Garden Center - Nursery Manager

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.