Field Scout

Job Summary
We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Field Scout to monitor and assess crop health across almond orchards, pistachio orchards, and raisin grape vineyards. In this hands-on role, you will serve as the "eyes and ears" in the field, identifying pests, diseases, weeds, nutrient issues, and other factors that impact yield and quality. Your observations and data will directly support growers and consultants in making timely IPM (Integrated Pest Management), irrigation, and cultural decisions. This position involves extensive outdoor fieldwork, walking orchards and vineyards, and working in California's Central Valley climate.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct regular, systematic scouting walks through almond, pistachio, and raisin grape fields to monitor crop health and detect early signs of problems.
• Identify and document key pests (e.g., navel orangeworm, codling moth, mites, aphids, leaf-footed plant bugs, mealybugs, ants) and beneficial insects.
• Scout for common diseases (e.g., hull rot, anthracnose, botryosphaeria, powdery mildew, Alternaria, grapevine viruses) and nutrient deficiencies or environmental stress.
• Monitor weed populations and pressure in orchards and vineyards.
• Place, monitor, collect, and count insect pheromone traps, delta traps, and other monitoring devices; record trap data accurately.
• Collect tissue, soil, or water samples as needed for lab analysis.
• Evaluate nut/fruit development stages, hull split timing (almonds/pistachios), raisin drying conditions, and overall plant vigor.
• Record detailed field notes, photos, and data using scouting forms, mobile apps, or digital reporting tools.
• Prepare clear, timely reports for growers, PCAs, or management to guide treatment decisions.
• Assist with release of biological control agents when directed.
• Maintain safety protocols and equipment in the field.
• Travel to multiple grower sites daily within the assigned region.

Qualifications & Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; agricultural education or experience preferred.
• Prior experience scouting tree nuts (almonds/pistachios), vineyards, or row crops strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of common pests, diseases, and production practices for almonds, pistachios, and raisins/grapes.
• Ability to identify insects, weeds, and disease symptoms (training provided if needed).
• Comfortable working outdoors in hot, dusty conditions; capable of walking long distances (5–10+ miles/day) over uneven terrain.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record (company vehicle may be provided).
• Strong attention to detail, observation skills, and data recording accuracy.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while meeting deadlines.
• Basic computer/mobile device skills for data entry and reporting.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus, as many growers and crews communicate in Spanish.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, or extended days during peak seasons (e.g., hull split, harvest prep).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with IPM scouting protocols in permanent crops.
• Familiarity with pest thresholds and monitoring tools (traps, lures).
• Pursuing or interest in PCA (Pest Control Advisor) license or agricultural certification.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and potential for overtime during busy seasons.
• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in high-value California tree nut and raisin production.
• Training and mentorship from experienced Crop Consultants/PCAs.
• Potential path to advancement (e.g., senior scout, PCA assistant).
• [Add benefits if applicable: health insurance, mileage reimbursement, tools provided, etc.]

How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a brief note about your agricultural experience or interest in crop scouting via Indeed. We encourage applicants from agricultural backgrounds to apply!

This role is ideal for someone passionate about agriculture, enjoys fieldwork, and wants to contribute to optimizing yields in California's nut and raisin industries.

Feel free to customize placeholders (location, pay, benefits) to fit your specific needs! Let me know if you'd like adjustments, such as making it seasonal-only or adding more emphasis on certain aspects.

Pay: $17.50 - $20.00 per hour

Work Location: In person