Head Grower - Glen Williams

Employment Opportunity

Sheridan Nurseries Glen Williams is actively searching for a: 

Head Grower

Permanent, Full Time

About the Job:

The Head Grower is responsible for overseeing all aspects of growing at our Glen Williams sites. As the Head Grower, you will lead the growing team and manage all technical aspects of plant production in our nursery. Your role is critical to ensuring the production of high-quality plants while optimizing quality and productivity. This position requires strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and deep horticultural expertise. 

Technical Expertise & Management:

• Serve as the technical lead on all aspects of growing media, plant fertility, irrigation, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to maintain plant health and optimize productivity.
• Implement best practices to ensure the consistent production of high-quality plants that meet readiness targets.

Leadership & Team Development:

• Lead and mentor a team of growers, setting goals, inspiring team members, and ensuring accountability to achieve operational excellence.
• Provide ongoing skill development and performance feedback to support team growth.

Quality Control:

• Oversee plant health monitoring, addressing diseases, pests, and nutrient deficiencies promptly.
• Ensure quality control measures are consistently applied to meet production standards.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Collaborate with regulatory agencies such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to ensure compliance with regulations and certifications.
• Lead the Clean Plants Program to maintain regulatory standards.

Research & Development:

• Stay current with the latest horticultural practices, technologies, and industry trends to improve growing techniques and nursery productivity.
• Lead new product trials in collaboration with Sales, Marketing, and Category teams to bring innovative products to market.

Health & Safety:

• Promote and enforce safety regulations, ensuring a safe working environment for all nursery staff.
• Identify and mitigate potential hazards related to equipment, chemicals, or work processes.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Foster effective communication and collaboration with other departments such as Distribution, Sales, and Retail Operations.

Additional Duties:

• Assist with other duties and projects as assigned, adapting to the evolving needs of the nursery.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND ENVIRONMENT:

• Flexibility to work various shifts, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during seasonal peaks.
• The position requires extended periods of walking and standing, as well as lifting up to 50 lbs and working outdoors in various weather conditions.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field
• In-depth knowledge of growing techniques, including growing media, plant fertility, irrigation, crop cycles, and Integrated Pest Management
• Ability to lead and develop a team, fostering a culture of accountability and operational excellence
• Proven experience as a Grower in a nursery or greenhouse environment
• Focuses on optimizing work processes and seeking ways to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
• Understanding of budget management, financial analysis, and forecasting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams
• Ability to make sound decisions quickly, balancing analysis, experience, and judgment.
• Approaches new projects and responsibilities with urgency and enthusiasm. 
• Dedication to producing high-quality plants and maintaining production standards.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe working environment and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
• Proficiency in record-keeping, inventory management software, and MS Office Suite
• Valid class G Ontario driver’s license
• Must be legally eligible to work in Canada

• Please be advised that being fully vaccinated for Covid-19 is a condition of employment (subject to any accommodation required under the Ontario Human Rights Code)

We thank all applicants for their interest however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

If selected, please advise if you require special accommodation to attend the interview.