This individual will be responsible to ensure we maintain pests and diseases below economic impact in our crops. Ensure the highest standard of grading quality in the most efficient way possible, while adhering to Orangeline Farms Limited food safety standards and industry best practices for our employees’ health and safety.
In addition to the tasks highlighted below, there is an expectation that a Bio Scout will exhibit effective communication and organizational skills.
· Ability to identify insect pests and damage symptoms present in greenhouse crops
· Ability to identify diseases and affected plant symptoms present in greenhouse crops
· Assisting in the development and implementation of an IPM and disease prevention program
· Monitoring ongoing pest and disease problems and areas where pest and disease problems traditionally appear
· Weekly scouting of the entire growing area and accurate recording of data on maps that can easily be communicated and presented to others (i.e., Grower, Assistant Grower(s), Outside Bio-Representatives, Crop consultant, etc.….)
· Changing monitoring cards when necessary
· Monitoring light traps and burners as necessary
· Applying chemical treatments as necessary (upon successful completion of the Greenhouse Pesticide Safety course)
· Ensuring all staff is trained in basic pest identification and that they properly inform all pest sightings
· Facilitating communication about pest management among management personnel at the farm
· Recording all pesticide use and other pest management actions as well for the record of food safety programs
· Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of the pest management procedures
· Ensuring the completion of work orders for structural repairs and housekeeping and sanitation measures intended to reduce or prevent pest problems
· Coordinating the collection and dissemination of current information on pest management pesticides
· Maintaining Banker plants system
- · Other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
· Light, temperature, humidity, and their effect on crop production
· Irrigation and fertility management
· Pest and disease management
· Soil management
· Environment control
· Basic math skills and understanding of how to calculate bio and chemical needs
· Good problem-solving skills
· Self-motivated, enthusiastic, and creative
· Ability to walk all day
· Tolerance to the hot and humid conditions of a vegetable greenhouse
· Regular use of “scissor carts” and elevated working heights
· Clear, concise handwriting, communication, and good rapport with third party suppliers
· Thorough and precise attention to detail
· Must be able to bend, climb, stand, sit, walk, and kneel for prolonged periods of time
· Forklift certification if deemed essential
· Pesticide license if deemed essential
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.50-$20.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
