Garden Center - Horticultural Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Nursery Manager Job Description

Job Summary The Nursery Manager is responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and profitability of the plant nursery. This role requires a background in horticulture, effective leadership skills, and business experience to ensure high-quality plant production, a well-maintained facility, excellent customer service, and efficient staff management.

Key Responsibilities

Horticultural & Plant Care

• Develop and implement watering schedules
• Monitor plant health, diagnose, and treat issues related to pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
• Responsible for proper soil health, potting, and transplanting procedures.
• Ensure all plant material is correctly labeled, inventoried, and maintained in saleable condition.

Operations & Management

• Develop and manage the annual nursery budget, including forecasting sales and controlling expenses.
• Procure and manage inventory of all stock, including plants, soil, fertilizers, chemicals, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain accurate records for inventory, sales, production, staff scheduling.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of nursery facilities, equipment, and irrigation systems.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including health, safety, and environmental standards.

Personnel & Leadership

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise all nursery staff, including delegating duties and creating work schedules (rosters).
• Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and performance evaluations for team members.
• Foster a positive, safe, and efficient work environment.
• Lead by example, performing hands-on nursery work as needed.

Sales & Customer Service (Applicable for Retail/Wholesale Nurseries)

• Create attractive and educational plant displays and ensure the facility is tidy and visually appealing.
• Assist customers with plant selection, provide expert advice on plant care, soil, and garden products.
• Manage the point-of-sale (POS) system and handle daily cash management procedures.
• Develop and execute sales and marketing strategies to drive profitability.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agricultural Sciences, Plant Science, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Experience: 3+ years of progressive experience in commercial nursery or greenhouse management, including supervisory experience.
• Knowledge: Detailed knowledge of plant biology, pathology, common pests, fertilizers, and growing techniques specific to the local climate.
• Skills: Excellent managerial, leadership, and communication skills. Strong business acumen and experience with budgeting and inventory management software.
• Physical: Ability to lift heavy objects (e.g., bags of soil, plants), stand/walk for long periods, and work outdoors in various weather conditions.