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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Greenhouse Manager

💰 $65,000 - $95,000

AgricultureHorticultureManagementOperations

🎯 Role Definition

The Greenhouse Manager is the operational and horticultural heart of the facility, a leadership role responsible for the entire lifecycle of our crops. This individual masterfully blends the science of horticulture with the art of management, ensuring that plant production meets the highest standards of quality, yield, and efficiency. They are accountable for steering all greenhouse activities, from strategic crop planning and environmental control to team development and budget management. Ultimately, the Greenhouse Manager is the key driver of the greenhouse's success, translating strategic goals into thriving, tangible results.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Assistant Greenhouse Manager
  • Head Grower or Lead Grower
  • Horticulturist with supervisory experience

Advancement To:

  • Director of Horticulture
  • General Manager of Operations
  • Regional Agricultural Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Nursery Manager
  • Agricultural Research & Development Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Oversee all aspects of greenhouse production, from propagation and planting to growth, pest management, and harvesting, ensuring optimal plant health and quality.
  • Develop and implement detailed growing plans, schedules, and protocols to meet production targets, quality standards, and sales forecasts.
  • Manage and meticulously control the greenhouse environment, including temperature, humidity, lighting, and irrigation systems, using both manual and automated climate control software.
  • Lead, train, and mentor a team of growers, technicians, and laborers, managing work schedules, assigning tasks, and conducting performance evaluations to foster a productive and safe work environment.
  • Implement and manage a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, including scouting, identifying pests and diseases, and applying biological, cultural, and chemical controls responsibly.
  • Manage inventory of all growing supplies, including seeds, growing media, fertilizers, pesticides, and equipment, and oversee procurement to ensure timely availability and cost-effectiveness.
  • Develop and manage the greenhouse operations budget, tracking expenses, analyzing variances, and identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
  • Ensure strict adherence to all company policies, industry regulations, and government standards, including Worker Protection Standards (WPS) and food safety protocols (where applicable).
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of all growing activities, including crop schedules, chemical applications, environmental data, and production yields for analysis and reporting.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve any cultivation or operational issues that arise, from equipment malfunctions to crop health problems, implementing corrective actions swiftly.
  • Collaborate with research and development teams to conduct trials for new plant varieties, growing techniques, and products to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Coordinate with sales and logistics departments to ensure harvested products meet quality specifications and are prepared for shipping on schedule.
  • Oversee the routine maintenance, repair, and calibration of all greenhouse equipment and infrastructure, including irrigation systems, climate control computers, and ventilation.
  • Champion and enforce a culture of safety, providing regular training on equipment operation, chemical handling, and emergency procedures to minimize workplace incidents.
  • Analyze production data to identify trends, measure key performance indicators (KPIs), and generate insightful reports for senior management on overall greenhouse performance.
  • Stay current with the latest advancements in horticulture, cultivation technology, and industry best practices through continuous learning and professional networking.

Secondary Functions

  • Participate in strategic planning sessions to contribute horticultural expertise to the long-term goals and expansion plans of the organization.
  • Assist in the design and commissioning of new greenhouse facilities or the retrofitting of existing structures to improve efficiency and capacity.
  • Represent the company at industry trade shows, conferences, and workshops to build professional networks and enhance brand reputation.
  • Support the Human Resources department in the recruitment, interviewing, and hiring process for new greenhouse staff.
  • Liaise with vendors and suppliers to negotiate pricing, evaluate new products, and maintain strong, collaborative professional relationships.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Deep expertise in horticulture science, plant physiology, and the management of soil and soilless media.
  • Proficiency in operating and programming environmental control systems (e.g., Priva, Hoogendoorn, Argus).
  • Comprehensive knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and compliance with Worker Protection Standards (WPS).
  • Hands-on experience with various irrigation systems, including drip, ebb and flow, and overhead sprinklers, and associated water quality management.
  • Strong understanding of plant nutrition, fertilizer formulation, and the management of nutrient solutions, including EC and pH monitoring.
  • Competency in data analysis and using software like Microsoft Excel or specialized farm management platforms to track and report on production metrics.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional leadership and team management abilities, with a talent for mentoring, motivating, and developing staff at all levels.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to make sound decisions, often under pressure.
  • Excellent organizational and strategic planning capabilities, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Clear and effective communication skills, capable of conveying complex information to diverse audiences, from laborers to executive leadership.
  • Financial acumen with practical experience in budget development, management, and cost control.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field or an equivalent combination of formal training and extensive hands-on experience.

Preferred Education:

Master's Degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related discipline.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Horticulture
  • Plant Science
  • Agronomy
  • Agricultural Business Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

5-7 years of progressive experience in a commercial greenhouse environment, including at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or management capacity.

Preferred:

Demonstrated experience managing large-scale (e.g., 5+ acres) greenhouse operations, particularly with the specific crops relevant to the company (e.g., ornamentals, vegetables, cannabis). Possession of a state-issued Pesticide Applicator License is often highly desirable.

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