Horticulturist I

Description

Position: Horticulturist I

Department/Location: Aurora Production Facility

Reports To: Assistant General Manager - Plant Science and Horticulture

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

COMPANY:

Headquartered in Orlando, FL, Kalera is a science and technology-driven company dedicated to growing the very best possible produce; it is smart horticulture at its best. As the technology leaders in urban vertical farming, Kalera focuses on clean, safe, healthy, tasty greens and on the efficiencies of growing locally in controlled environments.

Founded in 2010, Kalera has, over several years, perfected unique hydroponic growing methods combining optimized nutrients and light recipes, precise environmental controls, and clean room standards to produce safe, highly nutritious, pesticide-free, non-GMO vegetables with consistent high quality and longer shelf life year-round. With indoor facilities situated right where the demand is, Kalera is able to supply an abundance of produce locally, eliminating the need for long distance shipping. This means Kalera can ensure the highest quality and freshness by delivering product to customers within hours of harvest year-round. Kalera's plants grow while consuming 95% less water compared to field farming.

Kalera has recently opened a new state-of-the-art growing facility in Orlando, FL. With an annual output of over five million heads of lettuce per year, this new facility is the highest production volume vertical farm in the Southeast US. The rapidly constructed facility also demonstrates Kalera's ability to quickly build and open farms around the US and internationally. Having recently announced new facilities in Atlanta and Houston to open in early 2021, Kalera has aggressive near-term expansion plans both domestically and internationally.

For more information please visit , along with supplemental media coverage:

• Kalera film
• Global Newswire article - Kalera opens new vertical farming facility in Orlando
• Forbes article - farm of the future
• Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue Visits Kalera

• Orlando Sentinel Article

Consider applying here, if you want to:

• Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic environment with a chance to make an impact.
• Develop lasting relationships with great people.
• Have the opportunity to build a satisfying career.

Requirements

Obtained or pursuing a bachelor's degree in Plant Science or related field (Biology, Horticulture Science, Environmental Science) or equivalent in horticulture experience preferred.

Job Description and Responsibilities

Scouting and Crop Monitoring

• Scout crops to identify incidence of insects, diseases, nutrient deficiencies, and mechanical issues.

a) Input data regarding scouting notes and crop issues.

• Complete daily inspections/checklists of growing areas and equipment.

• Collect and input crop data to monitor crop performance and quality control.

Cultivation

• Ensure the health and quality of seedlings/ transplant.

• Assist with cleaning and maintaining hydroponic systems as needed.

• Follow all safety and process procedures for chemical usage.

• Fill out necessary food safety logs that correspond to horticulture operations.

• Assist production teams as needed.