center. This person schedules the activities necessary to process seeds, cuttings, and
divisions. The Propagator works closely with the Greenhouse & Nursery Manager to create a schedule that produces plants in a timely manner for research, display, and other mission-based needs. This person manages the
collection of all propagation data and develops protocols from the findings. The Propagator acts as a primary back-up to the Greenhouse & Nursery Manager to ensure continuity and effectiveness of operations.Rotational weekend and holiday work is required. This is a full-time, exempt, position.

The successful candidate must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. An exception to the COVID vaccine requirement may be provided to individuals for religious or medical reasons.

Mt. Cuba Center is committed to diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. This is a full-time, benefits eligible position. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and outstanding professional development opportunities.

Responsibilities/Duties

Essential Functions:

Manage Propagation Programs

Scout and collect seed, cuttings, and divisions in garden for propagation program. Oversee germination and rooting procedures to produce required propagules on schedule. Manage propagules until they are transferred to the G&N Manager
Manage the propagation areas. Procure propagation supplies. Research, trial, and implement best propagation practices, and experiment with innovative procedures
Support MCCs wild collected plant initiatives. Monitor data management of wild collected species in the greenhouse through their entire life cycle
Research, develop, and publish propagation protocols, focusing on species of concern, species with industry interest, and potential plant introductions
Collaborate on plant conservation projects with local and regional colleagues to propagate rare species and support research
Manage propagation requests and accessioning in collaboration with the Curatorial Department
Assure propagation data integrity by applying rigorous data collection protocols

Effective Greenhouse Operations Management

Act as primary back-up to the G&N Manager to support effective greenhouse operations including facilities trouble-shooting processes, cross-training in production practices, and serving as supervisor in the event of extended absences of the G&N Manager
Support plant production with regular coverage of greenhouse areas as needed
Lead, guide, and train employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work
Lead Guest and Organizational Programs related to Propagation
Provide knowledge and guidance to support guest and organizational initiatives related to propagation
Develop industry contacts and represent MCC’s propagation efforts in public forums. Work collaboratively with the conservation community to identify projects and share research findings Program & Project Administration
Lead the planning and execution of propagation initiatives in alignment with Mt. Cuba Center’s mission and goals, including effective policy and procedural development
Collaborate with the G&N Manager and Director of Conservation and Research to develop research priorities

Qualifications/Requirements

Qualifications:

Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture, botany, or a related plant science field and 5 years of propagation experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Baseline Knowledge & Skills:

Sound working knowledge of plant identification, propagation techniques, and plant growth
Familiarity with curation practices
Skill in record keeping

Abilities:

Sound working knowledge of plant identification, propagation techniques, and plant growth
Familiarity with curation practices
Skill in record keeping
Demonstrated ability in the propagation of native plants
Proficiency in researching propagation literature and applying findings
Ability to operate and maintain a wide range of tools safely and effectively
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology to complete work duties
Ability to effectively fulfill organizational roles and build meaningful partnerships
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong personal relationships and persuasively communicate with Mt. Cuba Center staff and the public
Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details and the ability to manage time and effectively function without close supervision
Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed

Physical requirements:

Requires moderate physical work; frequent/significant time spent standing; occasional time spent reaching, carrying, lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds.

The successful candidate must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. An exception to the COVID vaccine requirement may be provided to individuals for religious or
medical reasons.

Additional Information

The deadline to apply is 5/27/2022

Contact Information

Mt. Cuba Center
Contact Name: Courtney Davis
Email: cdavis@mtcubacenter.org
Phone: 302-239-8881
Website: Apply Online