Pollination Crew Member - Johnny's Selected Seeds

Johnny's Selected Seeds was established in 1973 by our Founder and Chairman, Rob Johnston, Jr. Today we are 100% Employee Owned. Johnny's mission is Helping families, friends, and communities to feed one another by providing superior seeds, tools, information, and service.

Johnny's is renowned for our exceptional customer service offering seeds, tools, supplies and information to direct-market growers and avid home gardeners. We source, breed, trial, and sell outstanding selected varieties of vegetables, cut flowers, herbs, and farm seed, as well as thoughtfully designed tools and equipment. We take pride in the wealth of information and depth of experience we offer our customer base, nationwide and globally.

We are a strong, stable company focused on growth while still maintaining our small company feel and staying true to our roots. Beautiful Central Maine, where our research farm, warehouse, and offices are located, is the perfect launching point for an active, four season life style. Geographically situated halfway between Maine's mountains and its 4500-mile-long coastline, we're a short drive away from resorts, parks, and harbors renowned for a rich diversity of recreational and cultural opportunities.

If you are passionate about good, healthy food and would choose to work for a company with fellow co-owners who are passionate about our mission and values, Johnny's may be the place for you!

Pollination Crew Member

Position Summary

The pollination crew members work with the Squash & Pumpkin Breeding Team to accomplish peak field season tasks for our 6-acre winter squash, summer squash, and pumpkin breeding nursery. These tasks include hand pollinating, weeding, mulching, and performing other crop care as needed.

This position is full-time and temporary. This position is based at the Albion research farm and is part of the Breeding Department. The regular workday begins at 7:00 am and can last up to 8+ hours, depending on weather and given workload. Work weeks can vary but typically average 40 hours/5 days per week. This position starts June 24th and ends August 15th. The Pollination Crew works over the weekend, however, there is some potential for a flexible work schedule.

Responsibilities

• Hand pollinating pumpkin and squash plants. This is a highly detailed task that requires focus and dexterity, but training will be provided. No prior experience is required.
• Vine training squash and pumpkin plants.
• Crop care including weeding and mulching with straw or hay
• Other work assigned by Plant Breeding Technicians.

Education

• All levels of education are welcome to apply.

Qualifications & Skills

• Agricultural or gardening experience is preferred but not required; training will be provided.
• Positive attitude.
• Works well with others as well as independently.
• Punctual and dependable.
• Detail-oriented and observant.
• Ability to pair speed with accuracy.
• Legible handwriting is a must.
• Available to work weekend hours.
• Reliable transportation to drive to nearby fields (mileage is reimbursed)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to write accurately and legibly.
• Ability to bend, pull, and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to walk on uneven ground and repeatedly bend and crouch.
• Capable of physically working outdoors, in occasional rain and heat.
• Ability to work around honeybees and with straw mulch.
• Excellent manual dexterity.

Johnny's Selected Seeds is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability or handicap, or veteran status.