Grower Full Time

We are looking for a Grower who will lead and manage all aspects of our startup indoor vertical farm’s growing operation and ensure a high quality of production as well as commercial viability. The farm will grow products such as leafy greens, fruits, microgreens etc. using soil-less and/or other growing methodologies. The Grower will be responsible for all operational aspects including but not limited to climate control, crop scheduling, IPM, plant nutrition, product packaging and facility maintenance. The successful candidate will be able to work on their own initiative and as part of a team.

Additionally, to stay current with and improve upon various growing technologies, they will also be part of our ongoing research and development effort to continuously improve our growing techniques, yields and product quality.

Appropriate full-time industry experience in soil-less growing and research is required. This is an opportunity for a driven individual to assume a leadership position at a company operating in a rapidly growing, innovative and disruptive industry.

Duties and responsibilities

Include but are not limited to:

• Active involvement in delivering the company’s business plan and to ensure that team members are aware of and involved in delivering these aims as well.
• Build the company’s team of growers and their capabilities as well actively participate in and contribute to R&D so that the Company remains at the forefront of growing technology, with the objective of growing fresh produce of the highest quality consistently and viably.
• Develop health, safety, hygiene and cool chain processes and procedures to be followed for cultivation, harvesting and delivery of the produce to clients and ensure that these are followed.
• Develop and document cultivation best practices for the consistent production of high quality products.
• Develop planting plans/schedules, source seeds and other nutrients for plant growth.
• Manage the successful running of the farm, including the development of a day-to-day work plan; design and manage planning, production, packaging, storage, loading and unloading of fresh produce grown on site.
• Work within budget to ensure a regular supply of high quality produce with an eye to reducing waste and maintaining consistent high quality and production.
• Manage the farm in accordance with the company’s policies and procedures.
• Develop SOPs to provide a secure, safe, clean and tidy workspace for all with a weekly rota for site tidiness.
• Actively work towards obtaining and maintaining HAACP and other approvals and/or certifications that are necessary and required in the field.

Qualifications

• Relevant horticultural qualifications
• Proven experience of commercial growing, understanding and comfort with soil-less growing methodologies such as hydroponics and aeroponics
• Proven project management skills, working in partnership with other teams and delivering projects on time and on budget
• Good understanding of and ability to implement sustainable growing practices utilizing renewable energy and other methodologies
• Creating, using and maintaining growing systems and processes from seeding to delivery to the client
• Analyzing and interpreting written and numerical information including lab results
• Practical experience with:
  • Crop Management
  • Growing Equipment Maintenance
  • Greenhouse/Vertical Farm Operations
• Vegetable and fruit production experience, specifically greens, herbs, berries
• Strong planning and organizational skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written skills
• High attention to detail; highly organized
• People management skills and experience
• Strong knowledge of MS Office