Nursery & Greenhouse Managers
Description OES Code: 150310
Nursery Managers plan, organize, direct, control, or coordinate activities of workers engaged in propagating, cultivating, and harvesting horticultural specialties, such as trees, shrubs, flowers, mushrooms, and other plants. Work may involve training new employees in gardening techniques, inspecting facilities for signs of disrepair, and delegating repair duties to staff.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $8.98
25th Percentile $9.97
50th Percentile $14.75
75th Percentile $21.64

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Horticulturists generally work a 40-hour week. Although there are seasonal aspects to some types of jobs, most Horticulturists work year-round.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 9,330
Projected Employment 2008 12,360
Percent Change 1998-2008 32.5%
Separations 1998-2008 2,390

Employment Trends by California County

Advancement
Most advancement is to positions in management and supervision. Horticulturists specializing in the development and use of products to assist growers may promote to marketing positions. Specialists in plant types may manage plant-growing operations or retail outlets such as nurseries. Some become self-employed as growers or as consultants in the use of plants. Many government positions for horticulturists provide promotional opportunities as supervisor or department manager. Colleges and universities have career ladders leading to full professorship for those with advanced degrees.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Part-time or summer job experience often leads to full time jobs with the same employer. Job seekers interested in Plant Inspector positions with the federal government should contact the United States Department of Agriculture. Those interested in working for the State can contact the California Department of Food and Agriculture. University horticultural departments maintain placement services for local and statewide jobs. The California Employment Development Department may also be a source of employment opportunities for Horticulturists

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Employers hiring professional Horticulturists prefer to hire those with a bachelor's degree in horticulture or a closely related agricultural science. Specialized course work or prior experience usually determines the field of horticulture entered. A number of public universities and colleges in California grant bachelor degrees in horticulture with two of the campuses offering graduate studies. Over half of the community colleges throughout the State offer associate degrees in horticulture.

High school students preparing for college horticultural study should take chemistry, biology, botany and other recommended mathematics and science courses. Agricultural courses if available would also be valuable. Those considering a career in this field might also want to tour the Luther Burbank Home and Gardens in Santa Rosa. Visitors can see the gardens, free of charge, every day of the year.

References
California Occupational Guide: #396

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)