Greenhouse Supervisor

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere 

Position Title: Greenhouse Supervisor 

Department: Horticulture

Supervisor: Horticulture Department Manager

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us:

At Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Description: 

The Greenhouse Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the successful maintenance, production and care of Nashville Zoo’s plant collections in a controlled greenhouse environment. This position contributes to the organization’s mission by maximizing plant health, ensuring proper horticulture stewardship, and maintaining efficient operations, sustainability standards, and safety compliances.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Plan, schedule and oversee daily greenhouse operations.
• Monitoring and supporting plant collection health and quality.
• Managing irrigation and fertilization schedules.
• Controlling pests and diseases.
• Maintaining environmental systems (temperature/ humidity).
• Conducting propagations (seed sowing, cuttings).
• Managing stock/ inventory of greenhouse.
• Monitor plant cycles, growth stages and production timelines.
• Ensure proper spacing, pruning, transplanting and harvesting practices.
• Operate and troubleshoot greenhouse control systems.
• Coordinate repairs with Facilities staff.
• Hire, train, supervise and evaluate greenhouse staff.
• Ensure proper use of tools, equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Foster a safe, efficient and educational work environment.

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, growth requirements, and propagation.
• Hands‑on experience with greenhouse production systems.
• Ability to diagnose plant stress, pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Knowledge of irrigation methods and water quality management.
• Understanding of fertilization programs and nutrient formulations.
• Ability to operate and maintain greenhouse environmental control systems.
• Basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to train, supervise, and motivate staff.
• Clear communication of expectations and procedures.
• Time management and scheduling skills.
• Inventory management (plants, supplies, chemicals, tools).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of chemical safety and pesticide regulations.
• Attention to detail in labeling, tracking, and compliance records.
• Ability to operate equipment such as skid-steer loader and telehandler forklift.

Education/ Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in horticulture, agriculture, or a related field is preferred.
• Training in horticulture, plant science, greenhouse management or agriculture is required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience is required.

Physical Responsibilities:

• Must be able to learn and remember tasks and processes, maintain focus and complete tasks independently.
• Responsible for making timely decisions in the context of a workflow and be able to professionally communicate with staff and guests.
• Must have the ability to complete tasks with speed in situations that ensure safety of staff, animals and guests.
• Required to remain alert and engaged while working. Also required to operate equipment and vehicles in a safe manner.
• This role involves working both indoors in temperature-controlled settings and outdoors year-round in typical Tennessee weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
• Must be comfortable navigating uneven terrain and working in environments with exposure to dust, allergens, and changing weather conditions.
• Requires the ability to safely move across slippery surfaces, operate in confined or tight spaces, and handle hazardous or toxic materials following safety protocols.
• Regular lifting and carrying materials up to 50 pounds is required.
• Ability to stand, bend, walk and perform repetitive tasks for long periods of time.

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.