Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Grower to join our horticultural team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about plant cultivation and possess a strong understanding of gardening practices, irrigation systems, and mechanical tools. This role offers an opportunity to work outdoors in a dynamic environment, contributing directly to the growth and health of our plants. The Grower will play a vital part in maintaining the quality and productivity of our crops, ensuring optimal conditions for healthy plant development.
About UP Vertical Farms
- UP Vertical Farms is a pioneering Canadian leader in sustainable indoor agriculture, combining over a decade of innovation in agri-technology, automation, and environmentally responsible food production. We grow premium leafy greens year-round in a fully controlled, soil-free environment that uses 99% less water and zero pesticides.
- Our mission is to redefine how fresh food is grown and delivered; locally, sustainably, and efficiently. Through advanced vertical farming systems, we supply consistently high-quality produce to grocers and consumers across Western Canada.
- As a growing and collaborative team, we take pride in our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community impact. At UP Vertical Farms, every role contributes to building a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient food system for the future
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- UP Vertical Farms is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that reflects and respects the communities we serve. Guided by the principles of Human Rights, we ensure that all individuals are treated with dignity and free from discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital or family status, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other protected characteristic. We believe that embracing different perspectives strengthens our team, drives innovation, and allows every employee to reach their full potential in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate daily grow operations, including seeding, germination, transplanting, cultivation, and harvesting of leafy greens within vertical farming systems.
- Lead and support grow team members during manual and semi-automated harvesting activities, ensuring produce is handled efficiently and without damage.
- Oversee quality control processes by inspecting crops at various stages of the growth cycle and ensuring harvested greens meet established quality and food safety standards.
- Monitor and manage transplanting activities, ensuring seedlings meet quality standards, are properly spaced, and receive appropriate nutrients and environmental conditions.
- Monitor, adjust, and verify environmental controls, including lighting, irrigation, nutrients, EC, pH, temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels, to optimize plant health and yield.
- Ensure grow equipment, tools, and systems are operating efficiently and safely; identify issues and coordinate corrective actions or maintenance as required.
- Maintain accurate electronic records related to crop performance, grow trials, sanitation, inventory, and operational checklists.
- Support R&D initiatives by assisting with grow trials, data collection, and implementation of approved process improvements.
- Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and Occupational Health & Safety requirements, including proper use of PPE and safe handling of chemicals.
- Oversee cleaning and sanitation of grow areas, including vertical grow modules, hydroponic systems, irrigation lines, and ancillary equipment, in accordance with established protocols.
- Assist with planning crop schedules and labour requirements, providing input to management on staffing and operational needs.
- Train, coach, and support grow staff on standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and best practices.
- Communicate issues, observations, and recommendations to the Senior Grower and management in a timely manner.
- Perform other related duties as required
Requirements
- Must be eligible to work in Canada.
- Valid Class 5 Driver’s Licence.
- Bachelors degree in Agriculture, plant science, environmental engineering, biology, or a closely related horticulture field
- Minimum 2–3 years of experience in horticulture, greenhouse operations, or controlled environment agriculture (CEA), preferably in a lead or supervisory capacity.
- Background or education in agriculture, horticulture, or a related field.
- Experience with hydroponic or vertical farming systems is an asset.
- Experience with growing, sanitation protocols, and record keeping is an asset.
- Forklift certification is an asset.
- Steel-toe safety footwear required
Work schedule:
- Full-time
- Rotational Shifts: Monday-Friday, Tuesday-Saturday
- Mornings, Days, evenings shifts or night shifts as needed.
- Shift times may vary depending on crop cycles and business requirements.
Pay: $65,000.00-$75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Pitt Meadows, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Able to work onsite 5 days per week?
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (required)
Experience:
- grower: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person
