Section Grower 3

SECTION GROWER 3

Job Code:

SG40WT-2026-MB-2044

Reports To:

Assistant Head Grower

Job Class:

FLSA:

Location:

Watsonville CA At Smith Gardens, our business is growing: Growing annuals and perennials, growing our relationships with partners, growing our love of gardening, and growing our team's passion and expertise in horticulture—all for the benefit of the consumers who love to garden. Whether we are out in the greenhouses or working in the office, our Smith Gardens team is dedicated to delivering the healthiest plants on the market for the biggest impact on our partners' shelves and in our customers' gardens. One of our Core Values is

People:

"We value and respect all people. We are focused on developing teams and growing the potential of individuals." We encourage personal growth and continued education so that each member of our Smith Gardens family succeeds. We take as much care cultivating the ecosystem of our offices as we do our gardens. Achieving the quality we strive for in our products and culture is truly a team effort, and every role is vital. Nurturing growth, collaboration and community is in our nature. Put down roots at any of our five locations and unearth your full potential. We have an exciting opportunity for a Section Grower 3 to join our Production Department. Responsible for overseeing crop decisions (irrigation, fertilization, crop placement…) in coordination with assistant head grower. Assists in maintaining environment and sanitation. Develops team members.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Oversee indoor production of all indoor crops of 8 acres or 12 acres of field production. This includes seed production, vegetative liners, tissue culture, stock, trials and finished containers. Lead a team of 5-10 people, training and developing staff as well as directing activities. Maintain safe work environment and promote company policies while leading by example. Establish and implement SOPs for key crops. Direct irrigation based on a 1-5 water scale. Has a clear understanding of soil fertility and pH. Scout crops for and identify pests and pathogens. Assist IPM in applying pesticides when needed. Adjust & maintain misting schedules of propagation areas. Maintain crop records in propagation. Communicate obstacles to assistant head grower. Ability to work extended hours, holidays, and weekends as required. Assists AHG in monitoring the greenhouse environment and suggesting changes where needed. Oversees county reporting of pesticide use and assists in WPS training plan where needed.

COMPETENCIES

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written with varying personalities. Bilingual (Spanish) preferred, both verbal and written. Ability to monitor greenhouse environmental controls to ensure that they are both, correct and functioning correctly. Strong knowledge of growth regulator rates on annuals, perennials and tropicals. Strong knowledge of injector systems (Anderson / Dosatron) and basic troubleshooting. Customer service driven (internal / external). Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize. Proficient computer and Microsoft office skills.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Associate's level degree or higher in Horticulture or related field preferred, two or more years work experience, or an equivalent combination. Two or more years supervisory or leadership experience preferred. A valid pesticide applicator's license must be obtained within 60 days of starting this position and kept current. Experience with a broad range of horticultural crops including annuals, perennials and tropicals. Experience with propagation from seed, vegetative cuttings and tissue culture. Experienced in finishing both annuals and perennials for the market.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work indoors and outdoors, in seasonal temperatures and conditions. Lift up to 50 pounds in an environment that is often hot. Continuously walk, stand, bend, kneel (and remain working below knee-level) as well as reaching overhead, and from side to side for long periods of time.

BENEFITS

Medical/Dental/Vision insurance and Health Savings Accounts (HSA's) with employer contributions 401K retirement plan options with employer match Paid holidays Paid Time Off- Full-time employees accrue immediately! Annual Profit share Generous Employee Flower/Plant Discount Program Development opportunities Paid Time off for volunteering and community service Employee Assistance Program Wellness program Fun employee events throughout the year

PAY RANGE

$29-$32 per hour Pay rate is determined by various components including, but not limited to, experience, skills, qualifications, relevant education, certifications, seniority, and location. The pay rate is one component of the total compensation package. Other rewards vary by position and location. To learn more about our company & view a more detailed job description, visit our website at smithgardens.com/careers. We look forward to hearing from you! Smith Gardens provides equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law.