Apprentice Grower — Hydroponic Greens & R&D

Brightfarms Inc; Kendall Township (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

BrightFarms is seeking an Apprentice Grower for our Yorkville, IL greenhouse to assist in managing the production of hydroponic greens at our 8-acre facility. The Apprentice Grower reports to the Head Grower.

The ideal candidate has 2 years of greenhouse experience and a 2-year degree in horticulture; GMPs, IPM, and food safety knowledge are required; travel to other greenhouses may be needed.

Qualifications

• 2 years’ experience in greenhouse production or similar.
• Minimum of a 2-year degree in horticulture and/or related sciences.
• Experience with GMPs, food safety, and IPM.
• Hoogendoorn or PRIVA experience is a plus.
• Preference for experience in controlled environment agriculture and hydroponic production of food crops.

Responsibilities

• Climate management including alarms, lighting, and environmental controls.
• Water management: nutrient balance, pH, temperature, aeration and irrigation systems.
• Crop management: scouting for disease, nutrient issues, pests, yield impacts, and data collection; complete daily checklists and maintenance.
• IDPM: ensure greenhouse is free of pests and disease using BrightFarms’ protocols.
• R&D: track projects to optimize yields and quality of existing products and develop new products.
• Cleanliness and food safety: maintain a neat greenhouse facility and ensure compliance.

Skills

Greenhouse production experience

GMPs/food safety/IPM knowledge

Controlled environment agriculture

Hoogendoorn/PRIVA experience

Education

2-year degree in horticulture or related sciences

Tools

Hoogendoorn

PRIVA

Job description

BrightFarms is seeking an Apprentice Grower for our Yorkville, IL greenhouse to assist in managing the production of hydroponic greens at our 8-acre facility. The Apprentice Grower reports to the Head Grower.

The ideal candidate has 2 years of greenhouse experience and a 2-year degree in horticulture; GMPs, IPM, and food safety knowledge are required; travel to other greenhouses may be needed.