What are the responsibilities and job description for the Propagation Manager position at Forrest Keeling Nursery?
About Us
Forrest Keeling Nursery is a visionary leader in native plant production, recognized for seven decades of expertise and more than thirty years of independent research. Native plants are our passion and our brand—we produce the highest‑quality native plant material on the market through our patented RPM® (Root Production Method) system.
About the Role
We are seeking a Propagation Manager to lead all propagation activities and ensure the highest standards of plant quality within our RPM® system. This hands-on, leadership-oriented role oversees propagation processes from seed collection through up-sizing, supervises seasonal and full-time team members, and ensures efficient, accurate, and safe nursery operations.
As a central contributor to our production success, you will collaborate with the Production team, maintain essential inventory and planting records, and uphold propagation best practices that support our long-term ecological and business goals.
What You’ll Do
Team Leadership & Operations
- Supervise 5–20 propagation employees
- Create daily and weekly work schedules
- Train staff in propagation techniques and best practices
- Ensure all work aligns with RPM® standards and protocols
Propagation & Production
- Oversee propagation from seed collection to the up-sizing stage
- Maintain scion and seed orchard records
- Manage collection of seed, cutting, and scion material
- Oversee watering, weeding, and general plant maintenance
- Maintain clean and accurate inventory and planting records
- Participate in production meetings and report on propagation-area updates
- Assist with annual production planning and forecasting
Plant Health & Compliance
- Scout for pests and diseases and collaborate with the General Manager
- Ensure all activities follow SANC (Systems Approach to Nursery Certification) protocols
Professional Engagement
· Opportunities to travel to conferences and industry events
· Opportunities for continued training and professional development
What We’re Looking For
· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, forestry, plant science, agriculture, or related field or equivalent hands-on nursery/production experience is preferred.
- Prior experience in nursery, horticulture, forestry, or related agricultural field is preferred.
- Experience supervising teams or leading work crews is preferred
· Familiarity with inventory records, production data, or digital tracking systems (or willingness to learn)
- Basic plant, pest, or disease knowledge (or willingness to learn)
· Strong organizational and recordkeeping abilities
· Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment
· Basic computer skills (Excel, Outlook, digital record systems)
· Ability to follow detailed protocols and maintain high-quality standards
· Detail-oriented, self-motivated individual who is willing to learn.
- Ability to stand for extended periods on gravel and perform physical tasks
- Understanding of propagation systems or nursery production workflows is preferred
- Ability to speak English and Spanish is preferred
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Vacation and Sick pay
- Holiday pay
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Dynamic and supportive work environment
Location: On-Site; Elsberry, MO
Schedule: 40± hours per week, Monday–Friday
- Winter: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Summer: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Some Saturday shifts required during peak season.
Status: Full-Time
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person