Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Head Grower will manage the daily production of any and all vegetables produced in the Aquaponic greenhouse. Head Grower will diagnose and evaluate plant diseases / disorders and recommend preventative and curative treatments as well as conduct research trials on all areas of produce production.
This is a hands-on position that will also supervise a small staff. All operations will be done in accordance with the company HACCP and food safety plans, strict biosecurity measures, and standard operating procedures. Along with the daily duties mentioned above, the Head Grower will be responsible for managing all record keeping within the greenhouse, including but not limited to, plant and harvest data, water quality data, and water use data.
- Bachelor's degree, preferably in biology, chemistry or plant science. Master’s degree ideal
- Three (3) to five (5) years hands-on horticulture experience, preferably in a hydroponic setting. Experience with flowering / fruiting plants ideal
- Previous management / supervisory role with the ability to effectively manage a team of no less than five (5) team members
- Knowledge and ability to conduct accurate research trials using basic experimental design and statistical analysis
- Experience working with Microsoft Excel; Microsoft PowerPoint; Microsoft Word; and Internet software
- Ability to effectively prioritize and work to schedule
- Able to function effectively with minimal supervision in an entrepreneurial / start-up environment
- Individual must be available 24/7/365 to respond in case of emergency
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills both verbal and written
- Oversee Horticulture Operations
- Daily assessment of crops to identify any disease, insect problem or abnormalities. Diagnose plant diseases and disorders. Communicate with production personnel to understand production conditions and practices to accurately diagnose problems
- Manage integrated pest management protocols and further develop and implement new protocols as necessary
- Plan and conduct ongoing variety trials related to all aspects of current produce operations that will improve product quality, improve product readiness, or reduce production costs
- Conduct trials according to generally accepted research protocols
- Provide expertise and training to the Production Department in the form of teaching sessions and materials
- Obtain and maintain applicable certifications in HACCP, SQF practices and quality control techniques
- Manage process of obtaining USDA Certified Organic designation and maintain certification going forward
- Manage R & D (Research & Deployment) Program
- Manage R & D program to launch new products in a timely and cost-effective manner consistent with established brand guidelines
- Evaluate and test multiple growing substrates and hydroponic grow methodologies to determine which is most viable for each product line
- Research and test both produce and non-food plants to determine efficacy of growing in an Aquaponic environment
