Job Summary

The Pruner is responsible for maintaining proper tree structure and managing plant growth through pruning and related maintenance activities. This role uses hand tools such as pruning saws, hooks, shears, and clippers to support healthy plant development and maintain nursery quality standards.

Pruners typically work in small teams under the direction of a Crew Leader who provides instruction and guidance based on direction from Yard Management.

Essential Functions

• Identify plant varieties and understand general plant growth characteristics.
• Perform pruning tasks using proper techniques as instructed by Yard Management or the Crew Leader.
• Use hand tools including hand pruners, pole pruners, extension pruners, and pruning saws.
• Identify and report plant pests, diseases, or other plant health concerns.
• Work as part of a small team (typically 2–4 employees) to complete pruning assignments.
• Perform stake repair and tying maintenance as needed to support proper plant growth.
• Safely use ladders between 8 and 14 feet when performing pruning work.
• Maintain the nursery grounds by keeping work areas clean, organized, and safe for employees, customers, and vendors.
• Handle nursery stock carefully and ensure plants are properly maintained and placed in designated areas.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist other nursery departments as needed.
• Support general nursery operations and plant care activities.
• Duties are subject to change at any time per management’s discretion.

Experience & Other Requirements

Required

• Ability to identify plant material and recognize basic plant growth patterns.
• Ability to follow pruning instructions and work safely with hand tools.
• Ability to identify plant pests and disease and report concerns to management.
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.
• Ability to safely use ladders and pruning tools.

Preferred

• Previous experience working in a nursery, landscape, or agricultural environment.
• Experience performing pruning or plant maintenance tasks.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position is performed primarily outdoors in active nursery production environments.

Work conditions include varying weather conditions, uneven ground surfaces, active equipment and vehicle traffic, and exposure to dust, plant material, and seasonal allergens. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as applicable.

Physical requirements include:

• Extensive walking throughout the nursery during the workday.
• Frequent climbing of ladders between 8–14 feet.
• Frequent bending, twisting, turning, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and reaching.
• Use of hands and fingers for operating pruning tools and handling plant material.
• Lifting up to 50 lbs independently (approximately 75% of the time).
• Participating in team lifts up to 100 lbs (approximately 25% of the time).

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.