Posting Title: Greenhouse & Field Production Manager
Job Title:
Head Grower / Greenhouse & Field Production Manager
Company Summary:
Pioneer Gardens Inc., (PGI) is a leading producer of high quality field-grown bare root perennials, greenhouse grown perennial plugs and green roof modules. We sell to wholesale growers, finishers, and nurseries throughout North America. Situated in the beautiful Pioneer Valley, on the outskirts of Deerfield, Massachusetts, the company was founded in 1996 with 1 acre plot of land, to produce and market high-quality perennial starter plants. PGI has grown into a 35-45 person operation that includes 40 acres of field production and 1.5 acres of greenhouse production. We offer a comprehensive product line with many proprietary genetics. PGI works with a network of partners to bring new genetics to market and innovate perennial production.
Position Overview:
The Production Manager is responsible for the daily operations involved with running the greenhouse and overseeing field production activities. The Production Manager plans, organizes, directs, controls, and coordinates activities of workers engaged in propagating, cultivating, harvesting and storing horticultural perennial plants.
Summary of Main Responsibilities:
- Plan, control and manage all growing processes and resources
- Oversee greenhouse propagation by cuttings, URC and root division.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records on plant production schedules and inventory.
- Tour growing areas to observe work being done, to inspect crops, and to evaluate plant and soil conditions.
- Identify problems occurring with plants, such as diseases, weeds, and insect pests. Engage in plant health management by scouting, IPM and use of BCA’s and conventional pesticides, PGR’s, control of greenhouse climate and nutritional practices.
- Create and oversee department budget. Make recommendations and provide cost estimates to senior leadership involving the purchasing of needed materials, equipment, or other resources.
- Lead the purchasing process for cuttings, plant nutrients, disease controls and greenhouse equipment.
- Develop the skills and knowledge of greenhouse and field production staff.
- Inspect greenhouse facilities and equipment for signs of disrepair, and ensure maintenance work is carried out.
- Explore ways to improve processes for more efficient growth, and advise on optimal growing conditions.
- Explain, champion and help enforce safety regulations and policies. Ensure that growing operations are compliant with environmental regulations.
- This position works closely with other team leaders and staff members to ensure greenhouse and field operations run smoothly.
- Assign work schedules and duties to greenhouse staff and supervise their work.
- Ensure your team is aware of and adheres to organizational policies and procedures.
- Hold regular team meetings and timely business updates and/or operational updates to your team.
- Ensure greenhouse staff and field staff are cross-trained in functional responsibilities to ensure teams can cover cross-functional responsibilities, if needed.
Skills, Knowledge and Abilities Needed:
Knowledge of the stages of plant life and diseases
Skill to plan, organize and prioritize work activities for yourself and others.
Ability to analyze information and evaluate results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Ability to develop, mentor and motivate direct reports.
Ability to develop and maintain cooperative relationships with members of other teams to help ensure smooth cross-functional operations.
Interpersonal relationship skills.
Open communication skills
Goal-oriented Self-motivated personality
Education Required:
B.S. Degree in Horticulture or a related field, plus 5 years of experience.
H.S. Diploma and 10+ years of horticulture and/or growing experience.
Have any questions or wish to apply? Please email arjen@pioneergardens.com for more information
