Job Description

Nursery Operations Manager Trainee – Nursery & Horticulture Operations

Are you an experienced horticulture or nursery professional ready to take the next step in your career? We are seeking a motivated, career-oriented Nursery Operations Manager Trainee to join a growing organization in the horticulture and nursery industry.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a strong background in nursery or horticulture operations who aspires to move into a management and leadership position.

The successful candidate will participate in a comprehensive training program designed to develop the operational, personnel management, and leadership skills necessary to eventually oversee full operations as a Nursery Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in an extensive training program covering nursery operations, production, inventory management, and overall nursery management.
• Learn and develop the skills necessary to lead and manage nursery personnel and a sales team.
• Assist with daily operations, workflow coordination, and production goals.
• Develop an understanding of operational efficiencies, quality control, and best practices.
• Build leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Work alongside experienced management to prepare for future advancement into a Nursery Operations Manager role.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• 4–5 years of experience in horticulture, nursery operations, plant production, or a related industry.
• Has experience working in nursery or horticulture sales or alongside a sales team.
• Demonstrated interest in developing into a leadership or management position.
• Strong work ethic, organizational skills, and willingness to learn.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt to different locations, teams, and operational environments.
• A long-term career mindset with a desire to grow within the organization.

Important Training Requirements

Candidates must be willing to relocate and travel throughout the training program. Flexibility and a willingness to gain experience in multiple locations are essential requirements for this opportunity.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary approximately $75,000–$85,000, depending on experience.
• Comprehensive insurance benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Structured management training and professional development.
• Long-term career advancement opportunities.

The Opportunity

This position is designed for someone who wants more than just another job. It offers the opportunity to build on an existing horticulture or nursery background, develop valuable management experience, and work toward a long-term leadership career.

If you have a passion for horticulture, experience in nursery operations, and the ambition to become a manager, we would like to hear from you! Please submit a current resume and optional cover letter. Only qualified applicants will be contacted for consideration.

For questions, please contact Kim Kavanaugh at 440-367-6025 or by email at kim.kavanaugh@gogpac.com

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.