What are the responsibilities and job description for the Woody/Shrub Grower position at BEST Human Capital & Advisory Group?
Why Willoway:
Willoway Nurseries, Inc. is one of the largest wholesale growers of quality nursery stock in the Midwest and ranks within the top 40 nationwide. Willoway encompasses approximately 550 acres of field production and 450 acres of container stock which includes 32 acres of climate-controlled greenhouses. We carry over 2,000 different plant varieties including shade trees, ornamental trees and shrubs, evergreens, perennials, and flowering annuals. To learn more about our history, mission, involvements, and products, visit our website at https://www.willowaynurseries.com/.
Position Summary:
As a Woody Shrub Grower at Willoway Nurseries, you will be responsible for overseeing the care, maintenance, and growth of woody shrubs. This hands-on role requires a proactive approach to water and nutrient management, environmental control, and pest management. Working closely with the Plant Healthcare Team, you will play a vital role in ensuring the quality and timely growth of woody shrubs to meet sales and quality standards. You will also collaborate closely with the Inventory, Sales, and Operations departments to align growing schedules with demand, assist with inventory accuracy, and meet production goals.
Reports To: Head Grower
Location: Huron, OH
Primary Responsibilities:
• Oversee irrigation cycles and manage pumphouses and irrigation systems.
• Handle nutrient needs through dry fertilizers, fertigation, and pH treatments.
• Control environmental conditions by adjusting heating and venting systems.
• Monitor pest pressures and collaborate with the Plant Healthcare Team.
• Document actions and crop history for consistency and compliance.
• Collaborate with Inventory, Sales, and Operations on plant availability, quality, and order timelines.
• Track and report plant readiness and availability with the Inventory team.
• Coordinate with Sales to meet customer requirements and adjust growing practices.
• Partner with Operations for efficient workflows and timely plant delivery.
• Train, lead, and manage section-specific growing staff.
• Work with the Physical Plant team to maintain structural integrity of growing areas and irrigation systems.
Qualifications:
• 3-5 years of experience or training in horticulture or a related agricultural field.
• Strong understanding of plant science, with a specific focus on woody shrubs.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems, nutrient applications, and environmental control systems.
Work Environment:
This role is predominantly outdoors (85-95%), requiring adaptability to work in varying weather conditions safely.
Schedule:
Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM, with rotational weekend shifts as needed.
Seasonal hours vary, with additional hours (40-50) typically required in spring.
Please apply for this position if you have the requisite horticultural grower and leadership experience within the horticultural, agricultural, and/or hydroponic industries. Please forward your resume and career objectives to pfranks@bhcagroup.com or hdowning@bhcagroup.com
All inquiries are confidentially protected and appreciated.
