Position Summary

The Northeast Seed Network is a new initiative by Native Plant Trust and partners to increase the availability of locally adapted seed from sustainably managed sources. The goal is to develop a network of growers interested in producing seed for use in restoration projects and by nurseries to grow plants for sale. The Northeast Seed Network aims to establish regional standards and protocols along with best practices for seed increase, collection, and storage. Native Plant Trust will manage the network and serve as the regional seed bank.

The seed collection coordinator will manage wild seed collections for habitat restoration projects in collaboration with partners such as US Fish & Wildlife Service. The seed collection coordinator will be responsible for planning and implementing visits to scout for and collect seed and for adherence to protocols for sustainability in collecting. The coordinator will supervise a team of four seasonal (6-month) positions.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the wild seed collection of plant species native to the region
• Ensure consistent standards and protocols for seed collection, handling, and distribution
• Manage four seasonal staff, including weekly planning meetings, training and implementation in seed collection protocols, and plant identification in the field
• Apply for and document permission for all wild seed collections
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols by field staff when conducting seed collections
• Maintain detailed documentation and data tracking of seed collections
• Communicate with Conservation and Horticulture departments on status and planning around seed collections

Desired Skills and Experience

The ideal candidate will possess a working knowledge of the flora of New England and experience facilitating meetings at field sites with partners and landowners. The candidate will be versed in ecological field work and will follow protocols for seed collection. Well-developed communication skills are essential. In addition, the position requires:

• Understanding of field safety and protocols for wild seed collection (training available)
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Ability to communicate clearly in writing and orally, and being comfortable conducting outreach for permits and permissions for conducting field collections
• Ability to work in various and sometimes difficult conditions in all types of weather
• Ability to be flexible in terms of daily tasks
• Positive outlook and willingness to learn and grow

Hours and Compensation: This is a full-time (40 hours/week), six-month, seasonal position with a salary of $22,500.00 Seasonal employees receive sick days and are covered by Workers’ Compensation, but are not eligible for health insurance or retirement benefits.

To Apply

Please submit a letter of interest and resume (MS Word or PDF format, with your last name as part of the file name), along with references to mpiantedosi@NativePlantTrust.org, using the subject line “Seed Collection Coordinator Application.”

Application deadline: August 21, 2023