Pest Control Advisor

Position Title: PCA – Crop Protection

Position Summary:

Capay Farms, based in Hamilton City, California, is looking for a PCA to assist with management of over 10,000 acres of almonds and walnuts. The PCA for crop protection manages the IPM program for Capay Farms. This position is ultimately responsible for, and has a direct impact on, the quality and value of our final product. It is a key position within the farm management team.

Hours Per Week: 50 and availability as needed

Duties, Tasks and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

·        Required to maintain PCA, CCA, and California Drivers License

·        Scout all fields managed by Capay Farm for pest pressure and crop health. 

·        Develop and maintain insect trapping schemes for all ranches.

·        Write chemical recommendations and prepare use reports for all ranches.

·        Order chemicals and review chemical invoices with Front Office Admin to verify correct amount and price.

·        Develop annual chemical budget.

·        Manage chemical barn inventory.

·        Manage all aspects of spraying application (tree and weed sprays)

·        Review chemical safety protocol prior to chemical applications, conduct tailgate trainings with employees and review/follow Respirator Protection Plan

·        Speak with chemical reps and attend meetings about new chemical development and efficacy.

·        Fill out paperwork for the County Ag Commissioners and other govt. agencies as required (e.g. NOI’s; HazMat permits; Respirator Protection Plan; etc.)

·        Work on and review hazardous material communication plan, prepare for the Ag Commissioners bi-annual headquarters inspections.

·        Evaluate orchard status daily. i.e. tree maintenance, mowing, tillage, pruning, replants, etc.

·        Work with farm management team to select tree rootstock, variety, and spacing for all new plantings

·        Coordinate daily with other Farm Managers to align priorities and assist on projects as needed.

·        As a member of the Capay Farms Management team, cooperate and work with other team members to influence the Capay Farms culture, vision, strategy, and long term goals.

·        Monitor overall field efficiency and performance. Work with supervisors to improve efficiency, develop employees, and hire/fire staff as needed to ensure Capay Farms is a safe and efficient workplace.

·        Have an innovative mindset – stays up to date on new agricultural technology and trials/implements new methods to improve Capay Farms.

·        Make Capay Farms an employer of choice. Create an environment of safety and sustainability in the field, and keep a finger on the pulse of employee morale. Represent Capay Farms in a respectable manner at all times.

·        Proof and approve payroll and vendor invoices weekly

·        In conjunction with management team, set annual budgets and review regularly.

·        Assist Human Resources on all field related issues – i.e. job descriptions for field employees, employee performance and compensation, etc.

·        Monitor temperature during frost season. Coordinate frost management.

·        Promote a culture of safety at all times. Collaborate with Safety Manager to ensure proper trainings occur and improve overall safety atmosphere of Capay Farms.            

·        Enforcement of all company policies and procedures.

·        Attend safety, field and management meetings.

Reports to:

General Manager, CEO

Direct Reports:

Field Scouts & PCA Interns

Interactions:

Consultants, Chemical Vendors