The Ohio Greenhouse Company, a high tech fresh produce greenhouse in Wapakoneta, Ohio, and a member of the Mastronardi Group of Companies, is currently seeking a IPM Scout to join our team. In this role you will be responsible for working hands on, monitoring the crop, implementing and carry out instructions from the grower. This involves all aspects of the crop growing, crop maintenance/spraying, including IPM.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Daily monitoring and scouting of pest and disease in the Greenhouse.
- Be able to do an early detection and identification of pests and diseases.
- Maintain insect traps in designated areas of the greenhouse and do weekly trap counts of insects.
- Proper management and distribution of bios (live insects or mites) according with instructions of the leadership team.
- Follow IPM protocols of pest and disease management.
- Compiling IPM and conventional reports for management review.
- Monitoring pollination levels and weekly beehive introductions.
- Verification of pest and disease infestation trend.
- Support other departments as needed.
- Variety recording and verification of data.
- Ensure cleanliness, adherence to all food safety policies and procedures and organization within the greenhouse.
Education/Background Requirements:
- Previous experience in greenhouse or produce environment preferred.
Specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
- Be willing to learn. Training will be provided on pests and disease identification.
- Basic knowledge on insects, and pests is beneficial.
- Pest & disease identification skills.
- Good verbal and written communication. Spanish is an asset.
- Must be reliable, flexible, and respectful of others
- Must be team player.
Working Conditions:
- Greenhouse environment where the temperature may reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit and background noise approaches 70 dcbs.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to withstand periods of high heat and humidity
- Ability to work extra hours as needed to complete the scout and bio program of the week. 6 days per week in busy season including weekends and a couple of the weeknights for evening sprays.
We are pleased to offer the following Benefits:
- Paid weekly
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance
- Employee Engagement & Recognition Programs
- Opportunities for growth and advancement