Head Grower - Guelph, ON

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Job Type:  Fulltime, Permanent

Location:  Guelph, ON

Would you like to be a part of a revolution in agriculture in Canada?  If so, we would love to hear from you! 

At GoodLeaf Farms we are a proud Canadian company at the forefront of innovation, striving to grow food security for communities from coast to coast.  We are breaking ground in an industry that is quickly proving itself to be sustainable, not only environmentally but economically and socially as well.  We are focused on producing ultra-fresh greens, 365 days a year using no harsh chemicals, a carbon footprint that is just half that of a traditional farm and using less than 10% of the water traditionally used, to create a world where plants thrive!

Why work at GoodLeaf Farms?

It is our commitment to provide you with the work environment and tools necessary to be successful in your role. We hope that you will find your work here rewarding, challenging, and meaningful.

  • You will have the opportunity to take your career to the next level.  GoodLeaf is growing and we want you to grow along with us!

  • We have an entrepreneurial and inclusive spirit with the heart of a start-up.

  • We foster an environment of cooperation and communication.

  • We have competitive compensation and benefits

Every day at GoodLeaf Farms we get to help solve the challenge of food security for communities across Canada and do it in innovative ways that inspire healthy lifestyles.  We think that’s exciting and the best reason of all to join us!

What we are looking for

The Head Grower is responsible for managing and optimizing our controlled agriculture growing system in Guelph.  This role is pivotal in ensuring consistent, high-yield production of our crops while maintaining the highest quality standards. The Head Grower will possess a deep understanding of plant science, horticulture, and controlled environment agriculture and will have a proven track record of leading teams and driving operational excellence.

Role & Responsibilities

  • Oversee Growing Operations:  Manage all aspects of the growing process, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. 

  • Optimize Growing Systems:  Continuously analyze and refine growing parameters (light, temperature, humidity, CO2, nutrients, etc.) to maximize yield, quality, and efficiency. 

  • Quality Assurance:  Work with Quality Assurance to implement and maintain rigorous quality control standards, ensuring that all produce meets or exceeds company specifications.

  • Team Leadership:  Lead and develop a high-performing team of Horticulture Technicians, providing training, mentorship, and support.

  • Collaboration:  Work closely with Quality, Operations, and R&D teams to identify and implement process improvements, new crop varieties, and innovative growing techniques.  Support and demonstrate organizational culture.

  • Data Analysis:  Utilize data analytics to monitor crop performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.

  • Research and Development:  Work with Research & Development to conduct and oversee trials to evaluate new growing techniques, crop varieties, and technologies.

  • Continuous Improvement:  Identify and implement opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall system performance.

  • Additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Educational Requirements

  • A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.

  • Proven track record of achieving high commercial fruit or vegetable agriculture yields and quality.

  • Proven track record of individual and team development.

  • Experience advocating for corporate culture and key initiatives.

  • 1+ years' experience with hydroponic systems.

  • 1+ years' experience with controlled environment agriculture operations.

  • In-depth knowledge of agriculture lighting systems and their impact on plant growth.

  • Knowledge of plant pathology in controlled environments.

  • Experience leading the execution of agricultural trials and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.

  • Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

  • Must be able to travel across borders when and if required.

  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

  • Experience with report writing and MS suite of applications

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