AddressSituated on the banks of the Macquarie River near the township of Cressy, our client, is considered a leader in the production of high-quality berries. Working with and growing for some of the world’s biggest names, they specialise in growing a delicious range of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. They are known for their innovation, attention to detail, great working environment and industry best practice.
This highly respected family business operates a 68-hectare farm, in one of the best soft fruit production environments on the planet. With a team of over 500 people, each year they produce up to 2,750 tonnes for berries for the domestic market. Growing under protected cropping allows the business to operate in a highly sustainable way using the most advanced agronomical techniques and biological controls, maximising the opportunity to use natural growing methods.
Your Role
As the Irrigation Manager, you will lead the optimisation of water resources to ensure maximum crop yield and quality in our client’s high-tech protected cropping environment. You will collaborate closely with the technical team to create and execute detailed crop irrigation plans, integrating knowledge of varieties and other specific crop requirements.
Reporting to the Technical Manager, you will head up the team of irrigation specialists whilst fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment
Your responsibilities will include but not be limited to –
- Developing and implementing advanced irrigation programs, leveraging high-level protected cropping experience with Priva systems
- Scheduling and managing the fertigation program
- Maintaining and optimising irrigation infrastructure to ensure continuous production
- Conducting daily crop walks to monitor plant health and adjust irrigation settings based on environmental conditions
- Participating in weekly technical meetings, contributing to strategic decision-making and ensuring alignment with broader business goals
About You
To excel in this role, you should possess highly developed communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to bring out the best in people and gain full team support. You thrive in a collaborative environment and have a demonstrated track record of fostering positive relationships within your team and across functions.
Proactive and self-motivated, your passion for growing and optimising production environments is evident, complemented by your extensive experience managing protected cropping irrigation. Moreover, you are an organised and efficient multitasker with meticulous attention to detail.
To be considered for the role, it's important you can address the following criteria:
- Proven experience in high-level protected cropping with Priva systems and extensive horticultural irrigation management
- Experience with berries is highly advantageous; exposure to other protected crops such as tomatoes and cucurbits is also valued
- Strong leadership capabilities focused on team training and development
- Excellent analytical skills with a keen eye for detail
- Ability to make timely and effective decisions in dynamic, fast-paced environments
- Proficiency in computer literacy to support data-driven decision-making
Benefits
On offer for the successful candidate:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Professional growth opportunities
- Collaborative and supportive work environment
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the agriculture industry
Choose Agri Talent
Agri Talent provides permanent recruitment and executive search services exclusively for Australian and NZ agribusiness. Our extensive network connects high-calibre candidates to diverse and exciting roles with respected clients across Australia's agriculture sector.
For more information or a confidential discussion, please contact Marcela Rocha-Lima on 0467 063 ***.
