Section Grower (Horticulture)

Altman Specialty Plants, LLC.; Granville (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Altman Specialty Plants seeks a Section Grower (Horticulture) in Granville, IL. The role oversees planting, cultivation, and harvesting within a section of an agricultural operation, collaborating with agronomists and farm managers to optimize yield and sustainability.

You will monitor crop health, manage irrigation and soil amendments, and lead field crews while ensuring safety and environmental compliance. A strong background in plant biology and pest management is valued.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Strong organizational and communication skills are essential.
• Basic knowledge of plant biology, soil science, and pest management is expected.
• Ability to operate farm machinery and irrigation equipment safely.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute planting schedules and crop rotations within the assigned section to optimize yield and soil health.
• Monitor crop growth and health regularly, addressing pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
• Manage irrigation systems and soil amendments to maintain optimal growing conditions.
• Supervise and coordinate daily activities of field workers, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Maintain records of crop progress, inputs, and environmental conditions for decision-making.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Plant biology knowledge

Soil science knowledge

Pest management knowledge

Farm machinery operation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or higher in Agriculture or Horticulture

Tools

Farm machinery

Job description

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Section Grower (Horticulture)

Salary Admin - Granville Full Time Exempt Grainville, IL, US

About Company:

Altman Specialty Plants: Cultivating Growth & Innovation

Founded in 1975, Altman Specialty Plants has grown to become the largest horticultural grower in the United States. With a passion for plants, our commitment to our customers and to provide a safe and engaging work environment; we supply a diverse selection of succulents, annuals, perennials, and edibles to major retailers.

Why Join Us?

We believe in cultivating success, not just in plants but in people. Our team is made up of passionate individuals who thrive in a collaborative and dynamic environment. Whether you're in production, sales, logistics, research, or in a support function, you'll be part of a company that values growth, creativity, and sustainability.

As a forward-thinking business, we invest in the latest technologies to make our facilities more efficient, more advanced and more sustainable, from the latest automation technology to advanced research in genetics, breeding, renewable energy and permaculture. Altman Specialty Plants is the perfect place to plant your roots and grow with us!

Thank you for your interest in employment with us!

About the Role:

The Section Grower plays a critical role in managing and optimizing the growth of crops within a designated section of an agricultural operation. This position is responsible for overseeing planting, cultivation, and harvesting activities to ensure high-quality yield and sustainable farming practices. The Section Grower collaborates closely with agronomists, farm managers, and labor teams to implement effective crop management strategies and troubleshoot any issues related to plant health or environmental conditions. This role requires a deep understanding of crop cycles, soil health, pest management, and irrigation techniques to maximize productivity while maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Ultimately, the Section Grower contributes to the overall success and profitability of the agricultural enterprise by ensuring that the section under their care meets or exceeds production goals.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 2 years of experience in crop production or agricultural operations.
• Basic knowledge of plant biology, soil science, and pest management.
• Ability to operate farm machinery and irrigation equipment safely.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate degree or higher in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Experience with precision agriculture technologies and data-driven crop management.
• Familiarity with sustainable farming practices and organic certification standards.
• Leadership experience in supervising agricultural teams.
• Certification in pesticide application or crop management.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and execute planting schedules and crop rotations within the assigned section to optimize yield and soil health.
• Monitor crop growth and health regularly, identifying and addressing issues such as pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
• Manage irrigation systems and soil amendments to maintain optimal growing conditions.
• Supervise and coordinate daily activities of field workers, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and efficient task completion.
• Maintain accurate records of crop progress, inputs used, and environmental conditions to inform decision-making and reporting.
• Collaborate with agronomy and management teams to implement best practices and adapt to changing environmental or market conditions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, including pesticide application and environmental protection standards.

Skills:

The Section Grower utilizes their knowledge of plant biology and soil science daily to monitor crop health and make informed decisions about cultivation practices. Strong organizational skills are essential for planning planting schedules, managing resources, and coordinating field teams effectively. Communication skills enable the grower to collaborate with agronomists, management, and laborers to ensure smooth operations and address challenges promptly. Technical skills, including the operation of farm machinery and irrigation systems, are applied regularly to maintain optimal growing conditions. Additionally, problem-solving abilities are critical for adapting to environmental changes and implementing sustainable practices that enhance crop yield and quality.