American Forests
Senior Manager, South Central Oregon Seed Orchard
American Forests, Lakeview, Oregon, United States, 97630
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Senior Manager, South Central Oregon Seed Orchard
role at
American Forests
This range is provided by American Forests. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range $60,000.00/yr - $80,000.00/yr
Mission in Action Trees play a vital role in solving some of the most pressing issues facing our communities, our society, and our world today. For 150 years, American Forests has stood boldly at the forefront of the conservation movement, working collaboratively and innovatively to ensure that all people have access to the benefits of trees. As we look ahead to the next 150, continued collective action will be essential to securing a healthy, climate‑resilient future for all.
What You’ll Do As part of the team, you will collaborate with local partners to develop quality, climate‑adapted seed to support restoration efforts in fire‑prone, dry forests of Oregon and Northern California. The Senior Manager will be responsible for the comprehensive planning, development, establishment, and ongoing management of a new, 60+ acre conifer seed orchard and requires experience in forest genetics, horticulture, and project management, with a strong emphasis on species adapted to dry, east‑side climates of Oregon and Northern California. The Senior Manager will lead all aspects of orchard development, ensuring the production of high‑quality, genetically diverse seed for future reforestation programs. The successful candidate will build and maintain partnerships with federal, local, state, private, and tribal entities to support reforestation initiatives. Seed sources will include Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, Whitebark Pine, Sugar Pine, and Incense Cedar.
Major responsibilities include:
Seed Orchard Management (55%)
Planning and Development (Initial Phase)
Orchard Site Assessment
Conduct site evaluations, including soil analysis, irrigation systems, logistical considerations, and identify necessary steps to begin implementation of seed orchard
Conduct minor repairs or general maintenance/upkeep
Orchard Design and Layout
Develop orchard design with landowners and foresters, including blocks for different species, irrigation layout, and potential for greenhouse development
Seed Selection and Propagation
Select appropriate parent source material best suited for dry site conditions, climate resilience, and geographic locations
Develop and implement strategies for initial plant material acquisition, grafting, and establishment of orchard trees
Budget and Resource Planning
Develop detailed budgets, procure necessary equipment and supplies, and manage resources effectively during the establishment phase
Infrastructure Development
Oversee the planning and implementation of all necessary infrastructure, including irrigation, power, and specialized equipment for orchard operations
Orchard Management and Operations (Ongoing)
Operational Activities
Graft and crown maintenance, planting, application of chemicals to control weeds and insects, pruning, maintenance and operation of irrigation systems, mowing, use of plant hormones to increase cone production, monitoring and adjusting application of fertilizers for tree nutrition as needed, frost protection, pollen management and oversight of the harvest of the cone crops
Genetic Integrity
Maintain records of tree parentage, genetic crosses, and orchard layout to ensure genetic integrity
Cone and Seed Production
Manage all aspects of cone collection, handling, storage and transportation logistics to extract seeds
Inventory Management
Maintain accurate inventory of seed, plant material, and orchard assets
Maintenance
Ensure proper operation and maintenance of all orchard equipment and facilities
Leadership, Administration, and Collaboration (35%)
Stakeholder Engagement
Develop outreach strategy to engage underserved private landowners, including veterans, limited resource producers, beginning forest landowners ( Build partnerships with resource conservation districts, state agencies, municipalities, university extension specialists, and consulting foresters to support landowner education and engagement around resilient reforestation market opportunities
Collaborate effectively with internal and external partners, including foresters, geneticists, land managers, researchers, and regulatory agencies
Leadership
Train, supervise, and mentor up to 5 full‑time permanent and/or seasonal orchard staff, fostering a safe, productive, and collaborative work environment
Ensure all operations comply with safety regulations, environmental standards, and organizational policies
Administrative
Prepare regular reports on orchard status, seed production, budget, and project milestones
Support staff and consulting foresters in coordinating reforestation project implementation, including seedling orders, planting contractors, and other implementation work as needed
Support program fundraising with grant writing and participation in other fundraising efforts as appropriate
Work with administration and operation staff to track and manage program finances
Develop and manage budgets in partnership with American Forests’ program and finance departments
Research and Innovation (10%)
Participate in and support applied research initiatives related to conifer genetics, seed production, orchard management techniques, and species migration
Stay current with advancements in seed orchard technology, forest genetics, and dry site silviculture, implementing new methods as appropriate
Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
Assist American Forests’ staff in the delivery of relevant in‑person meetings, conferences, and events
Conduct public presentations at conferences and meetings
Plan and lead site visits and field tours as appropriate
What We’re Looking For
Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Forest Genetics, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred
At least 5 years of progressive experience in seed orchard management, forest nursery operations, forest genetics, silviculture, or intensive horticulture
Proven experience establishing and developing agricultural or forestry operations, particularly with conifer species suited to dry or eastern PNW climates
Strong knowledge of forest genetics, tree physiology, and plant propagation techniques (e.g., grafting, rooting)
Expertise in irrigation and nutrient management, pest and disease identification and control, and soil science
Experience operating farm equipment
Familiarity with cone induction, crop assessment, and maturity evaluation
Proficient in GIS/GPS technologies for site mapping and orchard layout
Experience in data management, record‑keeping, and grant writing for large‑scale projects
Demonstrated leadership and team management skills
Strong project management, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities
Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences
Valid driver’s license required for travel to field sites
Reporting and Supervision The Senior Manager reports to The Director, Pacific Northwest. This position does not have any direct reports at this time.
Compensation, Benefits & Working Conditions This is a full‑time, salaried exempt position. The budget salary range is between $60,000 and $80,000 annually. The seed orchard facility is planned to be located in Klamath County, OR. Finalization of site selection and development will be one of the initial duties of the selected applicant. While the position will largely be located at the seed orchard, some minimal travel (15%) may be required. Most of the travel would be within the western United States to engage in key stakeholder meetings, program events, and projects. American Forests headquarters is in Washington, DC and occasional travel may be required to engage with colleagues.
With or without reasonable accommodation, the individual must: work outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold; walk, stand, bend, stoop, and lift up to 50 pounds regularly; operate and maintain various types of equipment.
Benefits Health and Wellness, Work‑Life Balance, Financial and Retirement
Medical, Dental, and Vision
Vacation and Sick Leave
401(k) 6% Match
Employee Assistance Program
Paid Holidays
Flexible Spending Accounts
Disability Insurance
Cell Phone Reimbursement
Life and AD&D Insurance
Military Leave
Core Competencies Attitude, Communication, Organization, Problem‑Solving & Creativity, Representing the Organization
About Us American Forests is a national non‑profit organization committed to creating healthy and resilient forests from cities to large forest landscapes, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water, and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place‑based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world in which the significant environmental, societal, and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non‑profit conservation organization in the U.S. working to restore urban forests and forested landscapes for over 150 years.
American Forests is proud to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible workplace. These are our shared values. We welcome individuals who bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences to be a part of our team to help make a difference individually and collectively as we work toward achieving our mission. We are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming and respectful and provides opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.
Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. Reasonable accommodation may be made to provide access to all individuals along the continuum of human ability and experience. Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran/LGBTQ+ encouraged to apply.
Seniority level Mid‑Senior level
Employment type Full‑time
Job function Other
Industries: Non‑profit Organizations
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Senior Manager, South Central Oregon Seed Orchard
role at
American Forests
This range is provided by American Forests. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range $60,000.00/yr - $80,000.00/yr
Mission in Action Trees play a vital role in solving some of the most pressing issues facing our communities, our society, and our world today. For 150 years, American Forests has stood boldly at the forefront of the conservation movement, working collaboratively and innovatively to ensure that all people have access to the benefits of trees. As we look ahead to the next 150, continued collective action will be essential to securing a healthy, climate‑resilient future for all.
What You’ll Do As part of the team, you will collaborate with local partners to develop quality, climate‑adapted seed to support restoration efforts in fire‑prone, dry forests of Oregon and Northern California. The Senior Manager will be responsible for the comprehensive planning, development, establishment, and ongoing management of a new, 60+ acre conifer seed orchard and requires experience in forest genetics, horticulture, and project management, with a strong emphasis on species adapted to dry, east‑side climates of Oregon and Northern California. The Senior Manager will lead all aspects of orchard development, ensuring the production of high‑quality, genetically diverse seed for future reforestation programs. The successful candidate will build and maintain partnerships with federal, local, state, private, and tribal entities to support reforestation initiatives. Seed sources will include Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, Whitebark Pine, Sugar Pine, and Incense Cedar.
Major responsibilities include:
Seed Orchard Management (55%)
Planning and Development (Initial Phase)
Orchard Site Assessment
Conduct site evaluations, including soil analysis, irrigation systems, logistical considerations, and identify necessary steps to begin implementation of seed orchard
Conduct minor repairs or general maintenance/upkeep
Orchard Design and Layout
Develop orchard design with landowners and foresters, including blocks for different species, irrigation layout, and potential for greenhouse development
Seed Selection and Propagation
Select appropriate parent source material best suited for dry site conditions, climate resilience, and geographic locations
Develop and implement strategies for initial plant material acquisition, grafting, and establishment of orchard trees
Budget and Resource Planning
Develop detailed budgets, procure necessary equipment and supplies, and manage resources effectively during the establishment phase
Infrastructure Development
Oversee the planning and implementation of all necessary infrastructure, including irrigation, power, and specialized equipment for orchard operations
Orchard Management and Operations (Ongoing)
Operational Activities
Graft and crown maintenance, planting, application of chemicals to control weeds and insects, pruning, maintenance and operation of irrigation systems, mowing, use of plant hormones to increase cone production, monitoring and adjusting application of fertilizers for tree nutrition as needed, frost protection, pollen management and oversight of the harvest of the cone crops
Genetic Integrity
Maintain records of tree parentage, genetic crosses, and orchard layout to ensure genetic integrity
Cone and Seed Production
Manage all aspects of cone collection, handling, storage and transportation logistics to extract seeds
Inventory Management
Maintain accurate inventory of seed, plant material, and orchard assets
Maintenance
Ensure proper operation and maintenance of all orchard equipment and facilities
Leadership, Administration, and Collaboration (35%)
Stakeholder Engagement
Develop outreach strategy to engage underserved private landowners, including veterans, limited resource producers, beginning forest landowners ( Build partnerships with resource conservation districts, state agencies, municipalities, university extension specialists, and consulting foresters to support landowner education and engagement around resilient reforestation market opportunities
Collaborate effectively with internal and external partners, including foresters, geneticists, land managers, researchers, and regulatory agencies
Leadership
Train, supervise, and mentor up to 5 full‑time permanent and/or seasonal orchard staff, fostering a safe, productive, and collaborative work environment
Ensure all operations comply with safety regulations, environmental standards, and organizational policies
Administrative
Prepare regular reports on orchard status, seed production, budget, and project milestones
Support staff and consulting foresters in coordinating reforestation project implementation, including seedling orders, planting contractors, and other implementation work as needed
Support program fundraising with grant writing and participation in other fundraising efforts as appropriate
Work with administration and operation staff to track and manage program finances
Develop and manage budgets in partnership with American Forests’ program and finance departments
Research and Innovation (10%)
Participate in and support applied research initiatives related to conifer genetics, seed production, orchard management techniques, and species migration
Stay current with advancements in seed orchard technology, forest genetics, and dry site silviculture, implementing new methods as appropriate
Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
Assist American Forests’ staff in the delivery of relevant in‑person meetings, conferences, and events
Conduct public presentations at conferences and meetings
Plan and lead site visits and field tours as appropriate
What We’re Looking For
Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Forest Genetics, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred
At least 5 years of progressive experience in seed orchard management, forest nursery operations, forest genetics, silviculture, or intensive horticulture
Proven experience establishing and developing agricultural or forestry operations, particularly with conifer species suited to dry or eastern PNW climates
Strong knowledge of forest genetics, tree physiology, and plant propagation techniques (e.g., grafting, rooting)
Expertise in irrigation and nutrient management, pest and disease identification and control, and soil science
Experience operating farm equipment
Familiarity with cone induction, crop assessment, and maturity evaluation
Proficient in GIS/GPS technologies for site mapping and orchard layout
Experience in data management, record‑keeping, and grant writing for large‑scale projects
Demonstrated leadership and team management skills
Strong project management, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities
Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences
Valid driver’s license required for travel to field sites
Reporting and Supervision The Senior Manager reports to The Director, Pacific Northwest. This position does not have any direct reports at this time.
Compensation, Benefits & Working Conditions This is a full‑time, salaried exempt position. The budget salary range is between $60,000 and $80,000 annually. The seed orchard facility is planned to be located in Klamath County, OR. Finalization of site selection and development will be one of the initial duties of the selected applicant. While the position will largely be located at the seed orchard, some minimal travel (15%) may be required. Most of the travel would be within the western United States to engage in key stakeholder meetings, program events, and projects. American Forests headquarters is in Washington, DC and occasional travel may be required to engage with colleagues.
With or without reasonable accommodation, the individual must: work outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold; walk, stand, bend, stoop, and lift up to 50 pounds regularly; operate and maintain various types of equipment.
Benefits Health and Wellness, Work‑Life Balance, Financial and Retirement
Medical, Dental, and Vision
Vacation and Sick Leave
401(k) 6% Match
Employee Assistance Program
Paid Holidays
Flexible Spending Accounts
Disability Insurance
Cell Phone Reimbursement
Life and AD&D Insurance
Military Leave
Core Competencies Attitude, Communication, Organization, Problem‑Solving & Creativity, Representing the Organization
About Us American Forests is a national non‑profit organization committed to creating healthy and resilient forests from cities to large forest landscapes, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water, and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place‑based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world in which the significant environmental, societal, and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non‑profit conservation organization in the U.S. working to restore urban forests and forested landscapes for over 150 years.
American Forests is proud to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible workplace. These are our shared values. We welcome individuals who bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences to be a part of our team to help make a difference individually and collectively as we work toward achieving our mission. We are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming and respectful and provides opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.
Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. Reasonable accommodation may be made to provide access to all individuals along the continuum of human ability and experience. Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran/LGBTQ+ encouraged to apply.
Seniority level Mid‑Senior level
Employment type Full‑time
Job function Other
Industries: Non‑profit Organizations
#J-18808-Ljbffr