Orchard AG Crop Scout, $21.50/hour

The Orchard Agricultural Crop Scout will monitor fields to identify crop health issues, pests, diseases, and weeds, then provides data and recommendations to Crop Control Specialist or Supervisor.  Will also be responsible for the monitoring of crop production and identifying areas of improvement to maximize yields.

Primary Job Functions:

• Identify noxious weeds growing in fields, preferably less than 3 inches tall.
• Conduct soil and leaf tissue samples.
• Perform yield estimates throughout the growing season.
• Use knowledge of growth stages in coffee orchard to predict potential problems.
• Identify and potentially diagnose crop diseases or pest infestation.
• Relay findings to the supervisor and make recommendations based on your finding.
• Remain up to date on the latest chemistry and technologies (such as drones or apps).
• Collects plant samples from designated areas, dries samples, weighs and performs routine analysis using standard laboratory equipment such as balances, measuring units, and prepares for shipment.
• Takes soil samples at designated places as directed and prepares for shipment.
• Collects water samples for analysis.
• Counts pest and noxious weed infestations from designated areas and records data.
• Cultivates experimental plots by applying herbicides, fertilizer, water, according to experiment requirement; performs necessary work in controlling fertilizer and water differentials in tests, and in harvesting experimental plots and in laying block tests.
• Records information as required and performs routine data entry.
• Takes pre-harvest data such as flower bud counts, ripening counts, and counts for yield estimation.
• Operates a two-way radio, cell phone, motor vehicle, tractor, mower, drones as needed in the performance of duties, responsible for proper service of vehicle and equipment.
• Observes standard safety regulations and Federal worker protection standards (WPS).
• Conducts out of scope orchard work as required or directed by supervisor.
• Must be possess knowledge of rainforest and Fairtrade certification standards.

 Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must possess current Hawaii driver’s license.
• Must be proficient in uses of electronic devices (iPad, GPS, etc.).
• Basic knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel and Outlook).
• State of Hawaii, Pesticide Applicator Certification (preferred).
• Must possess part 107 FAA Drone pilot licenses (or be able to obtain 6-12 months after hire date).
• Ability to walk and remain standing for long periods of time.
• Able to work in various weather conditions including sun and wind.
• Daily exposure to flora, fauna and pollens.

Critical Competencies

• Sense of observation, initiative, judgment, autonomy, ease of learning and adaptation, and teamwork skills.