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Do you have a green thumb and a passion for plants? If so, a career as a nursery operator may be just for you! Nursery operators are responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing the activities of nursery staff who propagate, grow, and sell trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. Not only is this profession rewarding, but it also offers a competitive average salary of $39.44 per hour.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Nursery Operator

As a nursery operator, your duties will vary depending on the size and specialization of the nursery. Whether you run a small family business or a larger operation, your responsibilities may include:

• Selecting and determining the varieties and quantities of trees, shrubs, and perennials to grow.
• Establishing and managing the environmental conditions required for optimal plant growth, including setting planting and care schedules and programming irrigation control computers.
• Supervising staff in various tasks such as planting, transplanting, pruning, feeding, and spraying trees and shrubs.
• Identifying and effectively controlling pest and weed problems, utilizing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Ensuring the safe handling, use, storage, and disposal of pesticides.
• Operating a range of equipment, such as tree spades, pesticide sprayers, and skid steers.
• Developing marketing plans and providing customers with valuable information on plant selection and care.
• Managing inventory and ordering necessary equipment and supplies.
• Hiring, training, and supervising staff, while also overseeing equipment maintenance.
• Ensuring budget adherence and maintaining accurate records.

Skills Required for Success

To succeed as a nursery operator, you should possess certain traits and skills, including:

• Self-motivation and the ability to effectively lead and inspire others.
• Patience, as growing plants takes time and dedication.
• Attention to detail to ensure proper care and maintenance.
• Good decision-making skills to address challenges effectively.
• Computer literacy to manage irrigation control systems and other technology.
• No severe allergies to plants, tree pollen, pesticides, or other chemicals.

In addition, those working in retail operations must have excellent customer service skills and the ability to interact courteously and effectively with the public.

Career Path as a Nursery Operator

If this sounds like the perfect career for you, you'll be glad to know that nursery operators fall under various NOCs (National Occupational Classification) codes, including:

1. 2006 NOC: Nursery and Greenhouse Operators and Managers (8254)
2. 2006 NOC-S: Nursery and Greenhouse Operators and Managers (I014)
3. 2011 NOC: Managers in Horticulture (0822)
4. 2016 NOC: Managers in Horticulture (0822)
5. 2021 NOC: Managers in Horticulture (80021)

Embark on a fulfilling career as a nursery operator and watch your love for plants bloom into a successful profession!