Container Nursery Farm Lead: Grow Quality Plants

Ohio Green Industry Association; Springfield (OH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Means Nursery of Ohio, LLC in Springfield, OH is seeking an experienced Container Nursery Farm Manager to lead daily operations and drive production from potting to shipping. This hands-on leadership role requires a strong background in commercial container production, team development, and operational excellence.

You will oversee planning, scheduling, and performance, coordinate crews and equipment, and ensure crops meet quality and inventory targets while maintaining safety and cost controls.

Qualifications

• Horticulture degree or equivalent production experience.
• 5–10+ years of progressive nursery experience, including management.
• Practical knowledge of irrigation, plant nutrition, pruning, pest and disease management, and seasonal nursery production.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise crews, develop employees, and hold teams accountable with clear, respectful communication.
• Experience managing production schedules, labor needs, budgets, and inventory.
• Sound judgment and the ability to recognize problems, set priorities, and follow through.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and willingness to learn nursery management software.
• A valid driver’s license.
• English and Spanish communication skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage container production: Plan and oversee potting, spacing, pruning, fertilization, weed control, overwintering, and preparation of plants for sale.
• Protect crop quality: Monitor plant health, irrigation, and growing conditions. Coordinate with plant health staff to address pests, diseases, and production problems promptly.
• Lead and develop employees: Help recruit and hire staff; train crew leaders and team members; assign work; and follow up on productivity, quality, and completion.
• Execute production plans: Schedule labor, equipment, materials, and growing space to meet seasonal targets and shipping needs.
• Control costs and reduce losses: Develop and manage departmental budgets, track production performance, and improve methods to reduce plant loss and wasted labor or materials.
• Maintain accurate records: Keep plant inventory and production information current. Oversee attendance, timekeeping, performance reviews, and employee documentation.
• Coordinate across departments: Work closely with management, sales, shipping, propagation, and plant health teams to align crop readiness with customer demand.
• Maintain the farm: Oversee the condition and upkeep of irrigation systems, equipment, growing areas, and facilities.
• Lead safe work practices: Train employees, reinforce safe equipment use and required protective equipment, and maintain clean, organized work areas.

Skills

Leadership

Crew development

Scheduling

Communication

Education

Horticulture degree or equivalent

Tools

Nursery management software

Job description

Means Nursery of Ohio, LLC in Springfield, OH is seeking an experienced Container Nursery Farm Manager to lead daily operations and drive production from potting to shipping. This hands-on leadership role requires a strong background in commercial container production, team development, and operational excellence.

You will oversee planning, scheduling, and performance, coordinate crews and equipment, and ensure crops meet quality and inventory targets while maintaining safety and cost controls.