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Native Plant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Native Plant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$44K

$105.9K

$151.7K

How much do native plant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for native plant in Portland, OR is $105,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a native plant?

Native plants are species of plants that have evolved and occur naturally in a specific region, ecosystem, or habitat without human intervention. They are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, which makes them beneficial for supporting local biodiversity and requiring less maintenance compared to non-native species. Using native plants in landscaping helps conserve water, reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and provide habitat for native wildlife, such as birds and pollinators.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a native plant specialist?

To thrive as a Native Plant Specialist, a solid background in botany, ecology, and environmental science—often with a relevant degree or certification—is essential. Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS), plant identification tools, and ecological restoration software is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail help specialists collaborate with stakeholders and ensure successful project outcomes. These skills and qualifications are crucial for promoting native plant conservation, restoring habitats, and supporting sustainable land management.

What are typical challenges faced by native plant nursery technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Native Plant Nursery Technicians often encounter challenges such as managing plant health in varying weather conditions, controlling pests without harming native species, and ensuring accurate identification and propagation of diverse native plants. Effective communication and collaboration with horticulturists, landscapers, and environmental scientists are crucial for problem-solving and maintaining healthy plant populations. Staying current with best practices in sustainable cultivation and pest management helps technicians adapt to these challenges and support conservation goals.

What is the difference between Native Plant vs Landscape Designer?

AspectNative PlantLandscape Designer
CredentialsBotanical or horticultural certifications, native plant expertiseDesign certifications, landscape architecture degrees
Work EnvironmentNurseries, conservation projects, ecological restoration sitesDesign firms, outdoor spaces, residential and commercial projects
Industry UsageEnvironmental conservation, native plant landscapingLandscape design, outdoor space planning

Native Plant specialists focus on selecting and maintaining indigenous plants for ecological and conservation purposes, often working in restoration or conservation projects. Landscape Designers create aesthetic outdoor spaces, integrating various plant types, including native plants, to meet client needs. While both roles involve plant knowledge, Native Plant experts specialize in native species and ecological health, whereas Landscape Designers focus on overall design and functionality of outdoor environments.

What are popular job titles related to Native Plant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Native Plant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Native Plant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Native Plant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Native Plant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Native Plant job openings:

Native Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Native Plant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,916 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Individual Placement - Tribal Land Steward

Student Conservation Association

Gaston, OR • On-site

$800/wk

Temporary

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
This Tribal Land Steward position will assist in identifying and facilitating cooperative and collaborative partnership opportunities between USFWS and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde (CTGR) for natural and cultural resources and co-stewardship on Refuges in the Portland-Vancouver region. The member will be engaged in a variety of activities meant to strengthen the partnership between the refuge and the Tribe and to soundly manage and steward our natural resources. Examples include developing a native plant garden at Wapato Lake NWR specifically for Tribal members, assisting in work at the Tribal plant nursery in Grand Ronde, and facilitating a traditional use study at Wapato Lake.
Location
Gaston, OR
Schedule
October 26, 2026 - July 23, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist in the development of a Native Plant Garden, specifically for CTGR members at Wapato Lake NWR, that provides easy access to plant, tend, and gather on these ancestral lands.
  • Develop a first foods mobile exhibit that could be installed at Tualatin River NWR and then be utilized by other venues identified by CTGR.
  • Spend an average of one day a week assisting in various job tasks in the Native Plant Nursery at the CTGR Reservation.
  • Review/Edit DRAFT Kalapuya Guidebook created by SCA intern in 2024 for accuracy, alignment, and appropriateness.
  • Work with FWS Portland-Vancouver Urban Program (PVURP) to support access and engagement of students on refuges through Portland State University's Indigenous Nation Studies Program.
  • Work with CTGR cultural resources staff and FWS CRT to develop or manage the development of a traditional use study and ethnohistory of Wapato Lake.

Marginal Duties
Other duties as assigned by Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde or Refuge Staff e.g. office support, attending events, attending required training.
Required Qualifications
  • Age restrictions as needed for agency or DHA: Age under 30 y.o. as of ____ (up to 35 for veterans)
  • US citizenship or permanent residency. Interns must undergo a government background check if selected.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Confidence initiating communication and taking leadership initiative to follow through on assignments
  • Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of partners
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • A passion for connecting people with nature
  • Ability to creatively solve problems
  • Possess a valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Lived experience as a member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.
  • Knowledge of PNW first foods and native plants
  • Experience with gardening, growing food, plant tending or an interest in learning
  • Previous community engagement or outreach experience (e.g., volunteering, canvassing, mutual aid, relationship-building, etc.)

Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
On-site housing in refuge bunkhouse may be available
Compensation
  • Weekly stipend of $800
  • $500 training/work travel reimbursable allowance (receipt required)

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Recommended
Additional Benefits
Defensive Drive Training
First Aid/CPR
Interpretive Skills
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible
Equal Opportunity Statement
SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.

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