Plant Material Receiving and Distribution Specialist; SRA NEX

Under general supervision, the Plant Distribution Specialist performs a wide variety of standard and specialized plant introduction, propagation, quarantine, and distribution procedures. This role is responsible for timely and accurate delivery of material that meets specific eligibility criteria, analysis and maintenance of records, and collaboration with faculty, staff and customers to support operational needs. The position requires a high level of specialized knowledge in plant pathology in order to perform technical observations, independent execution of established procedures, and adaptation of protocols to meet research, regulatory, and operational needs within Foundation Plant Services.

Apply By Date: January 6, 2026

Minimum Qualifications – For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position:

• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that meets local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.
• Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, biology, plant sciences or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• No minimum work experience required.
• Strong organizational and record‑keeping skills, including ability to organize complex data into an accurate and easily understood format. Demonstrated ability to use computers and database programs with working knowledge of Windows‑based software including MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and the department’s internal ADAPT database.
• Ability to work independently with general supervision, set work priorities involving concurrent, complex tasks, and work flexibly under pressure in an active research/academic/University environment.
• Ability to communicate and cooperate with others in the University and the general public, including good verbal and written English language skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of horticulture, plant sciences, botany, and principles of plant propagation. In particular, greenhouse management, nursery techniques, diagnosis of problems with pot‑grown plants, pest control, and techniques for the collection, storage, and shipping of dormant and green plant material.
• Ability to recognize problems with plant conditions, procedures, or equipment and take appropriate corrective actions.

• Master’s degree in horticulture, plant sciences or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in plant handling, inventory management, or nursery operations.
• Familiarity with greenhouse operations and the timing of plant growth in relation to seasonal and climatic conditions.
• Background in plant pathology with knowledge of abiotic and biotic symptoms and their cause and effects on host plants.
• Skills to recognize plant diseases and symptoms that may affect the viability of plant material. Skill to make consistent and equitable decisions using established standards that frequently require interpretation.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Demonstrated excellent management skills, including the ability to work independently with minimal direction to plan, coordinate, direct, and perform numerous/various tasks simultaneously and efficiently.
• Knowledge of department policies and procedures related to sale and distribution of plant material, including the licensing and distribution procedures for UC‑patented plant materials.
• Skill in providing excellent customer service, including determining availability of a customer’s plant materials, estimated delivery times, tracking multiple orders from multiple clients, ensuring that distribution is facilitated by timely shipping or pick‑up, and communicating and ensuring both within FPS and with customers about the status of orders.
• Ability to read, understand and implement complex regulations regarding domestic and international shipment of plant materials.

• 40% – Specialize in distribution of plant material that meets quarantine and certification program requirements and complies with phytosanitary regulations.
• 30% – Conduct technical oversight of plant accessions through biosecurity, introduction, and…