How to Be Greenhouse Production Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 22, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Greenhouse Production Manager is responsible for managing the efficient production of plants and other products within a greenhouse environment. The success of their role is largely dependent on the ability to set efficient production goals, and managing resources to achieve these goals. This includes overseeing the labor force, monitoring crop production, ensuring the quality of output meets the standards, and implementing strategies to maximize profits.

The Production Manager is also responsible for ensuring that the greenhouse environment is conducive to optimal plant growth, which requires knowledge of greenhouse temperature, humidity, light levels, and airflow. Poor management of these factors can lead to reduced crop yields, increased costs, and decreased profits.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. A bachelors degree in greenhouse management, horticulture, or a related field is typically required to become a greenhouse production manager. Coursework may include plant physiology, greenhouse operations, entomology, and soil science.
Obtain Work Experience. Work experience in a greenhouse setting is essential for this profession. This experience can be obtained through internships, volunteer work, or part-time employment.
Complete On-the-Job Training. On-the-job training is typically required when hired as a greenhouse production manager. This training usually covers plant care and the use of greenhouse equipment and technology.
Obtain Certification. While it is not required, obtaining certification as a Certified Greenhouse Production Manager can help demonstrate expertise and proficiency in this field. To obtain certification, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in greenhouse production and pass an exam.
Stay Current on Industry Information. To remain competitive and successful, greenhouse production managers must stay up-to-date on industry trends and regulations. This can be accomplished by attending conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field.

The ability to keep up to date and competent as a Greenhouse Production Manager is essential in order to maintain a successful production system. This requires staying informed of current trends, industry advancements, and any related changes in regulations that may affect the operation of greenhouses. staying knowledgeable on best practices for greenhouse management, such as crop rotation, pest control, irrigation, and nutritional requirements is necessary to ensure that plants remain healthy and productive.

In order to stay competent, it is important to attend educational seminars and workshops, regularly read industry-related publications and websites, and consult with other professionals in the field. By doing so, Greenhouse Production Managers can stay informed about the latest developments and trends in the industry, which will ultimately enable them to make informed decisions that will lead to a successful and productive greenhouse production system.

You may want to check Greenhouse Project Manager, Greenhouse Field Technician, and Greenhouse Automation Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Oversee the daily operations of a greenhouse production facility, including staff, scheduling, budgeting and inventory control.
Develop and implement production plans to maximize efficiency and yield.
Monitor and adjust environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, light and ventilation to ensure optimal plant growth.
Monitor changes in plant health and take corrective action when needed.
Order fertilizers, soil, growing media, and other supplies as needed.
Setup, calibrate and maintain greenhouse monitoring systems.
Provide training and instruction to staff on the proper care and handling of plants.
Monitor and evaluate employee performance and provide feedback.
Maintain records of daily activities and production results.
Troubleshoot problems as they arise and take corrective action as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of plant biology and horticulture
Strong organizational and management skills
Ability to plan, prioritize and manage multiple tasks
Ability to troubleshoot and problem solve
Knowledge of greenhouse maintenance, including pest and disease control
Knowledge of soil, irrigation and fertilization techniques
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Computer proficiency with software such as Microsoft Office, QuickBooks
Ability to motivate and lead a team
Ability to adhere to health and safety regulations

Effective communication is one of the most important skills for a Greenhouse Production Manager to possess. Effective communication allows the manager to ensure that all of the tasks that need to be completed in the greenhouse are done properly, as well as ensure that everyone involved in the production process is on the same page. by communicating effectively, the manager can clearly articulate expectations and hold others accountable for their work.

effective communication helps the manager foster relationships with suppliers and customers, which is essential for success in greenhouse production. Finally, having good communication skills allows the manager to quickly identify and resolve any problems that arise in the greenhouse production process, which can help minimize losses and maximize profitability.

Greenhouse Production Assistant, Greenhouse Irrigation Technician, and Greenhouse Quality Control Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have managing greenhouses?
What systems are you familiar with for managing a greenhouse?
How would you prioritize tasks and manage workflow in a greenhouse production environment?
How do you ensure that the greenhouse environment is optimized for efficient plant growth?
How do you manage pests, diseases and other environmental issues in a greenhouse?
What strategies do you employ to ensure that the plants are healthy and producing at their optimal levels?
How have you increased production output in previous positions?
What processes have you implemented to improve the efficiency of the greenhouse production process?
How do you develop and maintain good relationships with suppliers?
What strategies do you use to motivate employees to work hard and be productive in the greenhouse production environment?

Common Tools in Industry

Climate Control System. Automated system used to regulate temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors within the greenhouse (eg: Priva Climate Control System).
Watering System. Automated system used to irrigate plants within the greenhouse (eg: Rain Bird Irrigation System).
Lighting System. Automated system used to provide the optimal light levels for plants within the greenhouse (eg: Growlux LED Lighting Solutions).
Plant Nutrition Management Software. Software used to monitor and manage the nutrition of plants within the greenhouse (eg: PlantSnap Plant Nutrition Management Software).
Pest Control Software. Software used to identify, monitor and manage pests within the greenhouse (eg: AgriPest Pest Control Software).
Harvest Management Software. Software used to track and manage harvesting schedules and produce yields (eg: FarmLogic Harvest Management Software).
Greenhouse Monitoring System. Automated system used to monitor the greenhouse environment and alert the Production Manager when any changes occur (eg: AgroSense Greenhouse Monitoring System).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Nursery & Landscape Association
American Society for Horticultural Science
International Association for Food Protection
Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers
American Society of Agronomy
CropLife America
American Floral Endowment
American Society for Horticulture Science
National Greenhouse Manufacturers Association
U. S. Composting Council

We also have Greenhouse Horticulture Technician, Greenhouse Installer, and Greenhouse Maintenance Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Greenhouse. A structure with controlled environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and light, and used for the production of crops and other plants.
Plant Propagation. The process of producing new plants from existing ones, usually by cuttings, grafting, or other techniques.
Soil Preparation. The process of preparing soil for planting, including tilling, amending with organic matter, and fertilizing.
Crop Rotation. The practice of growing different crops in the same area in successive years in order to maintain soil fertility and reduce pest infestations.
Irrigation. The artificial application of water to land for the purpose of providing sufficient moisture for plant growth.
Fertilization. The application of plant nutrients to soil or to the foliage of plants, in order to promote growth and increase yields.
Pest Management. The practice of controlling or eliminating pests such as insects, weeds, and diseases, in order to protect crops and stored products.
Plant Nutrition. The practice of providing plants with essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other minerals in order to promote growth and increase yields.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Greenhouse Production Manager?

The primary role of a Greenhouse Production Manager is to oversee the day-to-day operations of a greenhouse, ensuring production and quality standards are met while managing personnel, resources, and budgets.

What skills are necessary for success in this position?

A successful Greenhouse Production Manager will possess strong leadership, organizational, and problem solving skills, as well as knowledge of horticulture and greenhouse production techniques.

What is the typical salary range for a Greenhouse Production Manager?

The typical salary range for a Greenhouse Production Manager can vary depending on location and experience, but typically falls between $45,000 and $70,000 per year.

How many years of experience are typically required to become a Greenhouse Production Manager?

It is common for employers to require at least 3-5 years of related experience for a Greenhouse Production Manager position.

What kind of qualifications are employers looking for in a Greenhouse Production Manager?

Employers typically look for applicants with a Bachelor's degree in horticulture, plant science, or a related area as well as relevant experience in greenhouse operations.