Supervises the care and maintenance of crops and other plants for developmental, research, and/or instructional purposes.

Positions within this class have management responsibility over farming operations and supervise Plant Technician 2's, farm workers, and part-time helpers in the maintenance of crops and other plant research.

Supervises assistants and performs activities in irrigating, fertilizing, pest control, breeding, management, and general care of plants for research and teaching functions;

Observes plants for symptoms indicating disease or insect infestation; administers prescribed treatment for diseases and pest control;

Cleans farm, greenhouse and nursery facilities;

Oversees or maintains records consistent with management, research, and cultural programs;

Demonstrates laboratory exercises for students;

Performs related duties as required.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

High school graduation or GED certificate and four years of work experience in plant research, including one year in managing a major farming operation.

College training in one of the plant sciences may be substituted, year-for-year, for required experience. Additional years of experience in plant research may be substituted, year-for-year, for high school education.

Specified course work or experience within a discipline may be required.

Equivalent education/experience.

New Class: 5-17-73
General revision. Revises title (formerly Plant Technician III), class code (formerly 4517), typical work, minimum qualifications; effective July 1, 2007.
Shadow class adopted June 23, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.