Nursery Manager

About the Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association

The Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association (LSAMCA) is the representative body for the historic and contemporary Lac Ste. Anne Métis (LSAM) community, an independent, vibrant Métis community. We are a section 35 (
Constitution Act,
1982) Métis Aboriginal rights-bearing collective (otherwise known as a 'Powley' community) whose traditional territory encompasses present day west central and northwest Alberta.

As a kinship-based community, and with a strong sense of community and cultural identity, we participate in a shared culture inclusive of our distinctive customs and traditions, including the continued exercise of our Métis harvesting rights. These activities and way of life remain core to our identity as a modern-day, rights bearing Métis people.

Position Overview

Reporting to a Representative of the Board of Directors, the
Nursery Manager
is responsible for initiating and maintaining the operation of a new native plant nursery located in Stony Plain, AB and to ensure its financial success and the satisfaction of our clients. Key to the role is start up activities that ensure the success of the business, including set up, production planning and propagation, horticulture and inventory management, and managing support staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Configure nursery layout to promote efficient and scalable production and storage.
• Manage internal workings of greenhouses, including irrigation, pest management, and environmental controls.
• Collaborate to put in place industry best safety standards.
• Schedule and oversee propagation timing for trees, shrubs, and herbaceous native species.
• Maintain an accurate record of plant production, survival rates, and inventory levels.
• Participate in setting nursery production targets.
• Hold responsibility for all incoming and outgoing orders.
• Train and supervise nursery support staff, as needed.
• Oversee and maintain records related to materials needs.
• Lead seed collection activities; engage directly with native seed banking facilities.
• Maintain equipment; identify new items for purchase.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients.
• Identify innovation and process improvements to support business sustainability.
• Lead site tours, including for educational purposes.
• Provide guidance/ collaborate with restoration consultants for special projects, as needed.
• Other duties, as required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience working in a commercial forestry or nursery operation with a focus on native seedlings.
• 3+ years of progressive business management experience, preferably in a growing facility.
• Post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree in Horticulture, Forestry, Agriculture or Biology.
• Previous experience supervising staff.
• Pesticide / herbicide applicator license.
• Strong interest in restoration using native seedlings.
• Ability to propagate native plants from seed.
• Clear and effective communicator with strong written and verbal skills.
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities.
• High standard of integrity and ethical behaviour.
• Ability to perform physical labour.
• Valid First Aid certification.
• Class 5 Driver's Licence.
• Experience operating farm machinery.
• Experience using Microsoft software.

Assets

• Previous experience with a start-up nursery business.
• Working knowledge of taxonomy related to regional native species in Alberta.
• Understanding of pest management and greenhouse irrigation workings.
• Progressive understanding of the aspirations of Indigenous communities and demonstrated modeling of cultural awareness and sensitivity.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to work directly with a dynamic, growth-oriented organization and to contribute to protecting the Lac Ste. Anne Métis community's rights and way of life.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package (to be discussed).
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Full time or Part time opportunity.
• Onsite with some activities to take place off site, as needed.

Please include a cover letter with your application describing your relevant experience and interest in this role.

We thank all interested applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.