Location: Hopkinton Wholesale
Employment Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $20.00 – $25.00 per hour (Based on Experience)
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About Weston Nurseries
Weston Nurseries is one of the region’s leading garden centers and wholesalers of plant material and gardening products. Maintaining healthy, high-quality plant material is central to our operation. The Spray Technician plays a critical role in protecting plant health through safe, effective, and compliant pest, weed, and disease management practices across all nursery sections.
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Position Overview
The Spray Technician is responsible for the proper application of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides to control weeds, insects, bacteria, and fungal diseases affecting nursery stock. This role supports Weston Nurseries’ plant health standards by ensuring treatments are applied accurately, safely, and in accordance with all regulatory and environmental guidelines.
This position is ideal for a detail-oriented, dependable individual with experience in pesticide application and plant health care who is comfortable working outdoors and collaborating with yard operations and section management teams.
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Primary Responsibilities
· Apply herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides as directed to manage pests, weeds, and plant diseases
· Follow all pesticide label instructions, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and company safety protocols
· Inspect plant material regularly to identify pest pressure, disease symptoms, and weed activity
· Report observations and treatment recommendations to management and Section Managers
· Accurately mix chemical solutions according to prescribed rates and safety standards
· Calibrate, operate, and maintain spray equipment to ensure even and effective application
· Monitor weather and environmental conditions to determine appropriate spray timing and prevent drift or runoff
· Maintain detailed spray records, including products used, application rates, treated areas, and weather conditions, in compliance with state and federal regulations
· Assist with pest and disease monitoring programs, including trap placement, sampling, and tracking trends
· Clean and maintain spray tanks, hoses, nozzles, and related equipment after use
· Coordinate spray schedules with Section Managers and Yard Operations staff to minimize operational disruption
· Ensure proper use of required PPE and adherence to all re-entry intervals (REIs)
· Assist with training seasonal staff on basic pest awareness and plant health best practices, as directed
· Support general nursery operations during non-spray periods, including watering, weeding, or plant maintenance tasks
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Qualifications & Requirements
· Prior experience in pesticide application, nursery operations, or horticulture preferred
· Knowledge of plant pests, diseases, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles
· Mechanical aptitude for maintaining spray rigs and related equipment
· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
· Strong attention to detail and commitment to safe chemical handling practices
· Effective communication and record-keeping skills
· Team-oriented with the ability to work independently when needed
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Work Environment & Schedule
· Outdoor nursery and yard maintenance environment
· Physically active role involving walking, lifting, and equipment operation
· Weekend work may be required during peak seasons
