Container Nursery Production Manager / Farm Manager

Container Nursery Farm Manager

Company: Means Nursery of Ohio, LLC
Location: Springfield, OH
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: based on experience

About the Position

We’re seeking an experienced Container Nursery Farm Manager to lead daily operations at our Ohio nursery. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who understands commercial plant production, develops strong crews, and takes pride in growing quality plants.

You’ll oversee production from potting through shipping, coordinate people and equipment, and turn seasonal production goals into clear daily priorities. Success means healthy crops, accurate inventory, efficient operations, and a team that knows what’s expected and has the support to deliver.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

What You’ll Bring

• Horticulture degree or equivalent production experience.
• 5–10+ years of progressive nursery experience, including management, with a strong background in commercial container production.
• 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.

Work Environment and Schedule

This position combines outdoor farm supervision, hands-on work, and office responsibilities. Applicants should be comfortable working in changing Ohio weather conditions and available for early mornings, extended hours, and weekends when seasonal production, irrigation, or shipping needs require.

Essential duties include prolonged standing and walking, bending, working around nursery equipment, and lifting or moving materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with reasonable accommodation as needed.

Why Join Us

Take a leadership role with direct influence over plant quality, farm performance, and employee development. We’re looking for someone who wants to take ownership of daily operations, improve how work gets done, and build a dependable team.

To apply: Submit your resume to sgreisen@meansnursery.com along with a brief description of your container nursery experience, the size of teams you’ve managed, and the production responsibilities you’ve held.

Means Nursery of Ohio, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.