Propagation Machine Operator

Propagation Machine Operator Job Description
Job Title: Propagation Machine Operator
Reports To: Propagation Manager
Position Status: Full Time
Compensation: Hourly, Non-Exempt
General Job Description:
The Propagation Machine Operator runs the Ellepot and TTA Machines in order to meet the propagation production goals. This hybridized position will also assist other Propagation departments. Including but not limited to cutting retrieval and preparation and clump digging and division.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Ability to communicate and work with multiple department staff, leads, and managers.
Sets up machine and operates according to manufacturer recommended instructions
Performs machine changeovers with limited assistance
Troubleshoots issues and dials in the machine for accuracy
Performs basic maintenance on the Ellepot and TTA Machines
Performs quality control on produced plugs
Operates forklifts and off road vehicles to transport product, materials and waste across the property
Utilizes pallet jacks and other hand tools to move large loads
Follows reporting and recordkeeping procedures, and reports problems to the Propagation Manager
Complies with all safety and health regulations
Cleans machinery and maintains cleanliness in the work area.
Keeping a clear itemized list of Ellopot and TTA equipment and reporting in advance when replacements are needed prior to running out.
Assisting in pruning and retrieving materials for propagation (Grass clumps, shrubs/vines, succulents,perennials etc)
Reporting pest or disease issues found on stock material to the Propagation Manager.
Retrieving/refilling Soil carts
Routinely assisting with dump runs for the Washington departments
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Production expectations to be maintained within propagation
Receiving and collection of material should only take a duration of 1-4 hours (depending on production load and type of material being produced.)
Calculating cuttings per container - 1-10 minutes per variety
Pruning of material approximately 1-3 hours depending on production quantity and weather conditions
Receiving vendor material can take a duration of 15 minutes if 1-5 varieties. 1-3 hours for 1-5 boxes, or 4-7 hours if 5+boxes
Production expectations to be maintained within propagation
when assisting in sticking or TTA
Sowing by hand 15-20 trays of 128/72 per employee per hour
Sticking tissue culture 45-90 trays of 72 per house, 25-50 trays of 128 per hour
4000-8000 cuttings per 8 hour shift, or 500-1000 URC per hour
Production expectations when assisting in Growing or Phase II departments
Grading cuttings from calluses or semi rooted material 720-1000 plugs per hour
Weeding and consolidation
Light weeding: 30-40 trays per hours
Standard consolidation/weeding: 20-30 trays per hour
Heavy weeding/consolidation: 15-20 trays per hour
Pruning liners:
-Mechanical pruning (hedger, weed wacker with hedger attachment, Agronomic pruning machine):19200+ units per 8 hour shift
-Hand pruning expectation: 5600-7200 units per 8 hours
Training and Testing
Must be willing to receive training in regards to practices and critical thinking needs for position.
Pass (in class and hands on) modules 1-7, 9. With a minimum score of 60%+ on each module
Willing to take extra training in areas that pertains but doesn’t directly correspond with role
Skills and Abilities:
High level of organizational ability, time management and task prioritization
Needs to be able to perform mathematical calculations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) in different units of measurement.
Able to perform under stress while exercising sound judgment
This role also requires a high level of attention to detail to identify precise measurements and adjustments.
Able to collaborate and communicate effectively with other professionals in a diverse team setting
Physical and Environmental Requirements
Must be able to work long shifts with very little sitting while in a stationary position.
Must be able to bend and lift, using both arms repeatedly.
Must be able to lift 75lbs (some ellopot heads weigh approximately 90+lbs and in cases of needing a size change. should involve two people to change).
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

Employment type
Full-Time

Work arrangement
No