Lead Grower na The Plant Company

Description

Company Profile

The Plant Company (TPC) is a fast-growing, innovative horticultural business operating in a newly expanded 10-acre facility. With the completion of Phase 2, we’ve added a state-of-the-art greenhouse and production barn—both purpose-built for the controlled-environment, sustainable production of premium tropical foliage.

The ideal candidate will play a key role in driving our continued growth and daily success as part of the nationally recognized Proven Winners® leafjoy® brand. We’re proud of our inclusive, growth-oriented culture and operate on EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), which shapes how we solve problems, lead teams, and scale effectively. As a valued team member, you’ll have the opportunity to make a direct impact, contribute your perspective, and grow with a company that’s expanding rapidly and is nationally recognized.

We believe that “together we grow stronger”, which applies to employees, vendors and of course customers. The four core values that identify this company are: 

1. Caring About People, Plants, and Process

2. Growth Oriented

3. Customer First

4. "Can Do" Attitude

Position Overview

The Lead Grower is responsible for overseeing daily greenhouse growing operations to ensure plant health, quality, and productivity. This role supervises growing staff, manages crop schedules, maintains environmental controls, and ensures compliance with safety and agricultural standards. The Lead Grower also serves as a technical resource and leader, working closely with the Greenhouse Growing Manager to drive continuous improvement in plant production and operational efficiency. 

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Supervision

 • Supervise, train, and evaluate employees in the growing department.
• Schedule staff and oversee timekeeping and payroll accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with safety policies, WPS (Worker Protection Standards), and training requirements.
• Monitor work performance for efficiency, quality, and adherence to standards.
• Serve as a liaison on the Safety Committee and coordinate corrective actions when needed.
• Communicate effectively across departments to align operations and address issues.

Crop & Horticultural Management

 • Oversee daily crop care including propagation, irrigation, fertilization, pruning, and pest management.
• Identify and address plant health issues including pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Maintain Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and ensure proper pesticide application.
• Record all inputs and crop treatments (fertilizer, PGRs, biologicals, etc.).
• Monitor and maintain irrigation systems, solenoids, and environmental controls.
• Support planning and scheduling for planting, harvesting, and space utilization.

Technical & Recordkeeping

 • Monitor and adjust climate control and irrigation computer systems.
• Report pH, EC, and environmental readings as required.
• Track daily crop metrics, labor data, and quality reports.
• Troubleshoot minor technical issues and escalate complex problems to the Growing Manager or Facilities team.
• Maintain accurate inventory of supplies and growing materials.

Safety, Compliance & Greenhouse Maintenance

 • Ensure compliance with OSHA, WPS, and company safety protocols.
• Maintain sanitation and organization in growing areas.
• Post and observe re-entry interval (REI) signage as required.
• Support frost patrol, winterization, and de-winterization activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to logistics, layout, and process efficiency. 

Required Skills & Abilities

 • Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proactive problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Solid knowledge of greenhouse operations, horticulture, and IPM.
• Detail-oriented with high standards for quality and safety.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; familiarity with environmental control systems preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Must obtain Virginia Pesticide Applicator License within six (6) months of employment. 

Education & Experience

 • Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, or a related field (experience may substitute for education).
• Minimum of three (3) years of relevant greenhouse or horticultural experience.
• Proven ability to manage irrigation, fertility, and pest management programs.
• Working knowledge of OSHA and WPS regulations.

Physical Requirements

 • Ability to bend, lift, twist, and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently.
• Comfortable working in greenhouse environments with heat, humidity, and agricultural chemicals (respirator required).
• Flexibility for extended hours, weekends, or rotating shifts as needed.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.