Nursery Operations Manager (Startup)

Job Overview Evergreen Acres in Spring Lake, MI is in the early stages of building a wholesale nursery from the ground up. With land in place and greenhouse construction underway, we are looking for the right person to help turn this into a fully operational and profitable nursery. This is a rare opportunity to be involved from the beginning and play a key role in building, organizing, and running the entire operation. This is not a maintenance role—this is a build-and-lead opportunity. We are seeking a highly motivated, experienced individual to work alongside ownership and an established industry consultant (former owner) to help build, organize, and manage all aspects of nursery operations. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a startup environment, takes initiative, and wants to be instrumental in creating a profitable and scalable operation. This position will serve as the go-to person for daily operations, startup coordination, and execution. You will help determine what needs to be done, ensure it gets done, and communicate progress directly with ownership. You will work closely with the former owner (consultant) during the first year to gain knowledge and establish systems that support long-term success. We are seeking an energetic and detail-oriented Nursery Operations Manager to lead the startup's nursery activities with passion and precision. In this pivotal role, where your leadership will drive growth, optimize resource use, and uphold high standards of horticultural excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive individual eager to shape the future of a dynamic nursery environment, combining hands-on gardening expertise with strong operational management skills. What We're Looking For A self-starter who can take ownership of the role Someone who can bridge the gap between planning and execution A leader who ensures things get done—not just discussed Someone interested in long-term growth with the nursery Duties Assist in the startup and development of greenhouse and nursery operations Oversee irrigation systems, ensuring proper setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting to maintain optimal moisture levels. Work directly with consultant to learn plant production, layout, and operational systems Maintain inventory of plants, supplies, tools, and equipment; order materials as needed to support ongoing activities. Identify priorities and execute daily/weekly tasks to keep the project moving forward Oversee and coordinate greenhouse construction, setup, and organization Develop and implement processes for plant care, irrigation, inventory, and workflow Monitor plant health, watering schedules, fertilization, and seasonal needs Coordinate labor and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and correctly Report regularly to ownership on progress, challenges, and needs Qualifications Proven experience in growing plants, horticulture, greenhouse operations Strong knowledge of plant care, irrigation systems, and growing environments Ability to take initiative and work independently without constant direction Experience managing projects, people, or operations Mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting irrigation systems or other nursery equipment. Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently in a startup environment. Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions while maintaining high energy levels and attention to detail. Join us as we cultivate growth from the ground up! This role offers an inspiring chance to lead innovative nursery operations while developing your expertise in horticulture and management within a vibrant startup setting. Compensation & Benefits Competitive pay based on experience Opportunity for growth as the nursery expands Potential for long-term leadership role Schedule Full-time Seasonal flexibility required during peak periods To Apply Please submit your resume along with a brief summary of your experience in nursery, greenhouse, or operational roles. Please also include responses to the following: Describe your experience with nursery or greenhouse operations What interests you about helping build a nursery from the ground up? Describe a time you took ownership of a project and ensured it was completed We are looking for someone who wants to be part of building something from the ground up and take pride in creating a successful operation.

Pay:

$53,874.38 - $64,880.98 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid sick time Paid time off Vision insurance

Experience:

Nursery:

3 years (Required)

Operations:

3 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person