Head Grower (In Training) APPLY NOW

Job Title: Head Grower (In Training)

Position: Permanent Full-Time

Department: Production

Reports To: Head Grower (Current), Owner & General Manager

Job Description:

This position is responsible for growing and maintaining Parkway Garden Centre’s horticultural product and producing retail sales. The ideal candidate will have a passion for horticulture and a strong understanding of plant cultivation practices. This role involves hands-on work in the field, requiring physical stamina and the ability to operate various types of machinery and equipment. The Head Grower (In Training) will be responsible for ensuring the health and productivity of crops while maintaining high standards of quality.

Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Carry out cultural practices such as watering, fertilizer application, transplanting and potting independently using crop production schedules.
2. Carry out production of plant material from seed, plug, cutting or bare root.
3. Lead and provide continuous on-the-job training to the assistant grower and production team.
4. Organize production staff to carry out daily and long term goals.
5. Set up retail space for maximum optimization of greenhouse space and aesthetics.
6. Monitor the irrigation system and perform water testing as necessary.
7. Coordinate the purchasing of biological insects, plants, fertilizers, etc.
8. Conduct regular inspections of crops and growing conditions to identify pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies, taking appropriate action when necessary.
9. Customer service, making connections with our clientele and addressing their needs.
10. Collaborate with team members to develop best practices for crop management and sustainability.
11. Other tasks and responsibilities as assigned by management.

Qualifications:

• Degree or diploma in Horticulture or related field is required.
• Willingness to learn is essential.
• 1 Year work experience in a horticultural setting is required.
• Must have a valid G class Ontario drivers license.
• Must maintain an active Ontario Pesticide License.
• Strong plant, pest and disease identification and knowledge.
• Strong mechanical knowledge with the ability to troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed.
• Familiarity with heavy equipment operation is a plus.
• Ability to provide work direction and leadership to staff.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds) consistently throughout the workday.
• Knowledge of irrigation techniques and garden maintenance practices is beneficial.
• Basic math skills for record keeping and calculations related to crop management.
• A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team are essential for success in this role. 

Work & Sensory Environment:

• Required to stand for long periods of time during shift.
• Regularly required to perform repetitive and/or precise hand/finger movements.
• Required to lift, carry or handle heavy objects up to 50lbs.
• Tolerance to heat is required due to greenhouse setting.
• Flexibility with schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays.
• During our busiest season from mid-April to mid-June, employees may be required to work 6 days a week, but will not exceed 48 hours/week.

Benefits and Perks:

• Group RRSP and matching
• Health coverage
• Dental and Vision coverage
• Other benefit coverage
• Employee discount

Join us in cultivating a thriving agricultural environment where your skills can flourish!