MPRU Greenhouse Operation Manager
Job Description
Posting Number
PG193755EPInternal Recruitment
NoWorking Title
MPRU Greenhouse Operation ManagerAnticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with ExperienceWork Schedule
Monday - Friday / 8am - 5pmJob Location
Raleigh, NCDepartment
Entomology and Plant PathologyAbout the Department
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) houses 12 academic departments with 294 faculty, serving 2,891 undergraduate and 899 graduate students. CALS operates 18 research stations strategically located across North Carolina, which strengthen our partnerships with farmers, stakeholders, and industry. The college’s strategic plan, Growing Our Future 2023-2030, can be accessed here.
As part of the Land Grant University system, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University includes over 40 faculty members leading a diverse portfolio of teaching, research, and extension programs. These collective strengths serve not only our clientele and scientific community but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training. Our flexible curriculum supports students in pursuing careers in either basic sciences or extension services. Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands-on learning opportunities using the latest technologies.
The department is home to several key resources, including the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand Mycological Herbarium, the Micropropagation and Repository Unit, the Structural Pest Management Training Facility, an Insect Museum with 1.9 million specimens, and the Center for Integrated Fungal Research.
The Micropropagation and Repository Unit (MPRU) in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology is part of the National Clean Plant Network (NCPN). It produces, maintains, and distributes pathogen-free, asexually propagated plant material for sweetpotato, berry crops, and muscadine grapes. The MPRU’s mission is to ensure high-quality, pathogen-free planting stock that supports U.S. specialty crop producers, protecting the environment and enhancing global competitiveness.
Essential Job Duties
The Micropropagation and Repository Unit (MPRU) at NC State University is dedicated to providing certified, pathogen-tested plant material for sweetpotatoes, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and muscadine grapes. As part of the National Clean Plant Network (NCPN), we play a key role in supporting certified seed growers, nurseries, and stakeholders by delivering clean planting stock and maintaining a repository of true-to-type, virus-tested tissue culture material.
In this role, the incumbent will manage greenhouse operations for multiple projects, primarily focused on sweetpotatoes, with additional work on berries and muscadine grapes. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-impact program that supports both local and national agricultural efforts. The successful candidate will play a vital role in ensuring the health and productivity of our plants while optimizing greenhouse practices.
Key Responsibilities
Greenhouse Management
- Develop and optimize greenhouse practices to support the production of sweetpotato plants for North Carolina Sweetpotato Certified Seed Growers.
- Source, distribute, and coordinate all living plant material with stakeholders and institutions.
- Oversee peak production from November to March, with plant deliveries scheduled for mid-January.
Crop and Greenhouse Systems Expertise
- Apply your knowledge of both field and greenhouse crop production to maintain optimal growing conditions.
- Use your expertise in greenhouse technology and controlled environment systems to ensure plant health and address any greenhouse issues.
- Diagnose and communicate greenhouse-related concerns with facilities maintenance staff.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Implement a comprehensive IPM approach to maintain plant health and meet zero-tolerance inspection standards.
- Train greenhouse workers on pest control protocols and ensure that all plants pass inspection while adhering to regulatory standards.
- Stay prepared for regular visits from inspection agents who monitor plant production and pest/disease control.
Coordination with Tissue Culture Specialists
- Collaborate with tissue culture specialists to establish mother plants in the greenhouse, ensuring accuracy in labeling and propagation.
- Ensure all mother plants are set up by the August 1st deadline, coordinating efforts for seasonal plant production.
Greenhouse Operations
- Establish and maintain healthy plants by conducting tasks such as planting, maintaining, and forecasting plant development for growers.
- Improve and implement Greenhouse Best Management Practices (BMPs) to streamline operations.
- Maintain accurate records of all plant accessions, ensure proper labeling and quality control, and oversee the production of approximately 90,000 plants annually during peak season.
Additional Duties
- Perform general greenhouse maintenance, including cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, preparing potting soil, and monitoring pest populations.
- Restock supplies, schedule daily activities for greenhouse workers, and operate specialized equipment.
- Coordinate inspections with the NC Crop Improvement Association and ensure greenhouse operations meet required standards.
Data Management and Reporting
- Record and report on greenhouse management, plant health, and production using laboratory notebooks and digital databases.
- Write summary reports to document program outcomes and greenhouse performance.
Project Proposals and Field Trials
- Assist in developing project proposals, work plans, and manuscripts for greenhouse-related research.
- Prepare materials for Trueness-to-type field trials, and oversee planting, harvesting, and data collection from May to November.
Why Join Us?
At NC State’s Micropropagation and Repository Unit, you will be a part of a program that directly impacts agricultural sustainability and crop health. Your contributions will ensure the delivery of high-quality, pathogen-tested plants that support growers nationwide. Join us and be at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
Other Responsibilities
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Education and Experience
- Requires post-baccalaureate degree, or a relevant Bachelor’s degree plus three (3) or more years of independent reserach experience.
- Documented experience in greenhouse management for multiple labs or projects.
Other Required Qualifications
- Ability to work independently, travel, supervise hourly workers, and collaborate with staff, faculty and students
- Excellent oral communication skills.
- Ability to work in a team.
- Knowledge of plant production and maintenance.
- Knowledge of Greenhouse Best Management Practices.
- Knowledge of irrigation systems and maintenance.
- Knowledge of integrated pest management.
- Knowledge of greenhouse technology and controlled environment systems.
- Knowledge of plant identification.
- Ability to plan and follow planned activities independently.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office
Preferred Qualifications
- MS in Entomology, Horticultural Science, Plant Pathology, Field Biology, Plant Science,
Ecology, Biology or a related field. - Five years of relevant work experience with greenhouse management, plant production and propagation, insect/pest control, crop production under controlled environments and cultural management of crops of interest.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
- A valid drivers license is required for travel. Valid Driver’s License and ability to obtain an NC drivers license is required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained throughout employment.
- It is expected for the incumbent to have a valid NCDA pesticide license or to obtain one within 90 days of the start date.
The incumbent will need to indepdently drive departmental trucks and vehicles.
Valid NC Driver's License required
YesCommercial Driver's License required
NoJob Open Date
10/25/2024Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicant required documents: Please attach a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references.
Position Number
00111128Position Type
EHRA Non-FacultyFull Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.00Appointment
12 Month RecurringMandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse WeatherMandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Medical EmergenciesDepartment ID
111801 - Entomology and Plant PathologyAA/EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
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