Program Manager - Nursery Program Manager

Program Manager - Nursery

Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's mission is to help ensure that Montana's land and water resources provide benefits for present and future generations. The DNRC empowers employees to exercise professional judgment in carrying out their duties. Employees are provided with the training and tools necessary to achieve the mission. Both team effort and individual employee expertise are supported and sustained. Core Values : The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's Forestry and Trust Land Division recognizes that building a collaborative, professional, and inclusive work environment is critical to fulfilling our mission of managing, protecting, and promoting stewardship of Montana's forests and lands for the benefit of current and future generations and our trust beneficiaries. We hold ourselves to these high standards as we are accountable to the people of Montana. We value and respect each other. We create collaborative work environments. We build and maintain strong relationships. We practice accountability. We celebrate our successes and take pride in our work.

Job Overview : This position is responsible for directing, developing, implementing, and monitoring the DNRC Conservation Seedling Nursery Program, and managing all aspects of plant and seed production at the Nursery. This includes managing greenhouse seedling production, seed increase field agricultural practices, business and fiscal operations, external partnerships and development, and personnel and staff management. The position reports to the Forestry Assistance Bureau Chief and directly or indirectly manages Nursery personnel involved with the production and sales of products. Success in the position requires delivery of reforestation and conservation planting related goals of the Montana Forest Action Plan and other partner and agency conservation priorities. Success requires implementing Nursery specific strategic goals to improve efficiency, sustainability and profitability of the Nursery operation. The Nursery operates as a state proprietary enterprise fund. It does not receive annual funding from the state general fund or legislative appropriations. Budgeting and accounting at the nursery are like that of a private sector business. Sale of Nursery products is the Nursery's primary funding source.

Essential Functions (Major Duties or Responsibilities) : Responsible for the nursery's long-term success through strategic planning, business planning and establishing a positive workplace culture. Review nursery practices and performance to make recommendations for future sustainable business development. Develop opportunities, partnerships and relationships to diversify nursery funding, increase sales, advance conservation and increase utility to the citizens of Montana. Develops cost-effective strategies for accomplishing Department goals to meet the growing demand for conservation seedlings in Montana and the intermountain west. This position manages Nursery program budgets, policies, and equipment to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations, compliance with statutory responsibilities and related laws, sale of nursery products covers all nursery expenses. Manages the development and maintenance of the Nursery infrastructure, including buildings, vehicle fleet, roads, grounds and agricultural resources, and equipment to ensure safe, efficient and continuous production operations. Plans and implements seedling and seed production at the Montana Conservation Seedling Nursery to meet goals and objectives of the Nursery and the Division. Success in the position requires developing and implementing annual production plans; directing the ongoing administration of Nursery production; continuously evaluating and enhancing products, and services; and serving as the Department's technical expert on Nursery production operations. This position serves as the lead for Nursery operations. Supervisory responsibility includes direct and indirect management of Nursery personnel in accordance with Department and state procedures and policies. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring Nursery personnel are properly supervised and trained to work safely, and efficiently to produce and sell quality agricultural products.

Application Materials Required For This Position Are : Online State of Montana application Resume Cover Letter Helpful Hint : You must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploading correctly to the specific application. Benefits : Paid Vacation, Sick Leave and Holidays Health, Dental, Prescription, and Vision Coverage Retirement Plans Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF. Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify! If you are interested in a complete job description, please contact HR at Stacey.Gabrio@mt.gov.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands : Work is performed indoors and outdoors at an agricultural production facility, greenhouse facilities, and a professional office environment. The ability to perform strenuous activity in all weather conditions is required. The incumbent must be able to lift heavy loads up to 65 pounds, bend, and maneuver self and supplies in close quarters and move between the central Nursery and various outbuildings throughout the course of normal work. The position will require work in early mornings or late evenings and weekends depending on weather and greenhouse conditions. Some travel, including overnight, will be required.

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience) : Bachelor's degree or equivalent in agriculture, forestry, natural resources, or business management required plus a minimum of 5 years managing 5 people or more in a professional or business setting and work related experience. Experience in nursery business, management and operations preferred. Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States. A valid driver's license is required with less than 12 conviction points in the most recent, completed 36 months.