Description:
The Plant Production & Facilities Technician supports greenhouse, field, and facility operations to ensure the successful production of high-quality plant material for breeding, research, trials, marketing, and commercial programs. This role combines hands-on horticultural production, greenhouse and field support, pest management, facility maintenance, and operational support to maintain safe, efficient, and productive growing environments.
The successful candidate will work closely with growers, breeders, researchers, and facility teams to execute growing programs, maintain facilities and equipment, support trials and production activities, and contribute to the overall success of horticultural operations.
Job Responsibilities and Duties:
Facility and Equipment Support
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Perform routine facility maintenance inspections and repairs, including plumbing, irrigation, carpentry, painting, fabrication, and general upkeep.
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Conduct preventative maintenance and assist with repairs of greenhouse systems, irrigation, climate equipment, and facility infrastructure.
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Troubleshoot basic mechanical, irrigation, and facility-related issues.
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Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment through daily sanitation and housekeeping.
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Assist with movement and setup of equipment, materials, furniture, displays, and greenhouse infrastructure.
Greenhouse and Plant Production
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Perform core production tasks including planting, transplanting, propagation, pruning, harvesting, and crop movement.
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Prepare growing materials such as media, pots, trays, and labels.
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Support irrigation, fertility management, and greenhouse environmental monitoring.
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Scout crops for pests, disease, and nutrient issues and report findings.
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Support IPM activities, biological controls, and pesticide applications as directed.
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Maintain accurate production records, including crop data, inventory, and measurements.
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Support breeding, research, and trial programs through plant maintenance.
Field and Grounds Operations
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Support field preparation, planting, irrigation setup, fertilization, spraying, weed control, and harvesting.
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Operate and maintain field equipment such as tractors, mowers, forklifts, sprayers, and skid steers.
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Maintain grounds through mowing, trimming, landscaping, and general site upkeep.
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Assist with seasonal projects, events, and operational support activities.
Team and Operational Support
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Participate in weekend watering and greenhouse monitoring schedules.
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Support seasonal employees and small project teams as needed.
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Communicate updates and issues to supervisors and team members.
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Collaborate with growers, breeders, researchers, and facility teams.
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Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, safety, and crop quality.
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Perform additional duties as assigned.
Requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED required.
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Minimum of 1–3 years of experience in facilities, greenhouse, or equipment maintenance (e.g., irrigation systems, environmental controls, mechanical systems) within horticulture, agriculture, or a related environment.
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Ability to obtain and maintain an Illinois Pesticide License or Handler Permit within six months of hire.
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Ability to safely operate forklifts, skid steers, tractors, sprayers, and related equipment or willingness to become certified.
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Basic mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn equipment maintenance and facility repair tasks.
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Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
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Willingness to work in varying weather conditions and greenhouse environments throughout the year.
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Valid driver's license required.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and reach for up to 100% of the workday.
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Ability to use hands and fingers for repetitive tasks for up to 100% of the workday.
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Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for up to 25% of the workday.
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Ability to push and pull carts, equipment, and plant materials for up to 25% of the workday.
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Ability to work in greenhouse, field, warehouse, and outdoor environments with varying temperatures and weather conditions.
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Ability to safely operate machinery, tools, and motorized equipment.
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Ability to participate in weekend watering rotations and seasonal peak workloads as needed.
Hourly Pay Range: $20-$23
Our promise to you
Ball is a global leader in horticulture: we develop, produce, and sell plants around the world. Our vision is to color the world through our customers. We create excitement in the world of flowers and are the first choice for service. We deliver all the best and nothing else! To you, we deliver a work environment and a culture where building long-lasting relationships internally and externally is important. We believe that good communication, sharing ideas and collaborating on projects will set us up for success. We keep both our feet on the ground and are approachable.
In addition to this we provide a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes:
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Medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance
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401k/Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
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Paid time off benefits including vacation and holidays
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Tuition assistance
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Employee Assistance Program and Positive Health programs
