Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evergreen field of horticulture, the role of nursery and greenhouse managers is more essential than ever.

As the world grows more eco-conscious, the demand for individuals who can nurture, cultivate, and protect our green spaces continues to increase.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a nursery and greenhouse manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of horticulture management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable nursery and greenhouse manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers oversee the operation and maintenance of nurseries, greenhouses, and other facilities where plants are grown for commercial use.

They have wide-ranging responsibilities which include:

• Planning and overseeing the planting, cultivation, and harvesting of plants
• Controlling the environment within the greenhouse to ensure optimal growth conditions
• Identifying, diagnosing, and treating plant diseases and pests
• Maintaining and repairing greenhouse equipment
• Managing the nursery or greenhouse budget, including the purchase of supplies and equipment
• Recruiting, training, and supervising staff
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
• Coordinating sales and marketing activities to promote the nursery or greenhouse’s products
• Interacting with customers, suppliers, and industry professionals

 

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Nursery and Greenhouse Manager to oversee all aspects of our plant production and growth operations.

Key responsibilities include planning, organizing, and managing the production of plants, shrubs, and trees, ensuring plant health, and coordinating sales and distribution.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of horticulture, experience managing a team, and excellent problem-solving skills.

They should also be able to manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring the profitability and sustainability of the nursery and greenhouse operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operations of the nursery and greenhouse, including planting, irrigating, pruning, and harvesting plants.
• Implement and enforce safety and health regulations to protect employees and plants.
• Supervise and train nursery and greenhouse staff, ensuring high levels of productivity and quality.
• Conduct regular inspections to identify plant diseases and pests, taking necessary actions to address issues.
• Manage inventory of plants, seeds, and gardening supplies.
• Coordinate and oversee the sale and distribution of plants and other products.
• Prepare and manage budgets, financial reports, and operational records.
• Coordinate maintenance and repair of nursery and greenhouse equipment and facilities.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to boost sales and attract new customers.
• Stay updated on latest trends and advancements in horticulture and greenhouse management.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Nursery or Greenhouse Manager.
• Knowledge of horticulture, plant diseases, and pest management.
• Experience with nursery and greenhouse equipment and technology.
• Strong managerial and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and physically demanding environments.
• Proficiency in budgeting, financial planning, and resource management.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Degree in horticulture, botany, agriculture, or related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts on plants and gardening supplies

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nursery and Greenhouse Manager
• Work Environment: Outdoor setting with physical labor involved. Some indoor office work required for administrative tasks.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Nursery and Greenhouse Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Do?

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers are typically involved in the cultivation and growth of plants, flowers, trees, shrubs, and other botanical items.

They primarily work in plant nurseries, greenhouses, and the landscaping industry.

They are responsible for overseeing the overall operations of the nursery or greenhouse.

This includes planning, coordinating, and managing the cultivation process of various types of plants.

They ensure that the plants are properly watered, fertilized, and pruned to maintain their health and appearance.

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers also oversee pest and disease management programs to protect the plants.

They determine the best growing conditions for each type of plant and adjust the greenhouse environment accordingly.

They often work with landscape architects and designers, providing them with the plants they need for various projects.

In addition, they may also be responsible for the sales and marketing of the plants, maintaining inventory, and managing staff.

In smaller setups, they might also physically plant, trim, and care for the plants.

In larger operations, they might focus more on administrative tasks and overseeing employees who perform the physical labor.

Ultimately, their goal is to grow healthy, high-quality plants that meet their customers’ needs and expectations.

 

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Nursery and Greenhouse Manager should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• A solid understanding of horticulture and plant care, including knowledge of various plant species, their growth conditions, and care requirements.
• Strong organizational skills for planning the planting, cultivation, and harvesting schedules, as well as managing the inventory of plants, seeds, and gardening tools.
• Problem-solving abilities to swiftly identify and address issues related to plant health, pests, irrigation, and greenhouse equipment.
• Leadership and personnel management skills for supervising and directing the work of greenhouse staff and workers.
• Good physical health and stamina to handle the labor-intensive nature of the job that includes lifting, bending, and standing for prolonged periods.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively instruct the staff, interact with customers, and liaise with suppliers.
• Ability to operate and maintain various gardening and greenhouse equipment like pruning shears, tractors, and irrigation systems.
• Sound knowledge of safety procedures and regulations to ensure a safe working environment in the greenhouse or nursery.

 

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Experience Requirements

For an entry-level role in nursery and greenhouse management, candidates may require 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through part-time employment or internships in horticulture, agriculture, or a related field.

Their experience may include tasks such as tending to plants, identifying plant diseases, implementing pest control, or maintaining greenhouse equipment.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have likely developed a deeper understanding of plant biology and greenhouse operations.

They may have worked in positions such as a Horticulture Technician, Greenhouse Assistant, or Plant Specialist.

These individuals should have experience in managing inventory, planning plant growth schedules, and implementing efficient irrigation and fertilization systems.

Those with over 5 years of experience are often considered for managerial positions.

They may have a background in supervising greenhouse staff, managing large scale nurseries, planning and executing planting and harvesting schedules, and overseeing the health and growth of a wide variety of plant species.

They may also have experience in maintaining and repairing greenhouse structures and systems, ensuring compliance with safety and health regulations, and managing the nursery’s budget and resources.

 

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Education and Training Requirements

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, though many employers prefer individuals with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, or a related field.

These degree programs provide a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, soil science, and pest management, all of which are essential for this role.

In addition to formal education, it is beneficial for Nursery and Greenhouse Managers to have hands-on experience.

Many individuals begin their careers in entry-level horticulture or greenhouse positions, gradually gaining experience and advancing to managerial roles.

While not always mandatory, certification from a horticultural or agricultural association can enhance a candidate’s credibility.

These certifications often require passing an exam and maintaining the certification through ongoing education.

In-depth knowledge about plant diseases, growth patterns, and effective use of pesticides, along with skills in team management, budgeting, and inventory control are also necessary.

To stay updated with the latest trends in horticulture and greenhouse management, ongoing education and participation in industry workshops and seminars could be beneficial.

 

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Salary Expectations

A Nursery and Greenhouse Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) annually.

This salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, education, the size of the nursery or greenhouse, and the geographical location of the establishment.

 

Nursery and Greenhouse Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Nursery and Greenhouse Manager need?

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers need strong organizational skills to oversee the operation of the nursery or greenhouse.

They need knowledge of plants, plant diseases, and pests, as well as the ability to handle machinery used in the field.

They should have good communication skills to effectively coordinate with staff and deal with customers.

Additionally, these managers should have good problem-solving skills to deal with any issues that may arise in the nursery or greenhouse.

 

Do Nursery and Greenhouse Managers need a degree?

While not always necessary, a degree in horticulture, botany, or a related field could be advantageous for a Nursery and Greenhouse Manager.

However, relevant experience in nursery or greenhouse management is often more important.

Training in business management can also be beneficial for those looking to run a successful commercial operation.

 

What should you look for in a Nursery and Greenhouse Manager resume?

A good Nursery and Greenhouse Manager resume should demonstrate a strong understanding of horticulture and plant care.

It should show experience in a similar role, with responsibilities such as managing staff, ordering supplies, and maintaining plant health.

Certifications in horticulture, agriculture, or business management can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Nursery and Greenhouse Manager?

A good Nursery and Greenhouse Manager will have a passion for plants and a deep understanding of horticulture.

They are organized and able to manage multiple tasks at once, from overseeing plant health to managing staff schedules.

Excellent problem-solving skills are necessary to deal with any issues that arise.

They should also have strong communication skills, allowing them to effectively coordinate with staff and interact with customers.

 

What are the main challenges of being a Nursery and Greenhouse Manager?

Nursery and Greenhouse Managers face several challenges, including dealing with plant diseases and pests, managing staff, and ensuring that the plants are growing under optimal conditions.

They also have to manage the business aspect of the nursery or greenhouse, which can involve budgeting, record-keeping, and inventory management.

Weather conditions can also pose a challenge, as changes in temperature or humidity can affect plant growth.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug deep into the roots of what it truly means to be a Nursery and Greenhouse Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about planting seeds.

It’s about nurturing the green future, one seedling at a time.

With our comprehensive nursery and greenhouse manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Cultivate your knowledge further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every seedling is part of a larger ecosystem.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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