Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Team Member: Tier 1 Job Description

Job Title: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Team Member: Tier 1

Reports To: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Lead

Position Status: Full Time 

Compensation: $17.91 - 20 (DOE)

General Job Description:  

Walla Walla Nursery is a wholesale ornamental plant nursery offering a wide range of plant material. The IPM Team Member – Tier 1 is an entry-level position within the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. This role focuses on learning and supporting pest, disease, weed, and plant growth regulator (PGR) applications while following strict safety and regulatory standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Actively scout plant material for common insects, diseases, weeds, and general plant health issues.
• Report pest, disease, and weed observations to IPM leadership and growers.
• Assist in maintaining a Weed Free Nursery status through proper use of pre- and post-emergent products.

• Assist with application of pesticides, including systemic and contact products.
• Assist with fungicide and fertilizer applications.
• Assist with application of Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) under direction and supervision.
• Operate sprayers, spreaders, and other application equipment to treat specific pests and plant health issues.

• Follow all safety procedures and regulatory requirements related to chemical handling and application.
• Assist in maintaining proper chemical storage and mixing areas in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Demonstrate proper mixing techniques for plant protection and fertilizer products.
• Learn and apply correct spray techniques to ensure proper coverage and minimize off-target movement.
• Clean and maintain spray equipment, including:
  • Spray tanks
  • Backpack sprayers
  • Granular applicators

• Learn nursery layout and field locations to navigate efficiently during daily assignments.
• Demonstrate basic identification of common pests and fungal issues affecting nursery crops.
• Follow written instructions, labels, and supervisor direction accurately.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities

• Willingness to learn IPM principles and safe chemical application practices.
• Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
• Basic attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to communicate observations and ask questions when clarification is needed.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required but not limited to the following repetitive motions;

• Must be able to perform duties while wearing proper PPE as required (i.e. respirators, goggles,coveralls, gloves)

• Ability to work long shifts with very little sitting.
• Must be able to work in a standing position for 95% of a daily shift.  
• Must be able to bend and lift, using both arms repeatedly. 
• Must be able to grip, pinch and carry
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Must be able to push/pull up to 800lb. wheeled racks
• Must be able to perform tasks with arms raised above shoulder level.
• Must be able to perform tasks on low ladders. 
• Must be able to work in adverse and uncomfortable weather and temperatures. This includes temperatures below freezing and temperatures above 100*F. 
• Must be able to walk across uneven terrain
• In possession of a valid Driver's License

Direct Reports: 

This position has no direct reports

Training Time:

1 season

3-5 month Probationary Period (based on time of season)

Professional Mindset:

• Develops a working knowledge and awareness of LEAN principles and actively participates in building a culture of continuous improvement. Strives to ensure workflow processes and stations are set up to minimize waste, improve working conditions and safety, and maximize productivity and value to the customer.
• Demonstrates commitment to learning and upholding company policies including safety and quality standards, and the mission, vision, principles and ethics of WWNC.
• Develops a strong understanding of industry and WWNC quality standards and consistently delivers work that meets or exceeds those standards by following procedures, checking work for accuracy, and promptly addressing defects or issues.
• Takes initiative for personal growth by actively “learning the business”, seeking feedback from peers and supervisors, and engaging in relevant educational, training or professional development opportunities.

Employee Benefits:

• 
  
  • Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance
  • 401 (k)
  • Paid time off
  • Employee discount
  • Aflac & LifeFlight options