What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nursery Production Manager - Head Grower position at Total Civil Construction & Engineering, LLC?
Overview
Accokeek Nursery is a new 950‑acre operation in Brandywine, Maryland, specializing in large‑scale production of native trees, shrubs, and perennials for reforestation, restoration, and wholesale markets.
We are hiring a Nursery Production Manager (Head Grower) to lead the development and execution of our production systems. This role plays a key part in building the nursery from the ground up, with a focus on field‑grown trees (0.5”–1” caliper), container shrubs, and plug production. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on grower with leadership experience who can manage daily operations while driving long‑term production planning.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all nursery production activities across field and container operations, including planting, cultivation, pruning y cosecha.
- Develop and manage production plans for field‑grown native trees (liners to 1” caliper), container shrubs (1–3 gal), and plug/perennial production.
- Oversee irrigation systems, including scheduling, maintenance, and efficiency improvements.
- Supervise and train nursery staff, including field crews and propagation teams.
- Coordinate field operations across a 950‑acre property to optimize land use and production efficiency.
- Monitor plant health and implement proactive pest, disease, and nutrient management strategies.
- Maintain production standards aligned with reforestation and restoration project requirements.
- Collaborate with ownership and sales to align production with market demand and contract needs.
- Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and agricultural best practices.
Requirements
- At least 2 years of experience in nursery production, horticulture, or agriculture with hands‑on growing skills.
- Experience with field‑grown tree production (B&B or liner‑based) strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of irrigation systems, soil management, and plant nutrition.
- Familiarity with native plants or reforestation/restoration markets is a plus.
- Proven ability to lead teams and manage daily outdoor production operations.
- Strong organizational and planning abilities for large‑scale nursery work.
- Comfortable working outdoors in all weather and performing physical tasks.
- Ability to safely operate equipment and use hand and mechanical tools.