Grower

BrightFarms; Kendall Township (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leader in indoor farming is seeking a Grower to manage greenhouse operations and ensure optimal growing conditions. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in horticulture and have experience in commercial plant production. Responsibilities include managing environmental controls and working closely with the agriculture director to optimize yields. Join a mission-driven team at a pioneering company in sustainable farming.

Qualifications

• 3 years of experience in commercial production of plants using soilless culture in environmentally controlled greenhouses.
• Ability to obtain a state pesticide applicator license.

Responsibilities

• Manage all environmental controls of the greenhouse.
• Ensure the product is free of insect pest and disease.
• Maintain a neat and orderly greenhouse facility.

Skills

Leadership

Detail oriented

Data-driven

Communication skills

Strong computer skills

Education

4-year degree in horticulture or related sciences

Tools

Priva greenhouse environmental control software

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

PowerPoint

Access

Job description

Join to apply for the Grower role at BrightFarms.

BrightFarms is a national leader in the booming indoor farming industry, transforming how produce is grown and delivered with an expanding network of eight high-tech, sustainable hydroponic farms. From seed to leaf we grow lettuce smarter, with less space, no pesticides and protected inside, so it’s better for the planet and for people. BrightFarms’ fresh lettuce options are available in more than 4,500 retail stores across the East Coast, Midwest, and South. Our Yorkville, Illinois farm is our largest greenhouse in Illinois, at around 480,000 square feet, with an annual production of around 6 million pounds of leafy greens.

Responsibilities

• Manage all environmental controls of the greenhouse using Priva greenhouse environmental control software
• Work closely with BrightFarms Director of Agriculture to determine ideal computer set points and ensure proper conditions are achieved
• Control all parameters related to the maintenance of healthy and productive production ponds: fertility and pH management, thermal management, pond aeration, pond sanitation, pond mechanicals
• Ensure the product is free of insect pest and disease
• Work closely with the Director of Agriculture to develop, implement, and maintain a biologically based IPM program and any chemical applications required
• Scouting and record keeping
• Work with the BrightFarms Product Manager and Director of Agriculture to design, implement and track R&D projects to increase and optimize yields and to develop new products for the sales portfolio
• Support the General Manager and be accountable for revenue, operating expenses, quality, and the operation of the facility, including: production, planning and reporting, plant performance, labor management, balancing inputs, throughput and demand, and facilities maintenance
• Maintain a neat and orderly greenhouse facility
• Ensure that the food safety program meets all compliance requirements
• Collaborate with the General Manager and other management to develop and execute strategies to achieve BrightFarms’ mission

The ideal candidate:

• 4-year degree in horticulture or related sciences
• 3 years of experience in commercial production of plants using soilless culture in environmentally controlled greenhouses
• Strong leadership, ability to Lead by example and set high standards for quality, efficiency, productivity, and behavior
• Detail oriented and data-driven
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; curious, self-starter
• Strong computer skills – Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook; PowerPoint and Access knowledge beneficial
• Ability to obtain a state pesticide applicator license

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience in controlled environment agriculture and hydroponic production of food crops
• Experience with biological control agents (BCA’s) and knowledge of IPM
• A sincere passion for the BrightFarms mission

Come grow with us - the future is BRIGHT!

BrightFarms is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Other
• Industries: Food and Beverage Manufacturing

We’re excited to help you grow. If you’re interested in farming opportunities, BrightFarms has multiple roles across locations.