Grower Support / Research and Development Specialist

Willoway Nurseries•Avon, OH

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

This role focuses on executing horticultural trials, supporting new plant introductions, and providing essential grower support. The specialist will be responsible for identifying plant stressors, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining trial gardens, and collaborating with various internal teams to drive continuous improvement in plant production and development.

Requirements

Associate’s degree or higher in Horticultural Science or a related field (required)
Working knowledge of plant growth, nutrition, and cultural practices
Familiarity with common plant pests, diseases, and environmental stressors
Strong ability to observe plants and notice subtle differences or changes
Ability to work independently and take ownership of assigned trials
Ability to stay organized and manage multiple priorities
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally across teams
Ability to work hands-on in outdoor and production environments

Nice To Haves

Experience in nursery, greenhouse, trial, or production environments preferred
Pesticide applicator license or ability to obtain one (preferred)

Responsibilities

Execute horticultural trials aligned with R&D priorities.
Support new plant introductions through coordinated trialing and evaluation.
Identify biotic and abiotic stressors through field observation, sampling, and external analysis.
Collect soil, media, and leachate samples to support fertility and substrate decisions.
Own trial data collection, accuracy, and organization.
Evaluate trial results and communicate findings to growers, R&D, and leadership.
Maintain clear documentation to support repeatability and decision-making.
Own maintenance and organization of Trial Section and trial garden spaces.
Develop trial gardens that support R&D goals and Sales & Marketing needs.
Ensure gardens are presentation-ready for internal use and tours.
Work closely with Grower Support, R&D, Sales, and Marketing teams.
Share insights in a clear, practical way that supports production decisions.
Support continuous improvement through observation and feedback.