Nursery Manager

Norman's Nursery has been in business for 77 years and is one of the largest wholesale growers of boxed trees and shrubs. We have over 1,000 acres across 8 different locations in California. As one of the largest wholesale nursery growers on the West Coast, we strive to be a leader in the industry.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Yard Manager with expertise in horticultural operations and proven experience managing production in a desert climate. Will oversee all aspects of the growing yard in the Coachella Valley.

Responsibilities

• This is a hands on position working outdoors, managing 100 acres of growing yard operations, including coordination of staff and contractors, as well as materials and equipment inventory.
• Conduct systematic product monitoring to diagnose and resolve issues related to fertilizers, irrigation, as well as pests, diseases, and weeds - maintaining a sufficient inventory of high-quality, healthy plants.
• Ensure that all equipment used in operations, such as forklifts and loaders, is properly maintained and serviced.
• Maintain inventory accuracy, communicate real time production status to sales and management, achieve revenue and profit targets, and effectively manage materials, labor, schedules, and costs.
• Build and develop high performing production teams through strategic hiring, comprehensive training, ongoing coaching, and performance management.
• Efficiently manage staffing levels, hiring employees as needed, and scheduling work hours to meet operational requirements, while monitoring and controlling overtime hours as necessary.
• Drive business growth through production excellence by delivering accurate production forecasts, refining schedules, maximizing plant quality and health, minimizing waste, and ensuring shipment readiness.
• Ensure a safe work environment for employees and customers by enforcing safety protocols and procedures, including proper equipment use, PPE compliance, and adherence to OSHA guidelines.
• Stay current on pesticide management regulations and ensure all production employees are properly trained and compliant with applicable worker protection standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of nursery operations, including plant development stages and care requirements.
• Knowledge of different types of plant diseases, fertilizers, chemicals, plant growth regulators (PGRs), herbicides, and plant rotation practices.
• Ability and understanding of systems to effectively irrigate plants using various irrigation methods.
• Minimum 5 years of strong leadership and supervisory abilities.
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail in managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Innovation mindset: Continuous improvement culture focused on high quality and efficiency.
• Knowledge of state agricultural regulations, safety standards, and pesticide application compliance.
• Experience with OSHA Safety Laws and Regulations.
• Familiarity with California wage and hour laws.
• The candidate must be able to work outdoors for extended periods of time in possibly extreme conditions, including rain, heat, sun, and wind.
• Qualified Pesticide Applicator license preferred.
• Proficiency in Windows based programs such as Excel, Word, and Office.

Job Type: Full time

Pay: $30 40/hour (Depending on experience)

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Holiday Pay