Manager, Chico Seed Orchard (Term)

American Forests is seeking a Manager for the Chico Seed Orchard to enhance cone production and address seed shortages for reforestation efforts. Responsibilities include managing seed orchard operations, maintaining tree health, and performing administrative tasks. Candidates should have a degree in relevant fields, experience in data management, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. This position is based in Chico, CA and is not remote.
Our 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. To support this work, we are looking for a Manager, Chico Seed Orchard, to join our Resilient Forests team.


What You’ll Do


As a part of the team, you will directly contribute to an increase in cone production and collection at the Chico Seed Orchard, helping to address strategic seed shortages and impact reforestation efforts. Major responsibilities include:


Seed Orchard Operations (85%)



Compile and manage data relating to the seed orchard’s production and inventory, support with database maintenance.
Maintain current and develop new standard processes and procedures for the seed orchard’s future production.
Support orchard tree health through culling, pruning, mowing, weeding, fertilizing, trunk protection, and pest management practices including pesticide use and animal control methods.
Complete cone crop forecasting, monitoring, collection, and sanitization.
Maintain the seed orchard’s irrigation system which includes hooking up and moving metal/PVC pipe and also cutting/gluing sprinkler systems.
Tow trailers and operate various equipment with provided training including: a farm tractor with implements, self-driven industrial mower, ATVs/UTVs.
Conduct basic equipment maintenance with provided training.
Identify and tag trees for recordkeeping purposes.
Chainsaw, polesaw and weed eating duties.

Administrative Tasks (15%)



Participate in bimonthly all-staff meetings; be available to participate in monthly department meetings throughout the term as deemed necessary and appropriate.
Complete all required administrative aspects of the position including onboarding-related training, time sheet submission, and performance assessments.
Support grant management and administration including providing invoice documentation, submitting payment requests, reporting on project outcomes, assisting with grant and agreement modifications, and other tasks.
Additional items may be identified as needed to support the overarching goals of American Forests as it relates to relevant fund sources.

What We’re Looking For


We don’t expect you to check every single box. If this role excites you, we want to hear from you! We’re interested in your ability to learn, collaborate, and bring fresh perspectives.



Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Agriculture or a related field.
Ability to work independently and self-manage to maintain productivity within American Forests and US Forest Service expectations.
Experience with data entry/database management and/or record keeping.
Ability to think creatively and problem-solve, with a willingness to find innovative solutions.
Attention to detail.
Ability to work well alone and within a team.
Ability to commit to the full term.
Must meet OSHA requirements and obtain required training as necessary.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and a reasonably clean driving record to operate a work vehicle.
Basic first aid training or willingness to receive same.
Proficiency with ArcGIS, Survey123 and Avenza preferred.
Prior experience with tree or plant care, seed and cone identification is preferred.
Mechanical skills and knowledge preferred.
Project planning and implementation experience, especially reforestation or agricultural projects is preferred.

Reporting and Supervision


The Manager, Chico Seed Orchard will work closely onsite with USDA Forest Service (USFS) staff (Chico Seed Orchard Manager), who will assign and supervise work day-to-day. Site supervision will occur in close coordination with American Forests’ Senior Manager, California Seed Production to whom this position will report. This position does not have any direct reports at this time.


Compensation, Benefits & Working Conditions


This is a full-time, hourly, non-exempt position through August 2028. The budget hourly range is between $25.64 and $33.33 per hour.


The Manager must live in or near Chico, CA will be expected to work in-person at the USFS Chico Seed Orchard, Monday through Friday, with hours varying depending on the season. Some weekend shifts may be required. Required work will be conducted almost entirely outdoors in a variety of weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, and wind. This job requires moderately strenuous physical effort including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds; physical exertion in rugged terrain; walking, standing, stooping, bending, twisting; and working in manlifts at heights for extended periods of time. The use of personal protective equipment will be required.


Occasional travel may be required to support the scope of work, and American Forests’ mission, not to exceed 10% of the position’s duties. If overnight travel is required, either lodging or a camping stipend will be provided.


The individual must be comfortable working outside in all kinds of weather on uneven ground doing physical labor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to provide access to all individuals along the continuum of human ability and experience.