Position Summary
The Defoliation Team Lead is responsible for overseeing daily defoliation operations within the greenhouse while ensuring crop health, production efficiency, and team performance standards are met. This leadership role supports greenhouse employees by coordinating workflows, maintaining quality expectations, and promoting a safe and productive work environment. The Team Lead will work closely with greenhouse supervisors and crop management teams to ensure plants are properly maintained for optimal growth and harvest production.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and supervise daily defoliation activities within assigned greenhouse zones
Train team members on proper leaf removal techniques, plant handling, sanitation, and safety procedures
Monitor crop quality and identify issues related to plant health, pests, or disease
Ensure employees meet daily productivity and quality expectations
Assign daily tasks and adjust labor coverage based on production needs
Maintain greenhouse cleanliness and biosecurity standards
Communicate operational updates, concerns, and crop issues to supervisors and management
Assist with additional crop maintenance duties including pruning, lowering, trellising, and harvesting when needed
Promote a positive team environment focused on safety, accountability, and teamwork
Ensure all work is completed in compliance with company food safety and workplace safety standards
Qualifications
Previous greenhouse, agriculture, farming, or production leadership experience preferred
Strong leadership and communication skills
Ability to motivate and manage employees in a fast-paced environment
Comfortable working in warm and humid greenhouse conditions
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Ability to follow production schedules and adapt to changing priorities
Basic understanding of crop care and plant maintenance preferred
Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive movement
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds with or without assistance
Ability to work at heights using approved platforms or lifts
Comfortable working in greenhouse environments with varying temperatures and humidity
Schedule & Work Environment
Full-time position
Overtime and weekend work may be required during peak production periods
Fast-paced greenhouse environment focused on high-quality tomato production
